Hotelier of the Month: Ranjeet Rajebhosale
"My long-term goals for Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach are centered around transforming the hotel to change how people perceive Pattaya as a destination."
Ranjeet Y. Rajebhosale, General Manager of Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach and our Hotelier of the Month. With 29 years in hospitality, Ranjeet started at Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris before joining Hyatt in 2002. He has since excelled at Hyatt hotels in six countries, most recently overseeing a successful renovation and rebranding at Hyatt Regency Liberation Square Chongqing, China.
A graduate of the Indian Institute of Hotel Management, Ranjeet's career highlights include roles at Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris and various Hyatt properties. Now, he brings his wealth of experience to Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, continuing his legacy of excellence in hospitality.
Throughout your impressive 29-year career in hospitality, you’ve worked in various countries and capacities. What have been some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from your international experiences?
During my 29-year career in the hospitality industry, I have been fortunate enough to work in various countries and roles, which has given me invaluable insights. One of the most important lessons I have learned is how crucial it is to respect and adapt to different cultures. To succeed, it is essential to understand the unique cultural context of each destination.
Working in different capacities has equipped me with the skills to navigate multicultural and dynamic teams. Every experience has come with its challenges, but overcoming them in diverse cultural settings has allowed me to learn the importance of flexibility and open-mindedness when it comes to approaching tasks and problem-solving.
Furthermore, I have come to realize that true success comes from aligning personal goals with team objectives. We can achieve remarkable outcomes and create memorable guest experiences by fostering collaboration and synergy within the team.
How has your leadership style evolved over the years, and what core principles do you believe are essential for effective leadership in the hospitality industry today?
Over the years, my leadership style has evolved significantly through diverse experiences gained from various locations and assignments. Each opportunity has provided me with invaluable lessons that have contributed to my leadership growth.
One core principle that I firmly believe in is demonstrating care and respect for people and their cultures. Building genuine relationships and fostering a supportive environment is also essential.
Additionally, perseverance has been a guiding principle throughout my journey. The ability to persevere through challenges and setbacks while maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for achieving success in this dynamic industry.
Effective communication is another cornerstone of effective leadership. Clear and transparent communication ensures alignment towards common goals and facilitates teamwork and collaboration.
Furthermore, having a clear vision and a 'people-first' approach are fundamental principles for effective leadership in the hospitality industry today. By prioritizing the well-being and development of team members, leaders can inspire loyalty, motivation, and exceptional performance.
Transitioning from Hyatt Regency Liberation Square Chongqing to Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach must have presented unique challenges and opportunities. Could you share a particularly memorable challenge or achievement during this transition?
During the transition from Hyatt Regency Liberation Square Chongqing to Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, there were unique challenges and opportunities. One of the most memorable challenges was navigating the two years in China during the COVID-19 pandemic. Transitioning to Thailand as the country emerged from COVID restrictions added an interesting dynamic to the experience.
One of the key challenges we faced during the transition was the shortage of labor and talent acquisition, especially in the aftermath of COVID. However, we tackled this challenge with a focused approach to find and retain talent.
Opening a hotel during the post COVID presented its own set of challenges. Despite these obstacles, we were able to successfully open the hotel and deliver a luxury experience that aligned with the Hyatt brand. Witnessing our efforts pay off and establishing Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach in the market was immensely rewarding.
After nearly three decades in the industry, what continues to drive your passion for hospitality, and how do you keep yourself motivated and inspired?
After working in the hospitality industry for almost three decades, I remain passionate about it, thanks to my love for travel and exploring new destinations, cultures, and cuisines. I find inspiration in the idea of bringing elements of these experiences into the hospitality realm, whether it's through art, cuisine, or cultural immersion. I am driven to introduce guests to the richness of these experiences. Travel has a unique ability to broaden one's horizons and expose them to new worlds and cultural environments. I am motivated by the opportunity to evolve and present these experiences within the luxury hotel setting. It's this creativity that keeps me passionate about the hospitality industry.
What are your long-term goals for Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, and how do you envision the hotel evolving over the next few years?
My long-term goals for Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach are centered around transforming the hotel to change how people perceive Pattaya as a destination. I want to position it prominently within the luxury market and establish it as the foremost luxury and lifestyle destination. I believe this will align seamlessly with the development of the country's Eastern Economic Corridor. Over the next few years, the hotel will evolve to become a beacon of luxury hospitality, offering unparalleled experiences that captivate and inspire guests from all over the world.