Interview with Lakshmi Shridhar on Women’s Leadership and Innovation in the Hospitality Industry

Lakshmi Shridhar is a seasoned hospitality professional who has successfully navigated the industry’s complexities while championing gender inclusivity and innovation. With a passion for creating memorable guest experiences and fostering a supportive work environment, she has been instrumental in mentoring women and promoting leadership opportunities in hospitality. In this interview, she shares her insights on leadership, empowering women in the sector, and the future of hospitality.

Lakshmi Shridhar, what inspired you to pursue a career in the hospitality industry, and how have you navigated challenges along the way?

Lakshmi Shridhar: My hospitality journey was driven by a passion for creating memorable experiences and fostering connections with people. Over the years, I have faced various challenges, but I have consistently relied on my strategic acumen and adaptability to overcome them. By leading by example and showcasing women’s capabilities, I have successfully navigated gender biases and stereotypes in the industry.

As a woman in a leadership role, how do you approach mentoring and supporting other women in their career advancement within the hospitality sector?

Lakshmi Shridhar: I prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where women can balance their career aspirations with personal responsibilities. I involve them in decision-making processes, recognize their contributions, and provide one-on-one counseling sessions to offer guidance and support. This approach helps them navigate their professional journey with confidence and purpose.

What strategies do you employ to ensure efficient and smooth day-to-day management of hotel and resort operations?

Lakshmi Shridhar: I emphasize a culture of delegation of authority, trusting team members to make decisions and take ownership of their roles. This approach encourages autonomy, minimizes micromanagement, and fosters an agile and responsive team that can adapt quickly to challenges and opportunities.

How do you approach marketing strategies in the hospitality industry to appeal to diverse audiences while promoting gender equality and empowerment?

Lakshmi Shridhar: I believe in highlighting successful women in leadership roles and showcasing their contributions to the industry. Through inclusive and diverse representation in marketing campaigns, we can inspire change toward a more inclusive and equitable hospitality landscape.

What measures do you take in human resources to foster a supportive and inclusive work environment for women, addressing issues like equal pay and career advancement?

Lakshmi Shridhar: We host monthly women-focused forum meetings and closely monitor salary comparisons to ensure equitable compensation. Additionally, we offer comprehensive leadership development programs, flexible work arrangements, and diversity awareness training to support women’s career advancement and create a more inclusive workplace.

What innovations or advancements do you foresee in the hospitality industry that could further empower women in roles like housekeeping, marketing, and human resources?

Lakshmi Shridhar: I envision a future where technology enhances efficiency and empowers women in various roles. For instance, robotic assistants in housekeeping can handle mundane tasks, allowing staff to focus on personalized service. In marketing, data analytics and AI will play a crucial role in creating inclusive campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. By staying ahead of industry trends and fostering inclusivity, we will pave the way for female leadership to thrive in the hospitality sector.