Hitesh Girdhar
Hotel General Manager
Gurgaon,HR
Summary
Dynamic hospitality leader and customer-oriented Geneeral Manager with over 22 years of experience in managing high-end hotels and resorts. Specializing in handling operations and sales for pre-opening and rebranding hotels, ensuring seamless transitions and successful market positioning. Proven track record in reversing negative sales trends, optimizing resources, and maximizing profits. Currently officiating as General Manager at Caspia Hotel New Delhi, achieving significant improvements in guest satisfaction, revenue growth, and operational efficiency.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
Officiating General Manager
Caspia Hotel New Delhi (SAMHI Hotels Ltd.)
3 2022 - Current
- Spearheaded transformative initiatives as Officiating General Manager, ensuring seamless operations and exceptional guest experiences
- Boosted ADR by 40% in 1.5 years through strategic sales and marketing, reversing negative sales trends
- Achieved profitability by managing budgets and implementing cost-control measures, consistently surpassing financial targets
- Reversed high attrition, reducing employee turnover from 50% in 2022 to 10% in 2023 by recruiting, training, and mentoring a motivated team.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Increased overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
- Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Maximized operational excellence mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
- Reduced budgetary expenditures by effectively negotiating contracts for more advantageous terms.
- Supervised creation of exciting promotional displays to catch attention of hotel guests.
Asset Manager/Director of Sales
SAMHI Hotels
10.2017 - 02.2022
- Conducted comprehensive market research and analysis to identify potential sites for new hotel projects, aligning with the group's investment objectives
- Evaluation of market dynamics, competitor performance, and emerging trends to assess the feasibility and profitability of new projects within the portfolio
- Collaborated closely with the investments team to analyze financial projections, conduct due diligence, and make informed decisions on potential acquisitions or developments
- Developed strategic solutions and conducting revenue and cost analysis to optimize financial performance across the portfolio, including Gross Operating Profit (GOP) and Earnings Before Interest, Depreciation, Taxes, and Amortization (EBIDTA)
- Established and maintained strong relationships with stakeholders, including property owners, developers, and brand partners, to facilitate successful project execution and ongoing asset management
- Participated in cross-functional teams to support project development, investment analysis, and strategic planning initiatives, contributing valuable insights and expertise
- Provided proactive guidance and direction for sales and marketing efforts to drive revenue growth and enhance market positioning for the group's hotels
- Ensured seamless operations during transitions for newly acquired assets, maintaining guest satisfaction and brand standards throughout the process
- Lead profit center operations for the group's hotels, implementing effective measures to achieve business targets and enhance overall profitability and growth
- Played role of General Manager / Director of sales for newly acquired hotels till rebranding.
- Streamlined operations, optimizing the use of technology for tracking and reporting performance metrics.
- Reduced operating expenses by implementing cost-saving measures across multiple properties under management.
- Collaborated with legal teams to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
- Proactively identified areas for process improvement, driving increased efficiency throughout the organization.
Director of Sales and Marketing (Portfolio)
ACCOR Hotels
07.2015 - 10.2017
- Spearheaded sales for 11 midscale and economy hotels portfolio.
- Specialized in opening of new hotels, orchestrating seamless launches to maximize market impact and ensure a strong start
- Streamlined internal processes for improved efficiency within the Sales and Marketing department, reducing costs while maintaining productivity levels.
- Analyzed sales and marketing data for improved strategies.
- Mentored junior staff members on best practices for successful sales techniques, resulting in higher close rates across the team.
- Developed comprehensive sales plans for business growth, resulting in significant market share expansion.
- Secured major client contracts by delivering persuasive presentations that highlighted the value of our products and services.
- Drove revenue growth by identifying new business opportunities and expanding client relationships.
- Oversaw contract negotiations, fostering beneficial partnerships with vendors and external stakeholders.
- Established and optimized sales distribution channels, ensuring comprehensive coverage and accessibility for potential clients
- Strategically hired and mentored a high-performing sales team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous growth
- Formulated and executed comprehensive sales strategies aligned with corporate objectives, driving consistent growth and market share expansion for the Formule1 brand
- Conducted regular performance reviews and sales analysis, identifying areas for improvement and implementing actionable plans to drive continuous sales enhancement
- Collaborated closely with revenue management teams to develop dynamic pricing strategies, ensuring competitive pricing while maximizing profitability
- Cultivated and maintained strong relationships with key clients, industry partners, and corporate accounts, fostering a network of valuable business connections to drive loyalty and repeat business
- Oversaw the formulation and execution of marketing initiatives to enhance brand visibility and increase market penetration, contributing to the brand's recognition and positioning in the market
- Proactively monitored market trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences, providing insights and recommendations to support the development of innovative sales and marketing approaches
- Participated in industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities, representing the Formule1 brand and establishing a strong presence within the hospitality community.
- Contributed to company growth by securing repeat business from satisfied clients.
Director of Sales
GHS (UK) (Sales Partner With Travel Click)
10.2013 - 3 2015
- Demonstrated proficiency in outbound hotel marketing, effectively promoting European, American, Vietnam, and Maldives hotels to the Indian market
- Utilized Agency 360 reports and Hotelligence information to strategically target agencies, resulting in enhanced business for GHS client hotels in India and the Middle East
- Successfully identified and secured new clients with significant business potential, consistently achieving annual revenue targets as agreed with each property
- Collaborated closely with the Hotel Development team to sign up new hotels in India and the Middle East (Dubai), offering GHS services as a powerful sales solution for hotels seeking international sales presence
- Throughout the tenure, demonstrated expertise in commercial leadership, business development, and strategic planning, contributing to GHS's prominence in the global hospitality landscape.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Monitored and coordinated workflows to optimize resources.
- Spearheaded the adoption of cutting-edge sales tools and technologies designed to enhance team productivity and streamline workflow processes.
- Connected with prospects through trade shows, cold calling and local-area networking.
Director of Sales and Business Development
TUX HOTELS (A SHIPRA GROUP VENTURE)
10.2012 - 10.2013
- Conducted Market feasibility study for new projects / hotel development Developing new brand of mid segment hotels
- Set up Hotel team (manpower planning / budget allocations/training) for new hotels
- Launched 2 hotels in north India.
- Conducted market research to identify emerging trends and opportunities for growth within the industry.
- Led team to exceed sales targets through effective coaching, performance management, and motivation techniques.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing strategic sales plans and forecasts.
- Held one-on-one meetings with sales team members to identify selling hurdles and offered insight into best remedy.
Associate Head of Sales
THE LEELA PALACES, Hotels & Resorts
03.2012 - 10.2012
- Leisure market sales for all Leela hotels - formulated strategy for development of domestic market - direct engagement with 300+ Inbound and 900 + domestic tour operators across India.
- Fostered lasting partnerships with complementary businesses within the industry, creating mutually beneficial referral networks and promoting collaborative growth.
- Formulated customized solutions for complex client challenges, demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills while maintaining focus on company goals and objectives.
- Streamlined sales processes for improved efficiency, enabling faster response times to customer inquiries.
- Participated in industry conferences as a representative of the company, generating interest among prospective clients through engaging conversations and demonstrations of products or services offered.
- Secured key client accounts through effective relationship-building and persuasive communication skills.
- Established a strong sales culture within the organization, fostering a competitive yet supportive environment for all team members.
- Mentored junior sales representatives, contributing to their professional development and success within the company.
- Consistently serviced accounts to maintain active contacts and continuously promote profitable offerings.
Associate Head of Sales - North/ Regional Business Head
Citrus Hotels
10.2009 - 03.2012
- Launched regional Sales Office in Delhi
- Introduction of brand to leisure - domestic and inbound market in North India - selling Goa, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, sriperumbudur and Pune.
- Streamlined sales processes, resulting in enhanced efficiency and increased productivity.
- Developed strong client relationships for improved customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Optimized pricing strategies by monitoring competitor activities, analyzing market trends, and considering internal cost structures for profitability maximization.
- Mentored junior sales staff, fostering professional growth and contributing to overall team success.
- Negotiated contracts with major clients, securing long-term partnerships that generated significant revenue streams.
- Delivered engaging presentations at industry events, showcasing company offerings and attracting prospective clients.
- Established a robust pipeline of prospects through diligent prospecting efforts, leading to consistent increases in new business opportunities.
- Regularly exceeded monthly targets for both individual and team-wide performance benchmarks.
Associate Director of Sales
THE Grand Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
11.2008 - 10.2009
- Successfully re-launched the hotel with all new enthusiastic approach
- Set up sales and distribution (GDS/OTAs) for hotel.
- Exceeded quarterly quotas consistently by employing effective time management strategies and prioritizing high-value prospects.
- Formulated customized solutions for complex client challenges, demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills while maintaining focus on company goals and objectives.
- Established a strong sales culture within the organization, fostering a competitive yet supportive environment for all team members.
- Developed accurate forecasting models to predict future sales trends, allowing for proactive adjustments to business strategy.
- Streamlined sales processes for improved efficiency, enabling faster response times to customer inquiries.
- Negotiated profitable contracts with major clients, ensuring long-term revenue growth and stability.
- Established pricing strategies to maintain competitive pricing and maximize profits.
- Managed team of sales representatives, providing guidance, coaching and support.
- Consistently serviced accounts to maintain active contacts and continuously promote profitable offerings.
Sales Manager
ACCOR HOTELS
12.2006 - 11.2008
- Introduction of HICC and Novotel Hyderabad and Novotel Hyderabad Airport to Delhi NCR
- Focus on MICE business from Corporate, PCOs and leisure segment
- Major engagement with Schneider, Samsung, GE and Maruti - nurtured these accounts for regular events at HICC.
- Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
- Resolved customer issues quickly to close deals and boost client satisfaction.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
- Maintained relationships with customers and found new ones by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
- Met with clients, delivering presentations, and educating on product and service features and offerings.
- Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
- Managed key accounts with strategic planning and relationship building, resulting in increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
- Closed lucrative sales deals using strong negotiation and persuasion skills.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities, leading to expansion into profitable territories.
- Consistently met or exceeded quarterly sales targets through diligent effort and persistence in closing deals.
- Aligned company goals with customer outcomes and increased satisfaction by automating contact management systems.
- Liaised with sales, marketing, and management teams to develop solutions and accomplish shared objectives.
- Achieved established KPI for company, regional team and individual performance through teamwork and focus on customers.
Sales Account Manager
THE LEELA PALACES, Hotels & Resorts
12.2004 - 12.2006
- Attained highest sales by a single sales resource for 2 hotels - recognized and rewarded
- Spearheaded 4 hotels leisure sales at Delhi regional sales office.
- Achieved higher client satisfaction ratings through consistent communication and problem resolution.
- Negotiated prices, terms of sale and service agreements.
- Utilized strong analytical skills to track sales performance, making adjustments as needed to meet targets.
- Consistently exceeded quotas by leveraging an extensive network of contacts within target industries.
- Organized joint sales calls with current customers and outside vendors.
- Developed a reputation as a trusted sales personnel among clients by demonstrating exceptional knowledge of our hotels and services.
- Attended industry shows, conventions, and other meetings with primary mission of expanding market opportunities.
Assistant Sales Manager
Hotel Hindusthan International
07.2003 - 12.2004
- Developed strong client relationships for repeat business and increased referrals.
- Achieved sales targets consistently by driving daily sales activities and managing the sales pipeline effectively.
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify areas for improvement in service delivery.
- Assisted sales team with completing customer transactions and managing issues.
- Trained new associates in successful sales and performance strategies.
Sales Executive
FARIYAS Hotel, Mumbai
06.2002 - 06.2003
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Developed sales strategy based on research of consumer buying trends and market conditions.
- Negotiated and closed profitable sales contracts with new and existing customers to increase loyalty and retention.
- Boosted sales revenue by cultivating strong client relationships and implementing effective sales strategies.
- Researched sales opportunities and possible leads to exceed sales goals and increase profits.
Management Trainee (Hotel Operations)
Historic Resort Hotels
01.2001 - 05.2002
- Gained knowledge of company policies, protocols and processes.
- Developed problem-solving abilities through hands-on experience with real-life business scenarios.
- Strengthened leadership skills by overseeing projects and guiding team members towards successful outcomes.
- Used company reports to analyze sales, gross profit and inventory activities.
- Improved management skills by participating in rigorous training programs and workshops.
- Mastered industry-specific software tools for efficient data analysis, reporting, and decision-making purposes.
- Handled day-to-day guest queries with exposure in Front Office Operations.
- Maintained high-quality standards in all aspects of work, ensuring customer satisfaction at every touchpoint within the business journey.
- Acted with integrity, honesty and knowledge to promote culture of company.
Education
Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management - Asset Management
Cornell University
01.2018 -
Advanced Revenue Program, Hotel Revenue Management - undefined
Cornell University
01.2012 -
MBA - Sales And Marketing
Institute Of Management Technology, Ghaziabad
Online 04.2005 -
Bachelor in Tourism Studies -
IGNOU
01.2003 -
Diploma in Hotel Management -
National Council - PUSA, (IHM GWALIOR)
Gwalior 01.2000 -
Skills
Hotel Operations
Strategic Planning & New Initiatives
Business Development
Profit & Loss Management
Cost Control & Profit Maximization
Sales and Marketing
Communication & Negotiation Skills
Vendor Management/Service Delivery
Training & Development
Operations Management
Team Leadership
Customer Relationship Management
Personal Information
Date of Birth: 07/24/79
Accomplishments
- Achieved 40% growth in ADR 1.5 years through strategic sales and marketing initiatives.
- Improved guest satisfaction and reduced employee turnover from 50% to 10% within a year.
- Elevated hotel ranking to No. 17 on TripAdvisor and restaurant ranking within the top 100 in New Delhi.
Timeline
Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management - Asset Management
Cornell University
01.2018 -
Asset Manager/Director of Sales
SAMHI Hotels
10.2017 - 02.2022
Director of Sales and Marketing (Portfolio)
ACCOR Hotels
07.2015 - 10.2017
Director of Sales
GHS (UK) (Sales Partner With Travel Click)
10.2013 - 3 2015
Director of Sales and Business Development
TUX HOTELS (A SHIPRA GROUP VENTURE)
10.2012 - 10.2013
Associate Head of Sales
THE LEELA PALACES, Hotels & Resorts
03.2012 - 10.2012
Advanced Revenue Program, Hotel Revenue Management - undefined
Cornell University
01.2012 -
Associate Head of Sales - North/ Regional Business Head
Citrus Hotels
10.2009 - 03.2012
Associate Director of Sales
THE Grand Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
11.2008 - 10.2009
Sales Manager
ACCOR HOTELS
12.2006 - 11.2008
MBA - Sales And Marketing
Institute Of Management Technology, Ghaziabad
04.2005 -
Sales Account Manager
THE LEELA PALACES, Hotels & Resorts
12.2004 - 12.2006
Assistant Sales Manager
Hotel Hindusthan International
07.2003 - 12.2004
Bachelor in Tourism Studies -
IGNOU
01.2003 -
Sales Executive
FARIYAS Hotel, Mumbai
06.2002 - 06.2003
Management Trainee (Hotel Operations)
Historic Resort Hotels
01.2001 - 05.2002
Diploma in Hotel Management -
National Council - PUSA, (IHM GWALIOR)
01.2000 -
Officiating General Manager
Caspia Hotel New Delhi (SAMHI Hotels Ltd.)
3 2022 - Current