Leading with Excellence: Preeti Makhija’s Rise to General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi

Preeti Makhija embodies the essence of dedication, leadership, and excellence in the luxury hospitality industry. With an illustrious career spanning over 19 years, she has risen through the ranks to become the General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi, one of India’s most prestigious luxury hotels. Her journey reflects a relentless pursuit of perfection, an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, and an innate ability to drive innovation in hotel management.

Foundations of a Passionate Hotelier: A Commitment to Service and Excellence

Preeti’s journey in hospitality began with a deep-rooted passion for guest service and an ambition to redefine luxury experiences. From her early days in front office operations to taking on leadership roles in sales and rooms division, she developed a keen understanding of every facet of hotel management. Her ability to blend operational expertise with a guest-centric approach quickly set her apart in the competitive world of luxury hospitality.

Her tenure at The Oberoi Group laid the foundation for her expertise in high-end hospitality, where she honed her skills in sales and front office operations. These formative years instilled in her a meticulous eye for detail and a deep appreciation for delivering world-class experiences.

Climbing the Ranks: Leading with Vision at The Leela Palace New Delhi

Preeti’s association with The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts spans over 14 years, during which she has held multiple strategic roles. Her ascent within the organization is a testament to her leadership abilities and commitment to operational excellence.

As Royal Club Manager, she curated bespoke luxury experiences for elite guests, setting new benchmarks in personalized service.

As Guest Services Manager, she played a crucial role in ensuring seamless guest experiences, further refining her expertise in luxury hospitality.

Her success in guest engagement led her to the role of Director of Rooms and The Leela Club, where she spearheaded innovative service initiatives, enhancing the brand’s reputation for unparalleled luxury.

In May 2024, she was appointed Hotel Manager, a role that positioned her at the helm of operational leadership, overseeing multiple departments and ensuring seamless hotel performance.

Her exceptional leadership and dedication were recognized when she was elevated to General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi in March 2025, making her one of the most influential leaders in India’s luxury hospitality sector.

Redefining Luxury: A Leader Who Inspires Excellence

As General Manager, Preeti Makhija is at the forefront of redefining luxury hospitality. Her ability to balance operational efficiency with bespoke guest experiences has set new industry standards. She is committed to innovation, sustainability, and elevating The Leela Palace New Delhi’s status as a beacon of luxury in the global hospitality landscape.

Her leadership is characterized by a people-first approach—mentoring teams, fostering a culture of excellence, and inspiring the next generation of hoteliers. Under her guidance, The Leela Palace continues to thrive as a symbol of opulence, impeccable service, and world-class hospitality.

A Legacy in the Making

Preeti Makhija’s journey from a passionate hotelier to the General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi is a testament to perseverance, strategic thinking, and an unyielding commitment to luxury hospitality. As she continues to shape the future of Indian hospitality, her impact extends beyond her own achievements—she is a mentor, an innovator, and a leader redefining excellence in the industry.

Her story is far from over, and with her at the helm, The Leela Palace New Delhi is poised to reach even greater heights in the global hospitality arena.