Operations

Sheetal Singh: A Journey of Grit, Grace, and Leadership in Indian Hospitality

In a world where hospitality is as much about heart as it is about skill, Sheetal Singh shines as an inspiring force. Her journey through the corridors of India’s finest hotels, from back-of-house beginnings to the coveted role of General Manager at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa, is a story of unwavering determination, quiet leadership, and excellence rooted in authenticity.

From the Ground Up: The Humble Beginnings

 

Long before leading luxury resorts in iconic destinations, Sheetal began her journey as a Management Trainee with the Welcomegroup Management Institute, one of India’s most esteemed training grounds in hospitality. Her foundation was solid, her intent clear: to learn every nuance of hotel operations, no matter how challenging or invisible the work seemed at the time.

What followed was a consistent and focused climb—marked by resilience and a deep respect for process. From the pre-opening team at ITC Sonar Bangla Sheraton Towers to stints at ITC Grand Central and Welcomegroup Aurangabad, she grew not just in title, but in understanding the art of creating guest experiences from the inside out.

Mastering the Craft of Housekeeping and Operational Excellence

Over the years, Sheetal built a stronghold in the Housekeeping department, an area often overlooked but absolutely essential to a hotel’s reputation and guest satisfaction. Her years at ITC Green Centre, ITC Grand Maratha, and the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai not only polished her expertise but also earned her the reputation of someone who leads with precision, people-first values, and a keen eye for detail.

From being a Deputy Housekeeper to Executive Housekeeper at Taj Bangalore, she consistently proved that operational roles could be powerful platforms for leadership. She wasn’t just maintaining standards—she was redefining them, with a deep respect for her team and an unwavering commitment to the guest experience.

Leadership with Vision: The Rise to General Manager

Her transition from operations to leadership wasn’t accidental—it was well-earned. At Taj Bangalore, she moved from Housekeeping to become the Director of Rooms, a role that required holistic operational oversight and guest-facing finesse. Here, Sheetal displayed her ability to manage complexity with grace, streamline guest experiences, and motivate cross-functional teams.

Soon after, she took on her first General Manager role at Ambassador New Delhi – IHCL SeleQtions, where she led with a perfect blend of strategy and empathy. Her leadership here stood out not just for business performance, but for nurturing culture—mentoring young talent, fostering team unity, and handling challenges with quiet strength.

Her next chapter at Ginger Hotels – Mumbai Airport brought a dynamic shift. In a fast-paced, high-demand airport hotel environment, Sheetal showcased her adaptability and operational agility, reinforcing her versatility across hospitality formats.

The Crown Jewel: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa

Now, as General Manager of Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Goa, one of India’s most celebrated luxury beach resorts, Sheetal brings her full-circle journey into a role that demands both visionary thinking and hands-on leadership. Her presence at the helm reflects IHCL’s trust in her as a transformative leader—someone who can elevate legacy properties while infusing them with a fresh, guest-centric energy.

Here, she’s not just managing a resort—she’s curating moments, mentoring future leaders, and ensuring that every corner of the resort breathes the Taj ethos of luxury, care, and Indian hospitality.

Leadership Style: Grounded, Inclusive, and Impactful

What makes Sheetal Singh’s leadership truly distinctive is her grounded approach. Having worked in every layer of hotel operations, she leads with empathy. She listens. She collaborates. She uplifts.

Her teams describe her as focused yet approachable, demanding yet fair. Whether managing a pre-opening team or leading a luxury resort, Sheetal brings a rare balance of discipline and inspiration.

Her educational journey—from the National Institute of Hotel Management to pursuing an Executive MBA from Les Roches Crans-Montana, Switzerland—reflects a belief that growth never stops. It’s this mindset that has helped her not only rise in rank but stay relevant and respected in an ever-evolving industry.

A Role Model in Indian Hospitality

In an industry still finding its balance between tradition and transformation, Sheetal Singh stands as a powerful role model. She represents the new wave of hospitality leadership—experienced, empathetic, and endlessly evolving.

Her story is not just one of professional success, but of personal evolution. A journey from behind-the-scenes operations to the spotlight of leadership. And above all, a reminder that in hospitality, the most powerful service is not just to guests—but to your team, your brand, and your values.

Team

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