Gaurav Vig

With an impressive career spanning 17 years, Gaurav Vig has had the privilege of working with some of the finest hospitality brands in India, including the Taj Group of Hotels, Oberoi Hotels, Palaces & Resorts, Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, Kamat Hotels, and Radisson Hotel Group. Currently serving as the Director of Rooms at Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport, Gaurav has been associated with the property for the past three years. His commitment to service excellence, a relentless drive to exceed guest expectations, and a strategic focus on revenue growth have been instrumental in elevating operational standards at the property. A dynamic leader, Gaurav’s expertise in managing hotel operations ensures that every guest enjoys a seamless, memorable experience.

What makes the rooms stand out from the rooms in other hotels in Mumbai?
At Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport, we pride ourselves on offering 350 sq. ft. standard rooms, which are among the largest in the city. In many other hotels, this size would be classified as a junior suite. Beyond the generous space, our rooms are thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, elegant interiors, and exceptional comfort to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers. It’s the perfect blend of luxury, functionality, and warmth that sets us apart.

What are the skills required to be an efficient hotelier?
Being an efficient hotelier requires excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and an unwavering focus on guest satisfaction. Empathy is key—you need to understand and anticipate the needs of your guests. Strong leadership and team management skills are crucial, as the industry relies heavily on collaboration. Additionally, attention to detail, adaptability to handle dynamic situations, and a passion for continuous learning are must-have traits in this ever-evolving industry.

What made you get into the hospitality industry? Who is your inspiration?
I entered the hospitality industry because I’ve always been passionate about creating memorable experiences for people. Hospitality allows me to connect with individuals from diverse cultures, make a positive impact, and be part of moments they’ll cherish forever. My inspiration comes from visionary leaders within our own brand, like Federico J. González, whose emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and people-first leadership resonates deeply with me.

Which are your favourite cities for travel and food?
I love cities that offer a mix of culture and a rich culinary landscape. Tokyo amazes me with its unique blend of tradition, modernity, and incredible cuisine. In India, Delhi holds a special place for its street food and historical charm. Internationally, Istanbul is another favorite—it’s a city that combines vibrant markets, rich history, and an unforgettable food experience.

At work, which is your most challenging activity and why?
The most challenging aspect of my role is maintaining exceptional service during high-demand periods. Balancing the needs of individual guests while ensuring smooth operations requires precision and teamwork. Addressing last-minute challenges, such as unexpected guest requests or operational issues, can be demanding, but overcoming these situations and seeing satisfied guests makes it all worthwhile.

When are you happiest?
I’m happiest when I see guests leaving with a smile, knowing their experience has been nothing short of exceptional. A genuine “thank you” or positive feedback from a guest, especially when we’ve gone the extra mile, is incredibly rewarding. On a personal level, I find joy in traveling, exploring new cuisines, and spending time with loved ones.

Future plans?
My focus is on enhancing guest experiences and driving innovation at Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport. I aspire to mentor the next generation of hoteliers, sharing my knowledge and passion for hospitality. Personally, I plan to continue exploring the world, learning from different cultures, and staying ahead of industry trends to ensure our guests always experience the best.