Hailing from a reputed hotelier family in Shimla, Chander Baljee has an inherent affinity for the hospitality business. He set up Royal Orchid Hotels two decades ago, and despite facing
several challenges, he steadily grew its portfolio to encompass 60 hotels across India.
In 2006, Royal Orchid Hotels went public and raised INR 130 crore, which helped it augments its rapid expansion plans. He has now set in motion plans to cross the 100-hotel milestone by 2022.
In addition to being an astute entrepreneur, Baljee is an altruist who believes in giving back
to an industry that has always inspired him. He established the Presidency College of Hotel Management in 1994, which trains youngsters on multiple skills to make them immediately
employable in the hospitality sector. During the pandemic, the institute released a free 3-month online training initiative for Front of House, housekeeping and F&B departments for people across the country.
Under Baljee’s guidance, Royal Orchid Hotels also initiated a training programme for managers of various departments at its existing properties. They learn a range of topics, including engineering, accounts, social media marketing, guest relations and revenue management, which prepares them for an enhanced senior position in the organisation. This has worked as a win-win strategy for the hotel and its employees, who get the assurance of a career roadmap and it also underlines Mr Baljee’s foresight.
Over the years, he has adopted an innovative approach to resolve issues. His unstoppable determination continues to inspire hope, as he scales hurdles effortlessly with a never-say die attitude.
