With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Rajat Sethi is a seasoned professional renowned for his strong leadership and operational expertise. Currently serving as the General Manager at Fairmont Jaipur, Sethi is dedicated to delivering excellent guest service and driving success. Throughout his career, he has consistently enhanced guest experiences by upholding high service standards, providing personalised attention, and creating memorable moments.
His strategic thinking and collaborative approach have been instrumental in implementing initiatives that increase revenue and improve operational efficiency.
Beyond his professional achievements, he enjoys spending his spare time on the golf course. With his extensive experience and dedication to excellence, he continues to set new standards for service and leadership.
What triggered your interest in the hospitality industry?
My interest in the hospitality industry was ignited by a combination of factors that appealed to my creativity, service, and appreciation for cultural diversity. Growing up in Chandigarh, where conventional careers like engineering and medicine were predominant, I was drawn to the elegance and sophistication of the hotel industry. The opportunity to create memorable experiences for guests, coupled with my love for fine dining and culinary arts, motivated me to pursue a career in hospitality. The industry’s exclusivity and the chance to work in iconic establishments like Fairmont, Taj, Oberoi, and ITC further fueled my passion. This decision has allowed me to combine my personal interests with my professional aspirations, resulting in a deeply fulfilling career.
Tell us a little about your career journey and some key milestones.
My journey in hospitality began in 1998 as a Management Trainee with Carlson Hospitality Worldwide (1998–2000) at Radisson Blu Mahipalpur. This foundational experience provided me with a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations. Over the years, I took on various roles, including lobby management, F&B management, revenue management, and rooms division, eventually becoming a Hotel Manager. A significant milestone was in 2012, when I led the pre-opening team as General Manager at Hilton Hotels Worldwide in Gurugram. Subsequently, I managed diverse properties, including hotel pre-openings, franchises, standalone, city, resort, wedding, and golf retreat hotels. At ITC Grand Bharat (2021–2022), I played a key role in enhancing guest satisfaction scores from 78% to 92%. I spearheaded a revenue management strategy resulting in a 100% increase in total revenue for 2021–2022. Being recognised as the General Manager of the Year 2021–22 by Hotelier India was a testament to my dedication and commitment to excellence.
How does your property stand out from competitors in the region?
Fairmont Jaipur distinguishes itself through a seamless blend of architectural splendour, luxurious accommodations, and a profound commitment to authentic cultural immersion. Inspired by Rajasthan’s rich heritage, our hotel features grand domes, intricate carvings, and majestic arches, creating a regal ambience that evokes the splendour of the Mughal and Rajputana dynasties. With 245 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each equipped with hammam bathtubs for added luxury, we offer a haven of comfort and indulgence. Our dining experiences celebrate the vibrant flavours of Rajasthan and beyond, complemented by unique venues like the Imperial Terrace overlooking the Aravalli Hills.
Also, Fairmont Jaipur is a premium wedding destination, offering venues for various functions like a romantic Mehndi by the poolside or a Sangeet in Zia, a Mughal shamiana-inspired venue. Special touches include a grand elephant procession and bride and groom vintage car entries. For wellness enthusiasts, our spa provides a sanctuary of relaxation with holistic treatments inspired by ancient wellness traditions. Guests can enjoy therapeutic massages, horoscope spa treatments, or yoga sessions in serene surroundings. Our wedding celebrations feature a live cooking station offering locally inspired cuisine, adding to the delightful culinary experience.
What truly sets us apart is our dedication to cultural immersion. We curate experiences that allow guests to delve into Rajasthan’s cultural tapestry through traditional folk performances, guided tours of historic landmarks, and hands-on workshops in local arts and crafts. This authentic engagement not only enriches the guest experience but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage. At Fairmont Jaipur, every stay is a journey through the vibrant soul of Rajasthan.
What are some of the challenges you face as the General Manager of a hotel, and how do you resolve them?
As a General Manager, maintaining high service standards, ensuring guest satisfaction, and managing operational efficiency are ongoing challenges. To address these, I focus on cultivating a strong team culture and providing continuous training and development for staff. Empowering my team with the necessary skills and knowledge enables us to consistently deliver exceptional service. I also leverage data-driven strategies to optimise operations and enhance guest experiences. By prioritising both employee engagement and guest satisfaction, we effectively navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry and maintain our competitive edge.
Your strategies to ensure guests keep coming back?
To ensure guests keep coming back, we prioritise personalised and memorable experiences. Using the Accor Customer Digital Card, we tailor guest preferences before their arrival. Our Five Senses Arrival Experience engages guests from the moment they enter, leaving a lasting impression. We offer unique dining options, such as private dinners at Imperial Terrace and the exclusive Zia barbecue experience under the starlit sky. Guests can also enjoy activities like yoga sessions with views of the Aravalli Hills, historical tours, and cultural workshops. These curated experiences ensure each stay is distinctive and unforgettable, fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat visits.
Your advice to aspiring GMs?
My advice is to engage with the local community, understand the essence of the destination, and offer sustainable practices in order to be an efficient leader. Cultivate a passion for service and a relentless commitment to excellence. Focus on building strong, collaborative teams and investing in continuous learning and development. Embrace innovation and remain adaptable to the ever-evolving demands of the hospitality industry. Prioritise guest satisfaction and strive to exceed expectations. Develop a strategic mindset, leveraging data and insights to drive operational efficiency and enhance the overall guest experience. By adhering to these principles, you can pave the way for a successful and rewarding career in hospitality management.
