‘Sustainability is a vital aspect of our daily operations’

His dedication to the luxury hospitality sector has been a cornerstone of his career, driven by a profound admiration for MS Dhoni’s exceptional leadership and strategic acumen. “Dhoni’s adeptness at orchestrating the game and making pivotal decisions parallels my own approach to leadership, inspiring me to devise impactful strategies for my team. Just as cricket thrives on teamwork and collaboration, I cherish the role of both team player and leader, rather than focussing solely on individual achievement,” says Jitendra Taak, General Manager, ITC Kohenur.

The most gratifying aspect of my role as General Manager lies in the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry, opines Taak. “Each day unveils a fresh array of experiences and challenges, fuelling my passion and keeping my work invigorating. The opportunity to navigate different cities and cater to diverse demographics adds a layer of excitement and continuous evolution to my career. This position has also enabled me to lead a larger team and tackle new challenges, significantly accelerating my growth in an industry as ever-changing as it is fulfilling,” he says.

Evolution of luxury hospitality

Over recent years, the hospitality sector has seen transformative changes, and the ITC Kohenur team has adeptly navigated these shifts, embodying a philosophy of Responsible Luxury that resonates deeply with today’s discerning travellers.  

The concept of Responsible Luxury has become a cornerstone of ITC Kohenur’s operations. As environmental awareness grows, so does the demand for brands that prioritise sustainability. “Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a vital aspect of our daily operations,” says Taak, adding, “Guests are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, and they respect brands that mirror their values.”

This commitment is reflected in ITC Kohenur’s LEED Platinum certification, a testament to the hotel’s dedication to eco-friendly practices. From energy efficiency to water conservation and sustainable cuisine, every initiative underscores the hotel’s pledge to responsible luxury. Taak notes, “Our guests deeply appreciate these efforts. It’s not merely about implementing practices but about aligning with our guests’ values and creating a genuine connection through our commitment.”

The introduction of iPad-controlled rooms and QR codes for menu access has streamlined service and enhanced convenience at ITC Kohenur. “Technology has revolutionised how we interact with our guests. These innovations have improved response times and provided a seamless, high-tech experience that our guests find incredibly valuable,” explains Taak.

The shift towards personalised and immersive experiences has been another pivotal change. “Luxury today is about creating meaningful, personalised experiences. At ITC Kohenur, we’ve embraced this shift, focussing on genuine guest connections and tailored experiences that go beyond the ordinary,” Taak reflects.  

In addition, the growing emphasis on wellness has led to the development of specialised programmes. The hotel offers curated spa treatments and health-conscious dining options, catering to the increasing demand for holistic well-being. “Wellness is more than a trend; it’s a fundamental aspect of modern luxury. Our wellness initiatives enhance the overall guest experience, making their stay both rejuvenating and memorable,” adds Taak.

Navigating the future of luxury  

Under the leadership of General Manager Taak, the hotel is aligning itself with transformative trends and setting new standards for the future.

Sustainability has become a pivotal trend in luxury hospitality, and ITC Kohenur is embracing this shift with enthusiasm. “We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting local sourcing. These green initiatives are more than just policies; they’re integral to the hotel’s operations and resonate deeply with guests seeking eco-friendly experiences,” he says.

In tandem with sustainability, technology is revolutionising the luxury experience at ITC Kohenur. “We’re excited about how technology enhances personalisation and convenience. From smart room controls to advanced guest management systems, our innovations streamline services and tailor experiences,” Taak notes. These technological advancements are designed to provide a seamless and customised stay, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends.

Hyderabad’s vibrant hospitality market offers promising opportunities, with new F&B offerings, hotel openings and improved connectivity. “We’re aligning our services with these market developments to capitalise on the city’s dynamic trajectory,” he discloses.

Golconda Pavillion

Maintaining a competitive edge  

ITC Kohenur differentiates itself in the luxury hospitality arena through its commitment to exceptional service, responsible luxury and impeccable product quality. “Our meticulous attention to detail – from luxurious rooms to a diverse range of dining options – sets us apart,” says Taak, General Manager. The hotel’s journey is marked by significant milestones and accolades that reflect its relentless pursuit of excellence. “Being honoured with the HVS Anarock Award for Best 5 Star Luxury Hotel and seeing our culinary destinations, like the acclaimed Peshwari, gain recognition are testaments to our focus on innovative design and quality,” he notes.

Central to ITC Kohenur’s success is its exceptional team, whose dedication ensures that each guest’s experience is outstanding. “Our team’s commitment to going above and beyond truly makes a difference,” Taak explains. The hotel’s strategic location in HITEC City provides convenient access to nearby business parks and cultural attractions. “This prime location has been a game-changer, allowing us to serve both business and leisure travellers with ease,” he says.

Despite the competitive landscape, ITC Kohenur remains a distinguished choice for discerning guests, thanks to its consistent excellence in service, ongoing innovations, and commitment to sustainable practices. “Our dedication to providing an unparalleled luxury experience is what sets us apart,” shares Taak.

The Lobby

Unique features and services  

ITC Kohenur stands out with its distinctive blend of luxury, sustainability and cultural experiences. “Our most celebrated feature is the iconic Peshawri restaurant, renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings and highly praised by the city. We also boast a diverse range of food and beverage options, including Dum Pukht Begum’s, Yi Jing, Ottimo, Golconda Pavilion, Fabelle, Skypoint, and Peacock bar, ensuring a rich culinary journey for our guests. Unique to our hotel are our expansive 495 sq ft rooms, which offer unparalleled space and comfort. Additionally, 60 per cent of our rooms provide enchanting views of the Durgam Cheruvu lake, enhancing the guest experience,” he says.

The evening ritual of mehmaan nawazi offers a serene and memorable conclusion to the day. “Our hotel features its own lush lawn, a lovely infinity pool, and a prime location in HITEC City, which adds to our appeal. These unique aspects, combined with our focus on delivering a WOW experience, set us apart and ensure each guest’s stay is luxurious, memorable and deeply satisfying,” informs Taak.

Yi Jing

Leadership and team management

The General Manager says his approach to leadership is centred around fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. “In the high-pressure setting of a luxury hotel, clear communication and trust are crucial. I prioritise setting clear expectations and providing regular feedback. A key component of my leadership is the daily 30-minute huddle with the team, which I consider the heartbeat of our operations. During this time, we review thoughts, ideas, market trends and guest experiences, addressing what went well and identifying areas for improvement,” he says, adding that this ritual ensures the team stays aligned on current issues while planning for the future. “By focussing on quality, cost and processes, and celebrating our successes, we build resilience and maintain the high standards necessary for delivering exceptional service. This approach helps us thrive in the dynamic and demanding hospitality environment,” he avers.

The Executive Club

Industry trends and professional development

To stay abreast of industry trends and advance his professional development, Taak adopts a multifaceted approach. “Social media is a key tool, allowing me to follow industry leaders, organisations and emerging trends for real-time updates and insights relevant to luxury hospitality. In addition to social media, I regularly review industry publications, which offer in-depth analysis on current and future trends. This comprehensive view helps me stay informed about the latest developments in the sector,” he says.

Equally important is building and nurturing relationships with industry peers and experts, feels the ITC Kohenur GM. “Engaging in meaningful conversations and sharing experiences with these professionals provides valuable insights and keeps me ahead of the curve. By integrating these strategies, I ensure that I remain knowledgeable and capable of applying new insights to enhance our hotel’s operations and guest experiences,” feels Taak whose professional journey in the luxury hospitality sector spans over 18 years.

Peshawri

“It began with ITC Hotels in 2001 as part of the Welcomlegionnaire Programme. Over the years, I have worked in various capacities within Food & Beverage Service across several luxury hotels, including ITC Grand Chola, ITC Mughal, ITC Grand Bharat, Sheraton New Delhi, and ITC Maurya, where I served as Hotel Manager. My commitment to enhancing guest experiences and embracing innovative practices has been a key element of my career,” he concludes.

Saurabh Tankha

BW Reporters The author is the Editor at BW HOTELIER.