Anuraag Bhatnagar, The Leela Palace’s COO, has a distinguished experience in the hospitality business. His path to becoming the COO of one of India’s most opulent hotel chains has been distinguished by devotion, hard work, and a strong interest in the hospitality industry.
Anuraag Bhatnagar was born in India and reared there. He finished his education at a local high school before seeking further education in hotel management. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management and Catering Technology, giving him a solid foundation in the hospitality business. IHM Pusa-New Delhi and Delhi University graduate, presently based in Mumbai, India.
Bhatnagar began his career in hospitality by working for well-known hotel brands. He obtained great expertise in a variety of positions such as operations, food and beverage management, and marketing. This hands-on experience allowed him to refine his abilities and gain a better grasp of the sector.
In his career he worked for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.from 2011 to 2015 for 4 years 5 months.
He also worked for Marriott International in India from 2015 to 2020 for 4 years 8 months.
Awards & Recognitions –
Have been awarded as the General Manager of the Year at the Hotelier India Awards 2011, 2013 by Starwood APAC
Outstanding Talent Developer in Asia Pacific in 2010
Hotelier of the Year 2010, Young Achiever in Hospitality
Best General Manager by Star Diamond Award 2009
“Whether it was product, programming, or service, the core of The Leela brand was always very strong.” We have assets of the highest quality, such as the Leela Palace hotels. We are most likely and arguably one of the best architectural buildings in every city, with world-class quality and authenticity in terms of art, offerings, and programmes.
The epidemic halted operations three months after he joined The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts as COO. That’s when Anuraag Bhatnagar realised it was the perfect moment to rethink the company’s business strategy and design successful methods to fit changing client behaviours.
“Our focus shifted to ‘Reimagine, Redesign, and Reset,” Anurag explains. “We made certain that we not only met, but exceeded, guest expectations while remaining true to our brand value and delivering a true luxury experience,” he said.
This was also an opportunity to highlight #LeelaCares for its 3,500 workers spread across 10 hotels, guests, and communities. It collaborated with Bureau Veritas India to launch the ‘Suraksha’ certification programme and conducted a vaccination drive for employees and their families. Furthermore, it used technology to improve guest experiences and empower its workers. Contactless check-in, digital menus, e-publications, a guest feedback system, and e-butlers with Whatsapp were all integrated at warp speed to provide real-time reaction.
Anuraag Bhatnagar has been recognized for his outstanding leadership abilities, business acumen, and dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences throughout his career.
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