Breaking stereotypes

Ranju Alex, Area Vice President - South Asia, Marriott International, is leading several initiatives, including women empowerment, diversity inclusion, sustainability and new business models. In this exclusive interview, she sheds light on the principles that define the company and its journey ahead.

With a career that spans over 28 years in the hospitality industry, Ranju Alex is a name to reckon with. As she takes over the most catalytic role of her career, she holds a clear vision for her team and the company.

LOOKING BACK

Alex had always been clear that hospitality was her calling and admits that she was born to be a hotelier. "My journey in this industry was a chosen path for me. Every day when I leave for work, I leave with a spring in my step. I've had times, especially when I was a young mother, when I wanted to quit and stay at home, but as I look back today, it has been one of the most enriching journeys of my life. Through these years, I've seen the hospitality industry undergo a radical transformation. And today, when I see the paradigm shift in people choosing hospitality as their primary career, and not just an alternate backup option, it gives me immense happiness. I have a son and a daughter who decided to be in hotels, and I supported him wholeheartedly because I know what a beautiful industry this is, and the growth potential it holds. And when an industry grows, you grow individually too."

For someone who overcame taboos about women joining hotels, she admits that while a considerable amount of work is yet to be done within this realm, women are so confident in choosing this as a preferred industry today.

LEARNING LESSONS

In her three-decade career, Alex worked with the Oberoi Group for 17 years and then with Marriott International. She reveals, "Whilst the value system of both companies are very people and quality-centric, the style of functioning is vastly different, and I have been very lucky to learn from the best between these two companies."