With a palate refined by decades in hospitality and a flair for flavouring operations with innovation, Subhankar Bose stepped into Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel as its new General Manager last August… and he was ready to stir things up. And, how! From curating elevated guest experiences to fine-tuning team dynamics like a master chef adjusting seasoning, Bose brings to the table over 23 years of well-plated expertise across India’s top hotel brands.

Having helmed properties from Kochi to Kolkata, his career has been a delectable mix of operational excellence, community initiatives, and leadership garnished with vision. At Kochi Marriott, he introduced impactful workforce wellness programmes and was lauded with the Chief Minister’s Excellence Award. Before that, at Renaissance Bengaluru, he reimagined the hotel’s F&B offerings, elevating its market position to a five-star favourite.

Much like the tabla rhythms he adores, Subhankar’s leadership style is perfectly timed, deeply rooted in Indian culture, yet adaptive and fluid. His passion for classical music, regional cuisines, and immersive travel continue to shape his holistic approach, making hospitality not just a profession, but an art form.

Here, in an exclusive interview, Subhankar Bose speaks to Sumita Chakraborty, Founder & Editor-in-Chief, TheGlitz, about his flavourful journey, fresh plans for Sheraton Hyderabad, and the ingredients that define his recipe for success.

Over To Subhankar Bose, General Manager, Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel

From Operations to Excellence

You’ve had an impressive 23-year journey across India’s leading hotel brands. What has been the most transformative moment in your career so far?
The most transformative moment came when I transitioned from my role as Front Office Manager at Grand Hyatt Mumbai to becoming the General Manager at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel. It was a true turning point that shifted my perspective from focusing solely on operations to taking charge of the hotel in its entirety. It taught me to balance guest satisfaction, operational excellence, and team leadership—skills that continue to shape my journey.

People-First Leadership

You’ve championed initiatives like ‘Life on Time’ to enhance associate well-being. How do you balance guest satisfaction with internal workforce morale?
I strongly believe that happy associates create happy guests. Initiatives like ‘Life on Time’ were born from this belief, ensuring our teams feel heard, supported, and valued. When associates feel recognized and motivated, their natural positivity translates into exceptional guest experiences. It’s about creating a cycle of care—when the team is taken care of, they take even better care of our guests.

Sheraton Hyderabad Vision

What are your key priorities and vision for Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel in the coming year?
At Sheraton Hyderabad, my focus is on elevating every touchpoint of the guest journey—whether it’s through our 284 rooms, our diverse F&B experiences, or personalized services that make stays memorable. We’re working on introducing innovative dining concepts, strengthening our connection with Marriott Bonvoy members, and positioning the hotel as a preferred destination in Hyderabad for both business and leisure travelers.

Driving Innovation in Hospitality

In an evolving hospitality landscape, how do you incorporate innovation without losing the essence of traditional service values?
I see innovation as a tool that should enhance, not overshadow, human connection. Technology helps us streamline operations and tailor experiences—whether it’s through personalization or efficiency—but the warmth, attentiveness, and cultural nuances of traditional hospitality remain at the heart of what we do. The essence of personalised service lies in that human touch.

Crisis to Opportunity

Hospitality has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years. What leadership strategies helped you steer your teams during difficult times?
The last few years tested all of us in hospitality. My approach centered on three things: transparency, empathy, and agility. Keeping communication open reassured the team, while swift operational changes ensured we could adapt to evolving circumstances. Above all, I wanted my team to feel secure and supported. When the associates felt cared for, they were able to maintain service standards and continue delivering meaningful guest experiences, even in uncertain times.

Beyond the Boardroom

You’re a tabla enthusiast and a lover of Indian classical music. How do these creative pursuits influence your approach to leadership?
Playing the tabla has instilled patience, discipline, and creativity in me. Music is about rhythm and harmony, and I find the same applies to leadership—balancing diverse teams, responding with flexibility, and creating synergy in a dynamic environment. Just as every note contributes to a melody, every associate contributes to the hotel’s success.

Cultural Immersion

You often explore local cultures and cuisines while traveling. Has any destination deeply influenced your management style or hospitality philosophy?
Travel has taught me the value of authenticity and personalization. Each destination has its own rhythm, traditions, and flavors that influence how guests want to experience hospitality. For example, Hyderabad itself has a rich cultural tapestry, and it inspires us at Sheraton to craft experiences that seamlessly blend global standards with local charm—whether it’s through food, service, or design.

Advice to Aspiring Hoteliers

What advice would you offer to young professionals looking to build a meaningful and impactful career in hospitality?
Stay curious, stay humble, and never stop learning. Build a strong foundation in operations, but also be willing to adapt and embrace change. Most importantly, focus on creating experiences that guests will remember—because at its heart, hospitality is about making people feel valued, welcomed, and cared for.

Redefining Celebrations at Sheraton Hyderabad

The Jade Ballroom has just been relaunched as one of Hyderabad’s most versatile premium event venues. How does this space reflect your vision for Sheraton Hyderabad?
The relaunch of Jade Ballroom is a proud milestone for us. We wanted to create a space that not only meets the evolving demands of today’s celebrations and corporate events but also brings a sense of grandeur and elegance unique to Hyderabad. The pillarless design ensures versatility and flexibility for any type of gathering, from intimate ceremonies to large-scale weddings and conferences.

With its cutting-edge technology, enhanced pre-function area, and seamless adaptability, Jade offers guests an experience that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition. For me, Jade represents Sheraton Hyderabad’s commitment to being a destination where memorable moments are crafted—whether personal milestones or business achievements.