On 29th September 2016, SMUTH launched its Leadership Series with a presentation and Q&A session on “Managing a Career in Hospitality” by industry veteran Mr. Vivek Bhalla, Director of Operations - Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). The intimate session attracted 45 alumni, undergraduates and industry professionals coming together to hear Mr. Bhalla share the learnings from his exciting career in hospitality. In the 20 years of his career, Mr. Bhalla has held leadership roles in some of the world’s most prominent hotel management companies and started his own asset management consulting advisory.
Attendees at the session were treated to a very candid, insightful and refreshingly honest presentation, during which Mr. Bhalla addressed a variety of topics from being selective with career advice, building a broad base of skills, adhering to one’s set of values and money matters. During the subsequent 30-minutes Q&A session, he addressed questions on managing negative feedback at work, perceptions on job hopping and academic training relevant for hospitality. Feedback from the participants were overwhelmingly positive, with some expressing how they are further inspired to achieve their dreams or make positive changes.
The session ended with a very engaging networking session when new acquaintances were made and old contacts renewed. Sincere thanks to the SMU Office of Alumni Relations for their support in organising the event at the University Lounge.
---
The SMU Travel and Hospitality (SMUTH) Alumni Group aims to attract and retain talent in Travel by creating a platform to inspire students and Alumni to explore and build careers in Travel and Hospitality. The SMUTH Leadership Series seeks to connect students, alumni, academia, industry professionals and thought leaders to gather and discuss industry trends, insights and perspectives.
By Shyn Yee Ho-Strangas (BBM 2004)