"HR is the business behind the business!"

Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President Human Resources, IHCL, in a candid conversation about talent management at IHCL, advice to HR professionals and more...

- 

Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President - Human Resources, IHCL, brings with him 28 years of rich experience in Operations. He has essayed a number of critical roles along the way such as General Manager - The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai, Area Director - New Delhi & GM - Taj Palace, New Delhi, Senior Vice President Operations Delhi, NCR & Rajasthan, Senior Vice President - Operations NCR, UP, Uttarakhand, Jaipur & Ajmer and most recently, Senior Vice President - Operations, North.

Carrying a 'nothing is impossible' attitude which has helped him break barriers, present out-of-thebox solutions and rally teams, Gaurav is known for his decision-making ability, commitment and passion towards his work.

How does Taj's legacy and brand reputation help in attracting high-potential talent, and what measures are taken to retain them in a competitive environment?

At IHCL, we take pride in our 120+ year legacy, which inspires a deep sense of belonging among our workforce.

Our commitment to service excellence attracts individuals who share our passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Rooted in the Tata Group's core values, we ensure a fair, respectful, and principled work environment.

Additionally, IHCL's strategy to be South Asia's largest hospitality eco-system with its diversified brandscape addressing the heterogenous market has put us on a path of accelerated growth. In 2024, IHCL set a new benchmark with 85 signings and 40 new openings across all its brands and its homestay brand reached a milestone of 250 bungalow portfolio. This pace of growth offers opportunities to build diverse career paths across brands, geographies and functions. This also accelerates the path to leadership positions both at head of department and General Manager levels.