Mr. Erine Louise, General Manager, The Residency Chennai is a dynamic and result-oriented hospitality professional with exceptional expertise of 21+ years in overall Hotels Operations and Business Development Management. Erine is a known face of South Indian Hotel and tourism industry and undoubtedly very competent, diligent and extremely efficient hospitality professional with years of experience in managing the entire gamut of operations and functions related to Hospitality Industry with extensive experience in Catering Operations, Management and Relationship Management.
He was actively involved in the formation of Tamil Nadu Travel Mart Society and the conduct of first edition of Tamil Nadu Travel Mart recently in Chennai, which was a grand success and one of the best marketing event in the history of the Tamil Nadu Tourism. He is a thorough professional with exceptional brilliance in Strategic Planning, Budgeting & Financial Management etc.
He started his career with ITC Windsor Manor, Bangalore and later his moved to CGH Earth Hotels group and served in various capacity, before moved to Residency, a Five star hotel in Coimbatore as General Manager.
- When did you start off your career in the hospitality industry and how did you come to choose this line of work?
I started my career in 1993, I was always active and involved in all activities from childhood. This attitude of mine fueled the thought in my family and they directed and showed me the world of hospitality.
2. How did you come to choose the hospitality industry as your professional ground?
After the University I joined Food & Beverage Production departing believing that it is always exciting to be a good chef, later moved to Food &Beverage Service further climbed on to management and leadership roles.
3. Brief about yourself and your experience in the hospitality industry?
Have spent 21years heading 5 star resorts, business hotels and lately into hotel project management. The industry offered challenges and exciting moments.
I enjoyed my interaction with guests and my team associates.
The recent renovation of The Residency Towers, Coimbatore gave me the insight into complete hotel renovation, MEP, HVAC, automation and total project management.
This is a very rare opportunity and every General Manager must gain a similar experience and add this to his profile.
4. What do you like the most about the industry?
This Industry is for the passionate and enthusiasts where every day is a celebration.
5. Do you feel that tourism in Tamil Nadu is on the right track? What are your suggestions to improve tourism growth in Tamil Nadu, especially in the present scenario?
Tamilnadu is also considering PPP model for Tourism growth. The potential is huge. Tamilnadu Travel Mart society is a catalyst and the society partners with state & central tourism authorities. TTM 2017 was a success and also an eye opener. Next year 2019 will be bigger and better. This will be an excellent window for sellers and buyers and we are happy that government is dearer and proactive for the promotion of the state. This is the right time for investment in Tourism and smaller airports and better connectivity is the only hindrance. Tamilnadu as a whole is a MICE destination. Also winner of highest number of foreign tourist arrivals in India. Tamilnadu is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world and the evolution as a major tourism destination is beautiful, giving trust and focus on developing newer destinations and experiences.
6. You have a sound knowledge and experience with the hospitality industry in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. How you compare these two states?
Kerala is predominantly a tourist destination. Strong footing and giant reaches. More and more International leisure brands are investing is the visible trend and this is how one build round the year destination. Kerala has a smoke free environment and we must be thankful for this blessing in disguise. Cochin International Airport, International Cruise terminal, Marina, Golf Courses, Sports Complexes, Ayurveda, Yoga, Wellness, Endless inland waterways, Rare & Unique homestays, will take Kerala to the next level.
Though Tamilnadu is No 1 in tourist arrivals for numerous years yet to unleash its fullest potential. Tourism will see substantial growth in the days ahead. Invest in destinationTamilnadu and attend Global Investors meet. Pristine beaches, Cultural heritage, food, temples, art, history, hill stations, home stays, wildlife, adventure tourism including hot air balloon fest etc and lot more unexplored experience’s for an alert traveler. FTO’s, Domestic agents and Travel agents may explore untraveled path for exciting itineraries. Newer destinations are now flowering with local flavors and it’s encouraging.
7. A word for aspirants/new entrants in the hospitality industry?
Start drawing the big picture from day one. Be restless and chase your dream.
The first 10 years of learning is crucial because by then you must have fired all the shots and start looking for reloads. Be a good coach as you gain experience.
