Women leaders in the hospitality industry are breaking barriers and driving positive change. With their exceptional skills in communication, empathy, and multitasking, from hotel management to culinary arts, they are transforming and redefining success in the industry and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Their contributions continue to be instrumental in propelling the hospitality sector forward, empowering and uplifting the industry as a whole.

Mary Rodrigues stands at the forefront of women leaders in the hospitality industry, exemplifying resilience and driving positive change. Her diverse expertise, forged through an impressive educational journey, elevates her role as the owner of a four-star hotel and a thriving food distribution business in the Andaman Islands. Embodying empowerment, she embraces change and navigates challenges with unwavering trust and ethical standards. Backed by 43 years of experience and a keen ear for market trends, Mary emerges as a formidable force, poised for continuous growth and success in the dynamic business landscape. In an exclusive interview with Women Entrepreneur, Mary Rodrigues offers valuable insights into her illustrious professional journey and   unveils the key traits that define her as a visionary leader.

Take us through your extensive educational and learning journey. What are the current activities that you are indulged in?

I am a graduate in Public Relations from Stella Maris College, Chennai, and a Postgraduate in Management studies from UCLA (University of California, USA.). Currently, my business interests have brought me to The Andaman Islands, where I am the owner of a 4-star hotel, duly categorized by the Ministry of Tourism in New Delhi. The hotel's operations are expertly managed by Lemon Tree Hotels. Besides the hospitality industry, I'm also involved in a thriving food distribution business in the Andaman Islands. We hold exclusive distribution rights for top multinational and Indian food brands, making us a key player in the local market.

Take us through the prior industry experiences that you bring to the table.

I began my professional journey in 1982 as a Management Trainee and quickly progressed to the position of Director by 1990 at Southern Sea Foods. This company was a pioneer in seafood exports from the 1970s to the 1990s. In addition to that, I ventured into the meat processing industry and founded ‘Farm Suzzane’, a company specializing in sausages, ham, bacon, and other meat products. Our brand became a market leader in the meat processing business across South India, and we supplied major clients such as Dominos, Taj Hotels, and Pizza Hut. It was a formative time for the frozen food industry in the country, and we achieved significant success.

Tell us about your Leadership Style? How do you deal with constant changes in the industry?

Over my 43-year career in various industries, I have developed a holistic approach to understanding situations, industry trends, and the latest operational methods. My success is anchored in empowering my team and wholeheartedly trusting them, as I firmly believe that empowerment and trust are pivotal for any organization's growth. Change is inevitable! I am a good listener and still look for opportunities to learn about the latest market trends. Both our industries are extremely service oriented and we are always looking out or searching for that additional X factor that sets us apart from the competition.

"My Success Has Been Attributed By Empowering My Team & I Believe, As We Look Ahead Into The Future, Leaders Will Be Those Who Empower Others"

What is your experiential learning as a leader of your business?

The company’s growth, strategy and profitability are all mere numbers – what matters the most is setting the DNA of the organization. Well – be it value systems, methods of operations or basic humanity, these factors far outweigh the financial aspects. Personal growth and improvements are essential for entrepreneurs to be effective and contribute to the success of their businesses. Continuously developing as a leader, both professionally and personally, is crucial to remain impactful in the ever-changing business landscape.

What does the future hold for your businesses in the Andaman Islands?

The future looks promising for both our businesses in the Andaman Islands. The region has been in the news lately, with escalating government infrastructure development and growth in all allied industries. In the hospitality and food sectors, we anticipate a steady 7-8 percent year-on-year growth, which presents exciting opportunities for our endeavors in the region. My success has been attributed by empowering my team and I believe! As we look ahead into the future, leaders will be those who empower others.

Mary Rodrigues, MD, Southern Holdings & Investments

Mary Rodrigues Is A Visionary Leader In The Hospitality Industry With More Than Four Decades Of Experience. As The Owner Of A 4-Star Hotel And A Thriving Food Distribution Business In The Andaman Islands, She Empowers Her Team, Embraces Change, & Navigates Challenges With Unwavering Trust & Ethical Standards.