IHM Ranchi Hosts ‘Coffee with GMs’ Under SMART Class Series; Hospitality Leaders Share Success Mantras with Students

Ranchi: As part of its SMART Class Series aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry, Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Ranchi, organized a unique and interactive session titled “Coffee with GMs” for third-year students on 30th June 2026. IHM Ranchi’s yearly series of SMART classes are designed to provide students with direct exposure to hospitality industry leaders and equip them with the skills, perspectives, and leadership qualities required to succeed in the dynamic world of hospitality.

Coffee with GMs is one of the initiatives of IHM Ranchi which serves as a valuable platform for interaction between students and some of the most accomplished professionals in the hotel industry.

This year the distinguished panel of General Managers included Mr. Rohit Tiwari, General Manager, Trident Bhubaneswar; Mr. Yogesh Kumar, General Manager, Ramada by Wyndham Ranchi; Mr. Prateek Mohan, General Manager, Grand Mirage, a Member of Radisson Individuals, Dhanbad; Mr. Vijay Kumar, General Manager, Vivanta; and Mr. Alok Bhardwaj, General Manager, Le Lac Sarovar Portico Ranchi. In his welcome address, Dr. Bhupesh Kumar emphasized that IHM Ranchi’s objective is not only to develop skilled hospitality professionals but also to nurture confident, responsible, and future-ready leaders capable of representing the Indian hospitality industry on a global platform. He highlighted that regular engagement with industry experts under the SMART Class Series enables students to gain valuable insights into real-world workplace challenges, industry expectations, and emerging trends.

Unlike a conventional lecture, “Coffee with GMs” was conceptualized as an informal and interactive discussion forum where students could engage directly with senior hospitality leaders. The General Managers shared their personal journeys, career experiences, challenges, and success stories, offering students practical insights into professional growth and leadership development. The experts stressed that success in the hospitality industry goes beyond technical expertise and requires strong communication skills, confidence, positive attitude, discipline, perseverance, and a continuous willingness to learn. Discussions also covered contemporary industry trends, effective management practices, leadership styles, conflict resolution, budgeting and financial management, team leadership, decision-making, hotel operations, and the challenges associated with launching and managing hospitality establishments.

The panelists emphasized that leadership ability, problem-solving skills, confidence, attitude, and interpersonal behavior are critical attributes for a successful hospitality professional. They highlighted that while technical competence is essential, effective communication and a positive approach to work are what truly distinguish between an ordinary and extra ordinary hospitality professionals.

Sharing their experiences, the General Managers encouraged students to view failures and challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Mr. Rohit Tiwari highlighted communication skills, general awareness, and attitude as the foundation of success. Mr. Yogesh Kumar emphasized patience, SMART work, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Mr. Prateek Mohan underscored the importance of emotional intelligence, punctuality, and accountability. Mr. Vijay Kumar stated that confidence is one of the most important qualities in the hospitality industry and reminded students that “the guest is equivalent to God.” Mr. Alok Bhardwaj highlighted confidence, presentation skills, alertness, positive thinking, and lifelong learning as essential ingredients for professional success.

The session was jointly moderated by Mr. Aditya Bikram Bajaj, an alumnus of IHM Ranchi (Batch 2021–24), and Dr. Bhupesh Kumar, Principal, IHM Ranchi.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, who actively interacted with the industry leaders and sought guidance on various career-related aspects. The programme continued during the Lunch and informal interaction of 3rd year student with these industry stalwarts. Students described the session as highly inspiring, informative, and beneficial for their future careers.

“Coffee with GMs” once again demonstrated IHM Ranchi’s commitment to providing industry-oriented learning experiences and preparing students to become future leaders of the hospitality sector through meaningful engagement with accomplished professionals.