Rupa Shrestha is a passionate hotelier currently working as a Sales Executive at Lemon Tree Premier Budhanilkantha. She is deeply enthusiastic about the hospitality industry and is committed to creating meaningful guest experiences while contributing to the growth of her organisation. Her early inspiration to pursue hospitality comes from a strong family influence rooted in the industry, which shaped her understanding and interest in the field from a young age.
What inspired you to pursue a career in hospitality?
My inspiration comes from my father, Mr. Purshottam Shrestha, who was part of the hospitality industry from 1992 to 2002 and worked at Hotel Yak & Yeti. As a child, I had the opportunity to visit the hotel during staff appreciation programmes, and those experiences left a lasting impression on me. The warm, welcoming environment and the incredible variety of food truly fascinated me. That was when I first felt drawn to the world of hospitality.
What key leadership qualities are essential for a Sales Executive to succeed in today’s evolving hospitality landscape?
Strong communication with guests and within the organisation, in-depth product knowledge, and a solid understanding of Nepal’s market structure are essential qualities for a successful Sales Executive in today’s hospitality industry.
How do you design your sales strategy to effectively engage both local and international markets at Lemon Tree Premier?
I design my sales strategy by effectively showcasing our strong product offerings, facilities, food, and the overall hospitality experience at Lemon Tree Premier Budhanilkantha. I focus on clearly communicating our unique value to both local and international markets, ensuring that our services are positioned in a way that meets the expectations and preferences of different customer segments.
What has been a defining achievement in your career so far, and what did it teach you?
One defining achievement in my career so far has been earning recognition in the hospitality industry in my own right, where I am now identified for my work and contributions beyond my family background. It taught me the importance of patience, effective communication, handling rejection, and deeply understanding guest needs. I have also learned that consistent follow-up and a positive attitude are key to turning opportunities into long-term business relationships.
What is the biggest challenge facing Nepal’s hospitality sector today, and how can sales and marketing teams play a role in addressing it?
One of the biggest challenges facing Nepal’s hospitality sector today is the infrastructure deficit. While major cities and popular tourist destinations have seen improvements, many areas still lack the necessary infrastructure. Inadequate transportation facilities, limited access to remote destinations, and a severe shortage of skilled manpower—largely driven by high employee turnover and the migration of professionals abroad for better opportunities—continue to impact the industry’s growth.
Sales and marketing teams can play an important role in addressing these challenges by positioning Nepal more effectively as a destination and maximising existing resources. Through targeted marketing, we can highlight accessible destinations, improve demand distribution beyond major cities, and promote lesser-known areas that already have basic infrastructure. On the sales side, we can create strong partnerships with travel agents, corporates, and online platforms to ensure consistent business flow despite logistical limitations. Additionally, by focusing on value-driven packages and clear communication with guests, we can manage expectations while enhancing their overall experience. In this way, sales and marketing help bridge the gap created by infrastructure and manpower constraints.
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