Name: Pranal B.
Position: Duty Manager
Hotel: The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa
Dream Destination: Switzerland and Bali
Favorite way to focus on wellness: I am always trying to be physically active. First thing in the morning, I have some herbal tea or some lemon warm water. I also aim to have 15 minutes of sunlight daily, as well as get fresh air and enough sleep. And I love Yoga; I practice it for at least half an hour.

As a Duty Manager, Pranal’s job is essentially to ensure everything runs smoothly at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. From participating in new staff trainings, to taking on health and safety responsibilities, or helping with catering operations, his is the definition of a 360 role. And he loves it!

Pranal started his Marriott journey as a Captain at The Ritz-Carlton in Saudi Arabia and later was promoted to run the Food and Beverage outlet before leaving the company to go back to his home country, India, to be with his family. After working for different luxury hospitality companies, Pranal says he came back to Marriott because, to him, it felt like coming back home.

“I feel Marriott is the place where every employee feels at home. It’s home away from home,” he says. Inspiring leadership, many opportunities for continually learning and growing, and an open-door policy was mostly what attracted him to stay with Marriott. “And the senior leadership is always helpful. They create leaders.”

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Because of the multifaceted nature of his role, Pranal runs around the hotel most of the day, which is one of the reasons why he likes to stay in shape, physically and mentally, through small daily actions — daily yoga, fresh air, herbal tea or lemon water, and taking the stairs when possible — that have a big impact.

As such, it feels fitting that Pranal is featured in Westin’s new Heart of Westin: Wellness Cards, Move Well Collection. Each one of the 30 cards in the collection features a Westin associate from around the world performing a specific stretch. In his card, Pranal is shown doing “ankle rotations” pointing his feet inwards and outwards, slowly, with one foot at a time.

“It serves as an inspirational example for others,” Pranal says of being able to participate in the initiative. “Westin brings the fitness challenge within us, it’s truly inspiring.”

Learn more about Pranal’s career journey and what makes him happy at work, in his own words below.

How are you encouraged to prioritize your well-being at work?

Westin invites employees to be inspired by the principles of mindfulness, and to pause and appreciate each moment. There’s healthy food in the cafeteria, a gym, and a swimming pool. This great initiative applies to our daily routine.

What is your favorite part of working at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa?

Every day I am making someone’s day better, it’s all about the guests and making their stay special. When you feel you are the reason for someone’s smile that is the favorite part of my day. Also, you’re working with people who have great interpersonal skills and who are outgoing and fun. The best thing is I enjoy the work and that I always feel I am part of the family.

What makes you feel valued at Marriott?

One of the best things [about working] at Marriott is that your leaders count you as an important part of the team and involve you in operations. They give you empowerment and responsibility, and make you feel like you are an important person in the family.

And what makes you feel supported in your role?

I am a person who loves to take responsibility and I feel happier when I solve problems. But it is the support I receive from my colleagues and my leaders at work that primes me for success.

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?

I will proudly say that my proudest moment in my career is when people tell me I have all the qualities of a leader. This makes me proud and makes me want to achieve results, goals and objectives for the company. When guests come to you and say ‘Thank You’ that’s also an achievement.

How would you describe Westin culture?

Communication and transparency, rewarding employees for their hard work and dedication. Creating a great culture is an ongoing process. To create a culture that lives and grows with your organization, you want to make changes on a continual basis. [The Westin does this through] quarterly trainings, with mentorship opportunities, and one-on-one sessions that help foster a positive culture.

How does ‘Heart of Westin’ resonate with you? How do you experience the ‘Heart of Westin’ as an associate?

I feel valued, respected, and supported. [There is a] great environment that encourages better productivity and a better experience at work.

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