Neha Mehrotra
07-Apr-2026
As part of our Women Who Lead series, we get in a conversation with Shilpa Rameja, General Manager, Taj Connemara, Chennai
Leadership, at its most meaningful, is often defined not by authority but by empathy, resilience and the ability to uplift others. For Shilpa Rameja, that journey has been anything but conventional. From navigating the demanding corridors of luxury hospitality to balancing the deeply personal role of being a single parent, her story is one of resilience, grace and unwavering self-belief. As the General Manager of Taj Connemara, Chennai, she brings with her not just years of experience but a people-first philosophy that continues to define her leadership.
In an interview with PEAKLIFE, she reflects on the moments that shaped her, the values she leads with, and why creating space for others to grow remains at the heart of everything she does.
1. How would you describe your journey so far, and how has it shaped the leader you are today?
My journey in hospitality has been deeply enriching, both professionally and personally. With the Taj, it has felt like one long success story. I started in sales with IHCL and over the past 15 years have had the opportunity to work with some of Taj’s most iconic properties in Rajasthan, Delhi, Hyderabad and now Chennai. Each of these tenures has taught me something different about people, resilience, and excellence.
These experiences have shaped my belief that leadership is ultimately about people. What has stayed constant is my focus on building strong teams and creating an environment where people feel trusted and empowered. I have learnt that when you invest in people and culture, performance naturally follows. That philosophy continues to guide me as a leader today.
2. What has been the biggest challenge in your journey, and how did you push through it?
Being a single parent while building a demanding career required resilience, discipline, and the ability to prioritise what truly matters. There were moments when the balancing act felt tough, but I always reminded myself why I started and what I wanted to build for my family and myself. What helped me push through was a combination of self-belief and the support of my family. Over time, I also realised that challenges often become your greatest teachers. They make you stronger, more empathetic, and more grounded as a leader.
3. As a General Manager, what is your vision for the property you lead, and how do you ensure your team aligns with that vision?
My vision is always to ensure that the hotel is not just known for its infrastructure or legacy, but for the experiences it creates and the culture it builds. At Taj Connemara, which is a heritage property with a deep legacy, it means respecting its incredible heritage while also keeping it relevant for today’s traveller.
On aligning teams with this vision, I believe in bringing teams into the vision rather than just presenting it to them. When people understand the “why” behind what we do and feel they are part of that journey, they naturally take ownership. For me, leadership is about creating that shared sense of purpose.
4. What is one moment in your journey, professional or personal, that makes you feel proud?
My proudest professional moment was stepping into the role of General Manager for the first time at Taj Wellington Mews Chennai, an all-women managed luxury property. It was a significant milestone in my career because it was my first GM assignment, and also because of what the property represented. Seeing women step into leadership roles and grow in confidence was incredibly fulfilling, and it remains one of the most meaningful chapters of my journey.
On a personal level, I also feel proud of being able to balance my responsibilities as a mother and a professional, and to show my son through example that with hard work and integrity, anything is possible.
5. How are you consciously giving back to the next generation — especially young women — through mentorship, leadership, or the ecosystem you’re building?
I see mentorship as a quiet but important responsibility. Sometimes it is not about formal programs but about everyday conversations, giving someone confidence before a big presentation, or encouraging them to take on a challenging role. I also consciously focus on giving women exposure to operational and leadership experiences because that is what truly prepares them for the next level. When you create opportunities and show trust early, you help build the next line of leaders.
6. What advice would you give to young women who are building their careers in the hospitality industry?
Believe in yourself unequivocally. Embrace your unique strengths and talents and never shy away from taking calculated risks. Seek out mentors and networks that can support and guide you on your journey. "You weren't given this life to be average" – so go out there, trust your gut, lend your personality to everything you do, and work hard. Remember, you have the power to make a significant impact and create positive change in any role you pursue. A personal message to all those who have or would cross paths in my journey professionally or personally -
"You are at a safe place with me, your dreams matter, your ambitions matter and I have your back because YOU MATTER.”
7. What excites you most about the future, personally & professionally?
Professionally, what excites me is how hospitality continues to evolve. Guests today are looking for more meaningful and personalised experiences, and that gives us the opportunity to constantly innovate while staying true to our core values.
Personally, I look forward to continuing to grow, learning something new every year and also making more time for the people who matter most to me.
8. What is your success mantra?
My success mantra is simple - stay authentic, stay consistent, and never stop learning. Gratitude is something that truly defines who I am and how I look at success. I strongly believe that success is not one big milestone but the result of small things done well every single day, and in being thankful for the opportunities and relationships that shape my journey.
I cherish kindness, love, and the little joys that bring true success and happiness. For me, people and relationships trump everything else, and it is important to see the good in others and embrace differences. Follow your dreams rather than following people, and focus on creating value wherever you are. I am who I am because of the blessings I count, the love I receive, and the empowering ecosystem that fuels my growth. Gratitude guides me and reminds me to embrace life’s moments with joy and appreciation.
