Sofia Kumar: Journey of Redefining Hospitality from Hotels to Corporate Spaces
Sofia is a National Account Director at Sodexo India, responsible for workplace experience for a large multinational pharmaceutical company. She was drawn into the world of hospitality by the captivating grace of her mother.
As a young girl, she was mesmerized by her mother's daily preparations for work. Her mother, who worked at a hotel, inspired Sofia’s fervent desire to follow a career in hospitality. She vividly remembers accompanying her mother to her workplace, where she was struck by the courtesy and warmth in the hotel environment that defined hospitality.
My greatest source of inspiration has always been my mother,
Sofia reflects
Fuelled by her passion for hospitality and her innate ability to connect with people, she thrived on creating positive experiences for others.
After graduating with a degree in Hotel Management, Sofia honed her skills through an intensive 18-month management training program at ITC Welcome Group Management Institute.
Joining Sodexo marked a significant shift in her perspective – moving from managing hotels to redefining hospitality in the corporate world. It meant creating workplace experiences where people can perform their best and thrive. While the core services remained the same – front office, housekeeping, technical services, and food services – the context was different.
"In hotels, it's their own buildings, "she points out.
Whereas these are not our own offices, right? We perform the services for another brand.
Sofia is responsible for managing workplace experiences and facilities for a multinational pharmaceutical giant – a role she considers a privilege. Her passion for hospitality is evident in the hospitality and innovation framework she has contributed towards, which focuses on people, product, performance, and planet in workplaces. She works closely with the site’s senior leaders, ensuring that their corporate offices provide a productive and hospitable environment for employees.
One of the many initiatives Sofia has undertaken is the introduction of "Local Love," a thoughtful initiative incorporating local short-eat snacks and boardroom refreshments while paying tribute to regional flavors. It came from her passion for adding an extra touch of hospitality. Besides this, she has spearheaded 100+ initiatives at Sodexo, each contributing positively to business growth.
As one of the fastest-growing professionals in operations at Sodexo India, Sofia has played a key role in transforming and improving the profitability of several sites under her management. Her outstanding performance earned her a place in the mentorship program.
"Through Sodexo’s mentorship program, I have the privilege of being mentored by Sambit Sahu, MD, Sodexo India. The experience has reinforced my commitment to creating a positive work environment and mentoring my team."
Sofia mentors her team not just in their roles but also in financial independence – something she believes is key to navigating life’s challenges. Although she humbly states,
My team's support empowers me, just as I strive to empower them
she clearly values her team’s contributions. She recognizes the unique challenges many women face – balancing work, household responsibilities, and childcare – and offers them unwavering support and encouragement.
While Sofia acknowledges that younger generations of women entering the workforce are smart and well-balanced, she emphasizes the importance of passion and dedication.
You've to be passionate about what you do,"
she asserts