COVER STORY – HILTON SANDTON
Iconic Hilton Sandton - remains a classic choice for conferencing Set among landscaped gardens and suburban surroundings, Hilton Sandton is located just north of Johannesburg, in the city’s business district. Delegates and guests have easy access to the Gautrain, Stock Exchange, Global Banking Institutions and Nelson Mandela Square. Modern guest rooms and a host of amenities make the hotel the ideal base for exploring Sandton.
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inda Reddy, general manager of Hilton Sandton, said: “My vision for Hilton Sandton is to ensure that we are the leading hotel in creating heartfelt experiences for our guests. My aim is to ensure the growth of a sustainable business with a positive impact on my team and in our communities. In one word, I would describe Hilton Sandton as ‘classic’.” Ms Reddy began working in the hotel industry at the age of sixteen, while she was completing a science degree. “I have worked across all aspects of the business operations from receptionist, finance to assistant general manager. My first general manager position was in 2007 at the Garden Court Sandton and I have been at 6 Business Events Africa May 2021
the helm of Hilton Sandton since July 2019.” “Hilton Sandton caters for all segments and markets, from families to large conference groups and the business traveller. We have the perfect location. But what differentiates us from other hotels is our people and the service culture that is instilled in them. Our commitment to Travel with Purpose ensures that we run a responsible business and give back to the communities in which we operate. “I believe completely in empowerment of team members to achieve a common vision and my personal motto is ‘Nothing works unless you do’. Hilton has six key values and the one which really resonates with me is ownership. It speaks to me of
owning every guest experience, every team member interaction and most importantly, being in control of your own destiny,” Ms Reddy added. Business in Covid times Considering how business has changed due to Covid-19, she said: “Foremost the volume of business has plummeted and there has been a good uptake of domestic leisure business. “Booking lead times have shortened, so planning has taken on a new meaning. We have had to look at our business in a new way and have become more flexible and adaptable to changing guest needs. Cleanliness is paramount but guests still travel for great experiences and that is www.businesseventsafrica.com
