Anita Basnet is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Lemon Tree Premier, Budhanilkantha, where she leads the hotel's sales strategies and marketing initiatives to drive business growth and enhance brand presence. In this role, she oversees client relationships, market expansion, and revenue optimization, contributing significantly to the hotel's success in a competitive hospitality market.
Can you share a bit about your journey in the hospitality industry?
I started my career in hospitality in 2014, and it was quite challenging for me as a woman in this industry. But I was never afraid. I embraced the challenges with determination. I would go door-to-door for sales calls, working tirelessly without worrying about time, always eager to learn and grow.
I've worked at various hotels across Nepal, including Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara, Bhairahawa, Janakpur, and Biratnagar. Travelling alone to many parts of India like Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Delhi, and Mumbai as well as other Asian and European countries, has been part of my journey.
My passion for learning and embracing challenges has always driven me forward. I believe in staying positive and constantly improving myself.
What inspired you to pursue a career in sales and marketing for hotels?
I pursued a career in hotel sales and marketing because I genuinely enjoy learning new things and expanding my knowledge in a constantly evolving industry. Meeting guests from diverse backgrounds gives me the opportunity to connect with people, understand their preferences, and deliver personalized experiences that exceed their expectations. I thrive under pressure, as it challenges me to think strategically, stay focused, and perform at my best even in demanding situations. These challenges not only motivate me but also help me grow both personally and professionally, pushing me to continuously improve my skills and contribute effectively to the success of the hotel.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?
I’m proud to have gained valuable knowledge of both the eastern and western parts of Nepal, as well as Kathmandu. I’ve also had the privilege of working on pre-opening hotels, where I was able to successfully achieve the budget targets set by the owner.
How do you maintain your personal and work-life balance in such a demanding industry?
I maintain balance by managing my time efficiently, dedicating focused periods for both work and personal life. Keeping personal matters separate from work helps me stay clear-headed and prevents one area from overwhelming the other. These practices help me sustain a healthy work-life balance that supports both my productivity and well-being.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in a leadership role, and how have you overcome them?
I built confidence over time by embracing challenges and learning from each experience, which helped me grow both personally and professionally. Alongside this, I continuously worked on improving my skills through training, hands-on experience, and seeking feedback. At the same time, I focused on creating a strong support network of mentors, colleagues, and peers who provided guidance, encouragement, and collaboration. Throughout this journey, I maintained balance by practicing assertiveness using clear, open communication to foster understanding and build trust.
What advice do you give young women aspiring to leadership roles in hospitality?
Young women aspiring to leadership in hospitality should build confidence, develop strong networks, and keep learning to stay competitive. Confidence helps overcome challenges and assert ideas, while networks and mentorship open doors and provide support. Continuous learning ensures adaptability in a fast-changing industry. Don’t be afraid to take risks and show initiative because your voice matters and can drive positive change. By stepping up, women leaders inspire others and help shape a more inclusive, dynamic hospitality industry.
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