Umesh Shrestha serves as the Sales & Marketing Manager at Best Western Plus Kathmandu—where global hospitality blends with local warmth. With a career spanning more than 14 years in sales and marketing, and over five years of dedicated experience within the hotel industry, he brings a wealth of expertise in building strong client relationships, developing innovative strategies, and driving brand visibility.
Known for his ability to combine creative vision with practical execution, he has successfully navigated countless sales targets (more than most television series have seasons) while consistently delivering measurable results. His work extends beyond achieving numbers; he is committed to creating memorable guest experiences that ensure Best Western Plus Kathmandu stands out as more than just a place to stay—it becomes a destination in itself.
Passionate about showcasing the unique charm of the property, he is dedicated to positioning Best Western Plus Kathmandu as the preferred choice for a wide range of travellers, whether they seek spiritual retreats, business escapes, or cultural adventures in the heart of Nepal’s vibrant capital.
Can you walk us through your experience in sales and marketing?
Gladly! My journey started in mainstream sales and marketing, where I learned how to connect dots—and people. Over the years, I mastered client management, lead generation, promotional campaigns, and turning “maybes” into loyal customers. Then came my favorite chapter: hospitality sales.
Here at Best Western Plus Kathmandu, I manage both corporate and leisure segments, craft tailor-made travel and event packages, run targeted campaigns, and help bridge the gap between guest expectations and operational delivery. I’ve closed deals at trade shows, over lunch meetings, and even while stuck in Kathmandu traffic (true story!). Sales isn’t just my job—it’s my sport.
How would you position this hotel in a competitive local market to differentiate it from other hotels?
Simple: we’re the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and charisma. Best Western Plus Kathmandu is just a hop away from the airport and the holy Pashupatinath Temple, making it ideal for pilgrims, tourists, business travelers, and everyone in between.
We offer:
- 84 modern, well-furnished rooms
- A 360° view rooftop restaurant—yes, the view is *chef’s kiss*
- Two beautiful banquet halls for weddings, seminars, product launches, or “just-because” parties
Add to that our professional service team, global brand backing, and local hospitality touch—and you’ve got a hotel that’s not just a place to stay, but a place to remember.
How do you support and develop team members while ensuring they remain accountable for delivering results?
My leadership mantra: Train hard. Celebrate harder. And always keep the coffee flowing.
I believe in mentorship over micromanagement. I make sure my team has:
- Clear goals (with realistic targets—no “mission impossible” here)
- Ongoing training sessions (with some laughter and learning mixed in)
- Weekly catch-ups to share wins, challenges, and yes, memes too
Accountability doesn’t have to be stressful—it can be exciting when the team feels involved, trusted, and part of a shared vision. And nothing beats the joy of watching a team member grow into a confident sales star!
What challenges do you anticipate in launching a new hotel, and how would you prepare the team to overcome them?
Ah, launching a new hotel? It’s like opening a restaurant on MasterChef—you’ve got to impress from the first bite (or in our case, the first booking).
Challenges?
- Lack of initial awareness
- New team learning the ropes
- Building trust in a crowded market
Solutions?
- A loud and proud pre-opening marketing blitz
- Building local partnerships and buzz through influencers and travel agents
- Staff training with a twist—role plays, hotel walkthroughs, even mock guest sessions
- Focusing on “first 100 guests” experiences to build powerful word-of-mouth
Basically, we go live not just with rooms, but with confidence, clarity, and a killer first impression.
What’s the most rewarding part of being a Sales and Marketing Manager in the hospitality industry?
There’s something magical about seeing your ideas come to life—from a concept on a whiteboard to a buzzing event in our banquet hall. Whether it’s a happy bride, a returning business guest, or a group of tourists checking out with smiles and selfies, knowing you played a part in creating that experience is incredibly fulfilling.
Plus, I get to meet people from all over the world, network like a pro, and represent a hotel I truly believe in. Every day is different, every challenge is exciting, and every win is worth celebrating (preferably with cake).
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