Sri Venkata Srinivasan: Driven By Leadership Rooted In Purpose & Passion
Sri Venkata Srinivasan
Vice President
Among this distinguished group is a name that commands both admiration and curiosity, Sri Venkata Srinivasan, Vice President of The Abduz, and one of the youngest minds in India’s hospitality sector to achieve what many deemed improbable, which is becoming the youngest General Manager in the country’s hospitality industry to successfully lead a hotel to 5-star classification under the Ministry of Tourism, India.
Armed with an All India Rank 2 in Hotel Management and Catering Technology from SRM, Sri Venkata’s journey reflects more than just academic brilliance. It reveals the power of courage, clarity, and relent less execution.
At just 22, he took on a challenge few would dare, moving to Ladakh, a region as demanding in climate as it is in culture to help build some thing extraordinary. With no contacts, no knowledge of Hindi and no prior experience of the terrain, he stepped into the unknown. But it was here, far from familiar grounds, that his leadership was forged.
By 25, he was appointed General Manager of The Abduz. By 28, he led the hotel to secure its official 5-star classification under the Ministry of Tourism, becoming the youngest in India to do so. His story is of transformation, not just of a hotel but of possibilities. From housekeeping to the boardroom, from the South to the summits, Sri Venkata represents a new wave of alumni leadership, fearless, purpose-driven, and committed to lifting others as they rise. Let’s hear more from him.
What was your proudest moment at The Abduz so far?
There are many milestones, but leading The Abduz as General Manager at the age of 25 stands out. More so, successfully guiding it to become an officially classified 5-star hotel under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, by the age of 28 is something I will always cherish.
But for me, it wasn’t about the title. It was about shattering the
assumptions people make based on age back ground, or language. It proved that if you have vision, belief, execution skills, and the right people beside you, no goal is too big.
How did your time at SRM University influence your leadership and mindset?
SRM was far more than just an academic institution for me it was a transformational journey. Academically, it gave me a solid foundation in strategy, management, and hospitality. But the real game-changer was what happened outside the classroom.
SRM encouraged us to question the norm, to think independently, and to lead from the front. The faculty were more than teachers, they were mentors. Their accessibility and guidance shaped how I view leadership today, not as control, but as empowerment and trust.
Do you have a specific memory from SRM that still drives you?
Absolutely. Securing All India Rank 2 in Hotel Management and Catering Technology is a moment etched in my heart. I wasn’t a top student during my school years, I was average by most standards. But SRM allowed me to grow through passion, discipline, and purpose.
That ranking wasn’t just a number. It represented a shift in belief, that you don’t need to be the best in the room to be the best version of yourself. It gave me the self-confidence I carry into every room I walk into today.
Could you describe your leadership style and the principles or methods you rely on when leading a team?
My leadership is built on a clear vision and a strong sense of accountability. I believe that a true leader does more than just provide direction, they inspire a deeper purpose within their team. At The Abduz, I work to foster an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to make meaningful contributions. I lead by example by staying involved on the ground to build trust and encourage ownership.
I prioritize empowering my team by encouraging autonomy and creative problem-solving rather than micromanaging. I also believe in continuous learning, seeking regular feedback and staying updated on industry trends while investing in the growth of both myself and my team. To me, leadership is a responsibility to uplift others and create new leaders, not just followers.
How did your time at SRM University influence your leadership and mindset?
SRM was far more than just an academic institution for me it was a transformational journey. Academically, it gave me a solid foundation in strategy, management, and hospitality. But the real game-changer was what happened outside the classroom.
SRM encouraged us to question the norm, to think independently, and to lead from the front. The faculty were more than teachers, they were mentors. Their accessibility and guidance shaped how I view leadership today, not as control, but as empowerment and trust.
I believe curiosity is a leader’s best friend. The future belongs to those who are not just in -formed, but also fearless in experimentation
Do you have a specific memory from SRM that still drives you?
Absolutely. Securing All India Rank 2 in Hotel Management and Catering Technology is a moment etched in my heart. I wasn’t a top student during my school years, I was average by most standards. But SRM allowed me to grow through passion, discipline, and purpose.
That ranking wasn’t just a number. It represented a shift in belief, that you don’t need to be the best in the room to be the best version of yourself. It gave me the self-confidence I carry into every room I walk into today.
Could you describe your leadership style and the principles or methods you rely on when leading a team?
My leadership is built on a clear vision and a strong sense of accountability. I believe that a true leader does more than just provide direction, they inspire a deeper purpose within their team. At The Abduz, I work to foster an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to make meaningful contributions. I lead by example by staying involved on the ground to build trust and encourage ownership.
I prioritize empowering my team by encouraging autonomy and creative problem-solving rather than micromanaging. I also believe in continuous learning, seeking regular feedback and staying updated on industry trends while investing in the growth of both myself and my team. To me, leadership is a responsibility to uplift others and create new leaders, not just followers.
What's your core leadership philosophy?
I lead with vision and a sense of responsi bility. My style is simple and rooted in three core principles: Lead by example. Empower, don’t micromanage. And always keep learning.
Leadership isn’t about control, it’s about enabling others to thrive and becoming better yourself in the process. I see my role as creating leaders, not followers.
How do you stay updated with a fast evolving hospitality industry?
In any industry, standing still is the same as falling behind. I focus on three key habits to stay sharp, namely Continuous learning, Meaningful networking, On-ground feedback.
I believe curiosity is a leader’s best friend. The future belongs to those who are not just informed, but also fearless in experimentation.
What is the ultimate destination you're heading toward in your career?
My journey has only just begun. I want to be more than a hotelier, I want to become a catalyst for purpose driven change. I envision exploring multiple verticals, crossing industries, and building models that fuse innovation with integrity.
Ladakh, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. I want to give back, by creating world-class platforms rooted in regional identity, by creating jobs, and by sparking entrepreneurship in young minds. For me, the ultimate goal is to leave behind not just a name, but a legacy that uplifts others.
Sri Venkata Srinivasan, Vice President, The Abduz
Passionate and purpose-driven leader who became the youngest General Manager in India’s hospitality industry to successfully lead a hotel to 5-star classification under the Ministry of Tourism. With an All India Rank 2 in Hotel Management from SRM University, his journey reflects relentless ambition, bold execution, and a commitment to redefining possibilities. From humble beginnings to setting national benchmarks, he continues to inspire young dreamers to lead with vision, values, and courage.
•Hobbies: Long Drives, Turning ideas into action and challenges into oppo -runities.
•Favorite Cuisine: Anything that blends culture, comfort and a touch of spice or sweet, just like life.
•Favorite Travel Destination: Ladakh, where my journey transformed into a mission.
•Favorite Book: How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge by Clay Scroggins
I lead with vision and a sense of responsi bility. My style is simple and rooted in three core principles: Lead by example. Empower, don’t micromanage. And always keep learning.
Leadership isn’t about control, it’s about enabling others to thrive and becoming better yourself in the process. I see my role as creating leaders, not followers.
How do you stay updated with a fast evolving hospitality industry?
In any industry, standing still is the same as falling behind. I focus on three key habits to stay sharp, namely Continuous learning, Meaningful networking, On-ground feedback.
I believe curiosity is a leader’s best friend. The future belongs to those who are not just informed, but also fearless in experimentation.
What is the ultimate destination you're heading toward in your career?
My journey has only just begun. I want to be more than a hotelier, I want to become a catalyst for purpose driven change. I envision exploring multiple verticals, crossing industries, and building models that fuse innovation with integrity.
Ladakh, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. I want to give back, by creating world-class platforms rooted in regional identity, by creating jobs, and by sparking entrepreneurship in young minds. For me, the ultimate goal is to leave behind not just a name, but a legacy that uplifts others.
Sri Venkata Srinivasan, Vice President, The Abduz
Passionate and purpose-driven leader who became the youngest General Manager in India’s hospitality industry to successfully lead a hotel to 5-star classification under the Ministry of Tourism. With an All India Rank 2 in Hotel Management from SRM University, his journey reflects relentless ambition, bold execution, and a commitment to redefining possibilities. From humble beginnings to setting national benchmarks, he continues to inspire young dreamers to lead with vision, values, and courage.
•Hobbies: Long Drives, Turning ideas into action and challenges into oppo -runities.
•Favorite Cuisine: Anything that blends culture, comfort and a touch of spice or sweet, just like life.
•Favorite Travel Destination: Ladakh, where my journey transformed into a mission.
•Favorite Book: How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge by Clay Scroggins