PIHMS Alumni Spotlight – Saurav Baraily

Introducing Saurav Baraily, who went from PIHMS Student President to PIHMS Degree Graduate to now working as a Tourist Officer within the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department for the Government of Sikkim, India

My time at PIHMS was awesome! 

My time at PIMHS was awesome as it gave me a lot more than just a qualification. PIHMS shaped a normal average student to a President of the Student Association, a manager and then now to a Tourist Officer for the Government of Sikkim.  

Thanks to my mom & late father for giving me the opportunity to study at PIHMS. Also, my special appreciation to the PIHMS Faculty and Family for shaping me into the person that I am today. 

As a PIHMS student I was able to gain hands-on experience in a range of areas such as hospitality operations, food & beverage service, front office, and housekeeping management and even event management. Along with the hands-on experience, I developed essential skills like communication, teamwork, problem solving and leadership.  

Life after PIHMS 

PIHMS has a strong relationship with hotel and hospitality employers and is what helped me secure a job after my graduation. Dedicated career counselors offering guidance, resume building, and interview preparation also provided external support.  

PIHMS provided me with some key advantages such as Job Placement Assistance, Networking Opportunities: events, guest lectures, and industry exposure and Alumni Network: connections with PIHMS graduates worldwide. 

Currently, I am based in my hometown Gangtok, Sikkim, India and working as a Tourist Officer, Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, India. I got into this job by the qualifications received from PIHMS and industry experience gained from the Hotel, Hospitality & Tourism related businesses in New Zealand and within my hometown Sikkim, India. 

I submitted my CV and educational qualifications to the State Government, who thoroughly reviewed my application and subsequently appointed me as a Tourist Officer. I am deeply grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamanag (Golay), for trusting in my abilities and granting me this opportunity.  

As a Tourist Officer, I overlook the Information & Publicity sector along with Civil Aviation under my first officer Deputy Director to the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim.  

My job plays a crucial role in promoting and developing tourism within the state. I have a range of key responsibilities I must oversee. To name a few:  

• Tourism Promotion: Showcase Sikkim’s attractions, culture, and experiences to national and international audiences.  

• Destination Development: Identify areas for development, improve infrastructure, and enhance tourist facilities. 

• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with local communities, tour operators, hoteliers, and travel agents. 

• Marketing and Branding: Create promotional materials, manage social media, and participate in travel trade shows. 

• Visitor Services: Ensure quality tourist information, assistance, and handle grievance. 

• Research and Statistics: Analyze tourism trends, collect data, and prepare reports.  

• Event Management: Organize festivals, cultural events, and conferences to attract tourists.  

• Sustainable Tourism: Promote eco-friendly practices, responsible tourism, and environmental conservation. 

This industry is my passion! 

This industry provides me with the platform to meet people from diverse backgrounds, communities, culture etc. along with travelling to different places representing the State in various Tourism Festivals across the country. Lastly, it also provides me the opportunity to be the Liaison Officers to many State Guests. 

I chose this industry because it teaches you to become the best version of yourself, follow discipline and lead by example. 

My tips and tricks for anyone keen on the industry 

To those who want to get into the Hotel, Hospitality and Tourism industry, I highly recommend gaining some industry experience or by attending a school like PIHMS where you develop transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, communication and adaptability. You also gain the skills to network with industry representees. 

Lastly, stay positive and persistent, overcome rejections, and keep working towards your goals. Remember, getting into the Hotel, Hospitality and Tourism industry requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Good luck!