Rana Mukherji is a global hospitality professional and entrepreneur committed to setting the highest standards in both personal and professional spheres. With over 20 years of experience spanning luxury hospitality, technology, and asset management, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives worldwide, from hotel turnarounds to groundbreaking ventures. Known for his visionary approach and grounded demeanor, Rana focuses on fostering cultures of excellence, adaptability, and care. His leadership philosophy is driven by self-discipline, continuous improvement, and empowering others to achieve their full potential.
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your entrepreneurial journey/venture/initiative.
I was born in Jabalpur, India, and raised in a family that valued education, hard work, and kindness. My parents and sisters instilled in me a sense of responsibility, resilience, and the importance of staying true to my roots. Those early years shaped my identity as a grounded individual who values connection and self-improvement.
After studying in Bangalore, I left India in 2002 to pursue global aspirations. Each role, from entry-level to leadership, taught me humility and adaptability. Growing through the ranks, I realized that every job—no matter how big or small—was an opportunity to learn and evolve into a better version of myself.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business/initiative? What motivated you to say “YES, go for it!”
Before I take on any role or venture, I deeply introspect and align myself with the perspectives of customers, owners, and colleagues. This self-evaluation helps me understand the business holistically and determine how I can contribute to its success.
My entrepreneurial journey began with a passion for innovation and a belief that hospitality and technology could come together to create extraordinary experiences. Goldbck.com, for instance, was born from the desire to revolutionize loyalty programs using blockchain technology. The motivation to say “YES” came from my belief that the hospitality industry needed disruption and that I could drive meaningful change through vision and execution.
Tell us something about your initiative or current role. What is it about, and what impact are you trying to make?
In my current role, I manage a diverse portfolio that includes luxury hotels, resorts, and mixed-use properties globally, as well as assets for a royal family. My focus is on aligning business goals with strong leadership and engaged teams. I believe that every staff member, from the frontlines to the boardroom, has a crucial role in achieving success.
My aim is to foster a culture of growth, care, and excellence—where people feel empowered, customers receive bespoke experiences, and businesses achieve sustainable profitability. I’m hands-on, strategic, and committed to delivering results that align with long-term vision and values.
Your journey and your vision are very inspiring, but are there any achievements or accomplishments you would like to mention?
I’ve been fortunate to lead several successful business turnarounds, transforming loss-making hotels into profitable and award-winning properties. For example, my leadership helped various hotels worldwide achieve remarkable operational and financial growth, earning accolades such as “Hotel of the Year” and “Most Improved Hotel.”
On the entrepreneurial front, Goldbck.com has been recognized for its innovation, winning awards like the “Best Blockchain-Based Travel Loyalty Program” at the World Travel Tech Awards and the Middle East CEO of the Year – Customer Solutions. These achievements reflect my dedication to excellence, adaptability, and the power of collaborative leadership.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
Women have always been natural leaders, whether in their homes, businesses, or communities, and today the world is finally giving them the recognition they deserve. Their leadership style, rooted in empathy, resilience, and determination, is transforming workplaces globally. Personally, I owe much of my perspective on leadership to the incredible women in my life—my mother, sisters, wife, and now my young daughter. They’ve shown me that strength and compassion go hand in hand.
During my daughter’s early years, I worked from home and experienced just how much dedication and selflessness it takes to manage a household and nurture a family. That period was eye-opening and deepened my respect for the multitasking and adaptability women display in all spheres of life. Women leaders bring a unique perspective to the table, combining strategic thinking with empathy, and they are driving meaningful progress in businesses and beyond.
Women are a growing force in the workplace worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
To every young leader, especially women, my advice is to stay true to your values and lead with integrity. Leadership is not just about achieving milestones but about how you empower and inspire those around you. The greatest leaders are those who listen, connect, and create a shared vision for the future.
If I could inspire change, it would be to build a world where collaboration, inclusivity, and equity are at the forefront. I dream of an ecosystem where opportunities are accessible to everyone, and every individual—regardless of their background—is empowered to contribute their unique strengths.
Remember, leadership is a continuous journey of learning, introspection, and growth. It’s not just about reaching the top but lifting others along the way and leaving behind a legacy of positive impact. Women have a profound ability to do this naturally, and their leadership is shaping a better, more compassionate world.
What would you want to say to our young leaders/audience reading this?
I dream of a world where businesses prioritize collaboration over competition and sustainability over short-term gains. A world where every individual—regardless of their background or role—is valued and empowered.
As leaders, we have a responsibility to create environments that nurture growth, inclusivity, and shared success. By fostering cultures of care and collaboration, we can build businesses that not only thrive financially but also contribute to the well-being of people and communities. My vision is to inspire leaders who balance ambition with compassion and drive innovation with integrity.
Final Thoughts
Life is a journey of growth, introspection, and connection. I’ve learned that the key to success lies in staying grounded, embracing challenges, and striving for excellence in everything you do. Leadership is not just about achieving results but about creating meaningful relationships, empowering others, and leaving a legacy of care and integrity.
To every reader, I say: Believe in yourself, stay curious, and never stop evolving. Success is not a destination—it’s the journey of becoming the best version of yourself while lifting others along the way.
