Niketa Sharma is a dedicated, driven and passionate restaurateur who has set her mark in the male-dominated hospitality industry. Hailing from Mumbai and daughter of Pradeep Sharma – a former top police officer – and Swikriti Sharma – a jewellery designer – Ms Sharma completed her MBA in international hospitality from the renowned Les Roche, Switzerland. In 2015, she set up The Thane Club – which owns five restaurants in Mumbai. Ms Sharma is currently working on expanding her signature brand, Blah, to multiple cities. In a lively conversation with Sharmila Chand, Ms Sharma talks about her passion, work and life.

How do you define yourself?

A determined hard worker who is set to make waves in the F&B (food and beverage) and real estate industries

What is your philosophy of life?

As disciplined and focused I am, I am very chilled out and relaxed with my team.

What is your passion in life?

I dedicate all my time thinking about my work and how I can make my mark in the industry.

What is your management mantra?

Making a decision and then working on it to make it right

What is your work philosophy?

A very relaxed and calm boss who believes that the key to a successful business is keeping your employees happy

Business leaders you admire the most…

Ratan Tata for his work ethic and commendable people’s skills; Chef Vikas Khanna’s dedication that took him from the streets of Amritsar to New York

Your source of inspiration…

My father is my biggest source of inspiration. He is the guiding light who pushes me to believe in myself and my work.

What do you enjoy the most in life?

I am deeply, madly and hopelessly in love with my work. I also love to go out on long drives, listen to my favourite songs and have my three fur babies – Oreo, Pogo and Gogo – as my passengers.

What is your fitness regime?

I have recently shifted to Yoga and Pilates to keep myself fit and healthy.

Ten years from now, where do we see you?

I see myself expanding my brand portfolio manifolds and venturing into real estate too.