Holiday Inn GM Leads Brevard Hospitality

Kapur stands out in community service, too

New Delhi native Puneet Kapur moved to Florida 13 years ago to complete his postgraduate education in finance, but he was unexpectedly drawn into the hospitality industry. Now, he can’t imagine taking any other path.

Known as “PK” to his friends and colleagues, he started as a front desk clerk 10 years ago. Today, he’s made his way to the top — serving as general manager for the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Palm Bay. PK will lead his property’s 10-year anniversary celebration later this year which will highlight the facility’s recent $2 million renovation.

His time with the hotel has been fruitful, with the property earning InterContinental Hotels’ “Torch Bearer” Award in 2017 and 2018, for guest satisfaction and quality excellence.

When asked why his hotel has received so many awards over the years, PK said much of the hotel’s business comes from local referrals — friends and family members of local residents who know the facility’s reputation for quality and customer service excellence. They are happy to express their satisfaction, and their loyalty serves as a catalyst for the staff to always provide the best possible service, every day.

“I see some of the same guests every holiday season and am so pleased they’ve decided to call our environment an extended part of their own homes,” he said.

“This business is full of challenges,” he added. “No day is the same as the one before. It’s part of what I love about it.”

PK is a well-known fixture in the local community, having actively served on many boards over the years, including as chairman for the Brevard Tourist Development Council and Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he has been an active member of the Melbourne Chamber and Economic Development Council of Brevard County, among other organizations.

Since moving to the U.S., giving back to the community has always been at the heart of PK’s mission. On his own, he actively supports the Humane Society, but as a hospitality leader, he gets his staff in on the action, as well. 

“Our first responders and law enforcement have had a challenge recently with the covid pandemic and even outside of this unique period in history. They are the ones we count on every day to keep us safe,” PK said. “So in recent months, our hotel decided to serve free meals to these individuals, to show our appreciation. It’s the least we could do during these trying times.”

So what does PK do when he has a free moment or two? 

“I enjoy heading to the shooting range once a week and practice clay pigeon shooting, but honestly, I enjoy just about any outdoor activity on Florida’s beautiful Space Coast.”

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Palm Bay

1206 Malabar Rd. SE, Palm Bay

321-220-2003

ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/palm-bay/mlbpf/hoteldetail 

Facebook: /HolidayInnPalmBay/

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