What began as a gesture of support became a transformative journey into leadership and success. In Bahrain, Remya Madan and her husband, Madan Perattur, built Remya Management from the ground up, spanning hospitality and fitness, into a portfolio that now includes some of the island’s favourite lifestyle hubs such as Black Angus, Texas Longhorn.
Now in its third edition, Business Leaders in the Middle East brings together sharp insights from across the region. These aren’t mere interviews; they’re windows into how leadership is evolving in a world shaped by rapid digital transformation. Technology touches nearly every industry now, and these leaders show us how to navigate change with purpose.
What was the initial challenge or gap you aimed to address when starting this business?
Ten years ago, I stepped into the hospitality industry primarily to support my husband, Madan Perattur, in whatever capacity I could. At the time, I had no prior business experience, so I learned everything alongside him, taking it one step at a time. From the outset, our goal was to create a warm, inviting space where guests not only enjoy top-notch amenities but also feel genuinely cared for and connected to the locale.
I firmly believe that without strong teams working across every department, business success is unattainable. Madan has been exceptional at assembling a unified and skilled team, which we take great pride in. Our achievements are entirely rooted in the strength and cohesion of our team.
What milestones has the company reached over the past two years?
In the last two years, we have expanded our business footprint and launched new outlets that have been warmly embraced by the market.
Can you describe a particularly challenging moment for your company in recent years and how you and your team managed it?
The global pandemic hit the hospitality industry hard, forcing us to temporarily shut down operations and rethink our business model from the ground up. Throughout this period, we maintained open and honest communication with our team, implemented rigorous health and safety measures, and diversified our services. The resilience and adaptability of our team were crucial in overcoming this crisis and setting the stage for our recovery.
How do you handle resistance or pushback towards organisational changes you implement?
We recognise that change can be unsettling, especially in a service-oriented environment. To ease resistance, we focus on clear communication about why changes are necessary and the benefits they bring. We involve team members early on in the planning stages and ensure they receive proper training and support. By fostering open conversations, we address concerns directly and welcome input, promoting a collaborative culture focused on ongoing improvement.
What do you believe sets your company apart from others in the region?
Our hallmark is delivering personalised guest experiences that blend exemplary service with authentic local connections. We have a knack for anticipating guest needs and crafting memorable moments that surpass typical hospitality standards. Additionally, our dedication to sustainability and community engagement sets us apart and resonates strongly with today’s mindful travellers.
How are AI and digital transformation influencing your industry, and how are you preparing your team mentally and skill-wise?
AI and digital innovation are transforming hospitality by enabling smarter resource allocation, predictive insights into guest preferences, and enhanced communication tools. We are investing in technology platforms that enable personalised marketing, dynamic pricing, and improved operational efficiency. Our team is encouraged to embrace a mindset of lifelong learning, supported by training programmes emphasising digital proficiency and data literacy to maintain our competitive edge and deliver innovative guest experiences.
Regarding customer experiences, what trends have caught you by surprise in recent years?
The swift shift to contactless menus, mobile ordering, and digital payments has fundamentally changed how guests interact with restaurants. What started as a necessity has rapidly become an expected standard for convenience and safety.
How do you manage stress as well as balance personal and professional responsibilities as a business leader?
Starting my day with a tough workout sets the tone. It gives me energy throughout the day. We manage two fitness facilities: Madan Fitness and Madan CrossFit. Each day, I dedicate an hour to CrossFit training, which contributes to keeping my stress levels low and maintaining my health and fitness.
My husband and children are incredibly supportive and understanding, and I must say, my kids are exceptionally independent. It is precisely because of this support that I am here today. Most importantly, I remind myself that success isn’t just about business growth, it’s also about the quality of life I’m creating for myself and my loved ones. That perspective helps guide my decisions and keep things in balance.
