Here Is What Pooja Verma, Director Of Security Has To Say About Her Work, Life!

Challenging the stereotypes of a generally male-dominated sector, her first assignment was with Jet Airways as Security Assistant at Delhi Airport where she worked for 4 years. She later joined GMR of Terminal 3 as a pre-opening team member and was involved in core activities for 2 years. Thereafter continuing to work at Kempinski Hotel, New Delhi as an Assistant Security Manager and worked for 2.5 years.

Pooja Verma gained further exposure and opportunity for career enhancement when she was selected for an International transfer as Assistant Duty Manager-Security with Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, managed by Kempinski. After working with JW Marriott Marquis Dubai in the capacity of Assistant Security Manager, she moved back to India and joined Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty in 2017 as the Director of Security as part of the pre-opening team and have played a vital role in ensuring safety across the property, from the inauguration to the day-to-day conferences and events at the hotel and convention centre. In a crisp interview with HerZindagi, Pooja Verma, Director of Security at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, said that she is not a quitter! 

Being In The Field For So Long, Growing & Emerging In A Profession Which Did Not See Many Women, How Has The Journey Been? 

I started my career in 2006 and have come a long way since then. With 13 years’ experience in the field of security, my journey so far has been full of challenges and lessons. I am thankful to Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty for believing in me and giving me a platform to grow in this industry.

Agreed It's A Cliche Question, But, How Did You Deal With Stubborn Men Who We Both Know Exist In Every Field, Cannot See A Woman As Their Boss Or As An Equal?

I do accept we have stubborn men in this field. We cannot change anyone, we can only change their attitude towards the situation. Stubborn can be good or bad in different situations. So, depending on the situation I strategically plan the right words and take it forward with respect and dignity.

What Is It Like To Balance A Job Which Needs A Lot Of Your Mind & Time, With Your Personal Life? 

I make it a point to keep personal and professional life separate. My personal time is extremely important for me as I have a 10-year-old daughter who is waiting for me. The moment I step out of work I make sure I leave everything behind.

Did You Ever Feel So Exhausted That You Wanted To Quit? And If You Did Feel So, What Made You Jump Back Into The Race? 

'Winners never quit and quitters never win'.

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What Are The Most Cliched Lines You Have Had To Swallow With A Pinch Of Salt In Your Work Environment?

I am from Jalandhar, born and brought up in Delhi, married a Malayali and moved South. Since my youth, I have moved to different places, and hence, I can adapt easily. I always believe in myself and take every situation positively. When I am criticised I take it positively and double my hard work in order to reach success.

Message For Our Women Readers

My message is: your value does not decrease based on someone’s inability to see your worth. Always believe in yourself.