Paving the Way for Tech Transformation in the Hospitality Industry

Nanki’s story echoes the experiences of women entrepreneurs who, like her, navigate the unpredictable waters of entrepreneurship while starting a family and how the twists and turns shaped her narrative. Her journey, from hotel management to co-founding Avalon Analytics, is a testament to her commitment to reshaping the hospitality sector through technology.

Nanki’s narrative challenges perceptions of what women can achieve in business while balancing the joys and responsibilities of parenthood. It serves as a compelling prelude to her insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the unique challenges she’s faced along the way.

In this conversation she shares a first- hand account of the journey many women are taking to build a successful company and a family at the same time. She shares her view that “women should not have to choose between starting a family and achieving commercial success; these two aspects of life can not only coexist but also support each other.” An inspiring discussion on approaching the biases against pregnant women and mothers, and one that would provide value to many – as it’s a choice many female founders are now not only making, but proving that this is a viable future for women in business.

An Interview with Nanki Singhsachthep

During our discussion with Nanki Singhsachthep, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Avalon Analytics, we delve into her pioneering journey in both the tech and hospitality industries.

Nanki’s recent recognition in the Inspiring Women in Travel Asia (IWTA) Awards sheds light on her focus alongside the Avalon team to change the standard for revenue management in the hotel industry.

Find the interview below and discover more about Nanki’s journey as a female leader in hospitality tech.

Q: Nanki, could you share some insights into the unique challenges and opportunities you believe female founders face in the tech industry?

Nanki: Of course! The tech industry has traditionally been male dominated, which can present challenges for female founders looking to establish themselves. However, this landscape is changing, and opportunities are growing for women to make their mark.

The challenge lies in overcoming stereotypes and preconceptions, but it’s also an opportunity to bring fresh perspectives and innovations to the table. I think it’s in our hands to shape the future, shake up the expectations and push past the ‘norms’.

Q: Your background boasts an impressive journey from hotel management to founding Avalon Analytics. How have your experiences influenced the development of your software system?

Nanki: My background in hotel management has provided me with a deep understanding of the hospitality industry’s pain points. This knowledge guided the design of Avalon Analytics, enabling us to create a solution that addresses real-world challenges hotels grapple with daily. I wanted to provide an intuitive platform that empowers hotel professionals with data-driven insights that could help grow revenue and operational efficiency.

I guess, in short, I wanted to make a tool that I needed when I was in the working in management, and I can proudly say that’s what we have created with Avalon.

Q: Avalon Analytics has already made a significant impact. How do you envision its role in the future of the hospitality industry?

Nanki: I see Avalon Analytics becoming an integral part of the hospitality industry’s evolution. The platform will continue to empower hoteliers with insights that drive strategic decision-making. As the industry embraces data-driven approaches, Avalon will be at the forefront, supporting hotels with instant insights. Our USP is our ability to adapt and customize, and the future of technology in hospitality is not generic streamlining but streamlining in way that is personalized to each hotel’s individual needs.

Q: Reflecting on your journey so far, is there anything you would have done differently?

Nanki: Looking back, I wouldn’t change the path I’ve taken. Every experience, success, and challenge has contributed to both my growth and the success of Avalon Analytics. Almost nothing has unfolded as expected. In some ways, we are nowhere near as successful as we hoped. In others, we far exceeded our initial dreams – Our experiences have taught me a lot and I am very proud of what we have achieved so far.

Q: You’ve been recognized as a Tech Trailblazer. How does this award resonate with you?

Nanki: Being a Tech Trailblazer signifies being a pioneer in the technology field, unafraid to push boundaries and drive change. This award acknowledges the importance of embracing technology in the hospitality industry, which is undergoing a transformative phase. It’s about bringing tangible value through innovation and staying relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Q: Congratulations on your baby! That is exciting news that opens more questions as a female leader. Balancing pregnancy, now motherhood and running a tech company is remarkable. Could you share any strategies you’ve used to manage these demands?

Nanki: It’s been a challenging yet fulfilling journey. Communication and delegation have been key. I’ve surrounded myself with a supportive team and ensured that responsibilities are shared. Setting clear priorities and boundaries, both personally and professionally, has helped maintain balance. Additionally, time management and embracing flexibility have been essential.

Q: How has you’re becoming a mother influenced your perspective on leadership and entrepreneurship in the tech sector?

Nanki: The pregnancy journey has reinforced the importance of resilience and adaptability. As a new mom, my body is constantly changing and that is out my control. The future is exciting and unknown. This has made me more empathetic and mindful as a leader.

It has also highlighted the significance of building a sustainable work culture that accommodates diverse life experiences, including those of working mothers.

Q: Can you share any strategies or approaches you’ve employed to balance the demands of being a new mom and running a successful tech software system?

Nanki: My advice would be to believe in yourself and your vision.

Simultaneously starting a business and raising a family is undeniably challenging, yet profoundly rewarding.  Surround yourself with a supportive network, both personally and professionally. Embrace flexibility, prioritise self-care, and remember that you can excel in both domains with the right balance.

I recently read an article highlighting that the average age women becoming mothers is 31 and the median age for founding a $1bn+ business is 34*. For women, motherhood and commercial success shouldn’t be a binary choice, the two are not only compatible but can be mutually reinforcing. There needs to be a recalibration of what we expect a startup founder to look like and tackle existing biases towards mothers in the workplace more generally, but especially those that are business leaders.

I’ve found one strategy that really works for me: putting everything in my schedule. I mean everything, from work-related tasks to those special moments leading up to childbirth.

It may sound a bit mundane, but it’s effective. It helps me listen to my body and give it the attention it needs. The key is not just scheduling but sticking to the plan. It ensures I manage both aspects of my life successfully and make time for the exciting and rewarding moments of pregnancy and motherhood.”

*The quote above is from Super Founders: What Data Reveals About Billion-Dollar Startups.

Q: As you reflect on your accomplishments, how do you feel about being a role model for aspiring women in the tech and hospitality sectors?

Nanki: Being a role model is an honour and a responsibility. I want to inspire women to follow their passions and shatter boundaries. By sharing my journey and experiences, I hope to encourage more women to step into leadership roles, embrace technology, and drive positive change within their respective industries.

Honestly, it’s not something that I had asked for, but I feel warm when somebody says something like that to me. It’s easy to look up to your role models, but strange to think of yourself as one. Do you know what I mean? I suppose this comes full circle to motherhood again.

Q: I certainly do! One final question, but it’s an important one for all of the young entrepreneur-come-mothers out there: What steps have you taken to ensure your well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance during this transformative period of your life?

Nanki: Well I touched on it before, but balance doesn’t come automatically. I understand that for some it feels natural, but for many it can be a struggle. This is why it’s so important to take a conscious approach to balancing your health, your personal time and your professional life.

I believe in being honest with yourself, and recognising early when you are leaning too far in one direction. Which by the way, it can happen in both directions, work-life or life-work.

As an expecting mother there is a lot of focus on whether we will fit the stereotype of someone who is struggling with a rollercoaster of emotions and the shift in our body’s chemistry, which is why it is important that you recognise that just because it might be a stereotype, doesn’t mean it has to be your truth. But to do this, you have to find your own balance, create a concrete work-life action plan and conquer those goals!

Nanki’s journey from hotel management to co-founding Avalon Analytics showcases her dedication to revolutionising the hospitality industry through technology. Her achievements, including winning the Tech Trailblazer Award, highlight her innovative spirit and commitment to driving positive change. Nanki’s story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, who can learn from her experience of balancing leadership, entrepreneurship, and motherhood.

Nanki’s vision and determination have set a new standard in the industry, emphasizing the power of technology to transform the way hotels operate. As she continues to pave the way for a more data-driven future, Nanki’s story remains a testament to the potential of combining passion, innovation, and a deep understanding of industry needs.