Monisha Singla

Monisha Singla embarked on her journey as the founder of M & R Concessions in 2013. During her formative years, Monisha honed her skills by contributing her time and talents to her father’s restaurants, savoring the flavors of the food service industry. However, her insatiable thirst for knowledge led her down a different avenue, where she pursued a dual degree in Economics and Computer Science from New York University. 

Monisha established her own successful enterprise in the fast-paced IT consulting world. Yet, deep within her entrepreneurial spirit, Monisha wanted to return to the airport environment.

Driven by her profound love for both food service and management, Monisha took the bold step of founding M & R Concessions. Since its inception, M & R has flourished under her stewardship, boasting a multitude of concepts at New York’s JFK Airport. Monisha manages operations, human resources, and IT infrastructure and spearheads the development of innovative new concepts. 

Her passion for the venture has remained unwavering, with each new challenge serving as a wellspring of inspiration to elevate M & R into a veritable powerhouse. Monisha’s dedication continues to shine, ensuring that M & R Concessions stands as a beacon, proudly showcasing the finest food offerings New York has to offer at JFK.

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How did you get your start working at the airports or in aviation?

Monisha Singla: I grew up in the airports! My father had stores in JFK since the 90’s and I worked with him in the old Terminal 8 and 9. I remember what airports were like before TSA, and I still have my old AA (American Airlines) badge, which was laminated and oddly had my social security number on it. I didn’t think I’d end up in aviation, but it seems to be an industry that just pulls you in.

Was aviation your first choice for your career?

Monisha Singla: No! After graduating from NYU in 2004, I became a consultant and did web development for years. Then an opportunity came up, and I figured I’d give it a try, and I haven’t looked back since.

Is there an airport redevelopment project that you are most interested in seeing completed?

Monisha Singla: We are very excited about the entire JFK redevelopment. Each terminal is so unique in its own way that as each gets updated, it is amazing to see how an old terminal can become fresh and a new terminal can be built all at the same time.

What steps has your company taken to attract qualified workers?

Monisha Singla: We offer flexible schedules, paid time off, and, most importantly, consistency and the ability to grow. Most of our management has grown from within. We have team members who have been with us for over 10 years, and we plan to keep that going. We know the front lines bring in the money that pays us all. We have a “we all get our hands dirty” policy, and there is no job that we won’t all do.

How has networking or involvement in the Airport Community benefited your career?

Monisha Singla: John F. Kennedy International Airport is big, but our community is small! We are like a family and help each other out during weather events and other events like COVID. Being within the airport community has helped us to meet others and find potential opportunities.

What is the most memorable moment during your career in aviation or at the airports?

Monisha Singla: Opening our first full post security Dunkin’ in Terminal 8. It took a lot of time and planning, but it came out looking great and busy from day one! It was a challenging space for construction and operationally, but we have made it work with tight systems.

What is the most significant barrier to finding an airport job in our area?

Monisha Singla: There are many jobs at the airport, from working at concessions to working with airlines and many other positions in between. Badging is incredibly important for airport safety and security but adds complexity to the hiring process. Initially, the employee must take a security class and test and wait for a badge before starting their position. Following the initial issuance of a badge, they need to be renewed over time and always kept securely. 

What makes the New York metropolitan area unique to other aviation/airport markets?

Monisha Singla:New York City is unique in aviation due to its three major airports, JFK, LGA, and EWR, each playing distinct roles. JFK is a global gateway for international flights, handling a diverse range of passengers from around the world. LaGuardia focuses on domestic, short-haul flights, catering primarily to business and regional travelers. Newark serves both domestic and international passengers. These airports manage a high volume of air traffic, and our diverse passenger base spans languages, cultures, and travel purposes.