Harshwardhan Dhavale joins as Food & Beverage Manager

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Strengthening the management team

The hotel has elevated Amartya Chakraborty as Director of Operations, while welcoming Abhijit Masurkar as Director of Sales & Marketing, Chander Joshi as Assistant Director of Revenue Management, and Harshwardhan Dhavale as Food & Beverage Manager, bringing together more than five decades of collective hospitality experience across some of the industry’s most respected brands.

Enhancing the hotel’s culinary and guest experience offerings, Harshwardhan Dhavale joins as Food & Beverage Manager. Bringing 16 years of experience, he has worked with renowned brands including Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton Mumbai, DoubleTree by Hilton, ibis, Grand Mercure Bengaluru, Della Adventure, and Taj Residency. His extensive operational experience and guest-centric approach will play a key role in further elevating the hotel’s restaurants, banqueting operations, and destination dining experiences.

General Manager’s perspective

Kunal Shanker, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, “The hospitality industry is evolving rapidly, with guest expectations extending far beyond traditional hotel stays. Success today depends on creating seamless experiences across accommodation, dining, celebrations, events, and every guest touchpoint. These leadership appointments reflect our commitment to building a future-ready team that combines commercial expertise, operational excellence, and a guest-first mindset. Amartya’s elevation, alongside the addition of Abhijit, Chander, and Harshwardhan, brings diverse strengths that will further enhance our business performance, service standards, and innovation. Together, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of growth for Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach while delivering exceptional value to our guests, partners, and associates.”

Abhijit Masurkar joins the hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Leading the commercial function, Abhijit Masurkar joins the hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing with over 20 years of experience in hospitality sales and business development. Having held leadership roles with IHCL (Taj & Vivanta), The Leela Palace, and Hilton, he brings deep expertise in market strategy, stakeholder engagement, and revenue generation. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening the hotel’s market positioning, driving commercial performance, and expanding opportunities across corporate, leisure, weddings, and MICE segments.

Chander Joshi has been appointed Assistant Director of Revenue Management.

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Further strengthening the hotel’s commercial capabilities, Chander Joshi has been appointed Assistant Director of Revenue Management. With over 14 years of experience, he has worked with leading hospitality brands including Holiday Inn (IHG), DoubleTree by Hilton, Le Méridien, The Lalit, and The Leela. His expertise in revenue optimisation, demand forecasting, pricing strategy, and distribution management will support the hotel’s continued focus on maximising performance across diverse business segments in an increasingly dynamic hospitality landscape.

Abhijit Masurkar joins the hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Strengthening the management team

The hotel has elevated Amartya Chakraborty as Director of Operations, while welcoming Abhijit Masurkar as Director of Sales & Marketing, Chander Joshi as Assistant Director of Revenue Management, and Harshwardhan Dhavale as Food & Beverage Manager, bringing together more than five decades of collective hospitality experience across some of the industry’s most respected brands.

Having served as Director of Sales & Marketing at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach since 2022, Amartya Chakraborty has been promoted to Director of Operations, marking a significant leadership transition for the hotel. With nearly two decades of hospitality experience and over a decade with Accor. His journey within Accor includes the successful completion of the Leadership Master Program and a strategic task force assignment at Mercure Kathmandu. He will oversee the hotel’s overall operations with a focus on enhancing service excellence, operational efficiencies, employee engagement, and seamless guest experiences across accommodation, food & beverage, weddings, banquets, and events.

Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall appoints Maria Candice Rodrigues as Revenue Manager

Rodrigues will lead the hotel's revenue management strategy, overseeing pricing, forecasting, distribution and commercial performance.

Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall has announced the appointment of Maria Candice Rodrigues as its Revenue Manager, further strengthening the hotel’s commercial leadership as it continues to focus on strategic growth and revenue optimisation.

Role and responsibilities

In her new role, Candice will lead the hotel’s revenue management function, overseeing pricing strategy, demand forecasting, inventory optimisation and distribution management to maximise commercial performance. She will work closely with the sales, reservations and operations teams to identify new revenue opportunities and support the hotel’s overall business objectives.

Her key priorities will include strengthening the hotel’s commercial performance through data-driven pricing strategies, enhancing forecasting accuracy, optimising distribution channels and identifying new revenue opportunities across market segments. She will also focus on fostering cross-functional collaboration to drive sustainable RevPAR growth and maximise the hotel’s long-term profitability.

Professional background

Candice joins Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall from Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, where she served as Assistant Manager – Revenue. During her tenure, she played a key role in driving pricing strategy, forecasting demand, managing inventory and analysing market trends across rooms and convention business.

She was also involved in the implementation of Opera Cloud and IDEAS Revenue Management System, further strengthening the property’s revenue planning and operational efficiency. Prior to this, Candice held roles in Reservations at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, ibis Chennai City Centre and Alila Diwa Goa, building a strong foundation in hotel distribution, reservations strategy and commercial operations before transitioning into Revenue Management.

General Manager’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Ram Shetty, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall, said, “We are delighted to welcome Maria to Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall. Her analytical mindset, commercial acumen and experience in revenue strategy make her a valuable addition to our team. As we continue to focus on driving profitable growth, strengthening our direct booking channels, and optimizing overall commercial performance, Candice’s expertise will be instrumental in enhancing our revenue strategies and maximizing business opportunities across all segments. We are confident that her expertise will help strengthen our revenue performance and support the hotel’s continued growth.”

Revenue Manager’s perspective

Speaking about her appointment, Candice, Revenue Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall said, “I am thrilled to join Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall and be part of a team that is committed to excellence in hospitality. Revenue management is about understanding changing market dynamics and making informed decisions that create long-term value. What excites me most about this opportunity is the ability to combine data-driven insights with strong cross-functional collaboration to develop agile commercial strategies that deliver measurable results. With Bengaluru continuing to evolve as one of India’s most dynamic hospitality markets, I look forward to identifying new opportunities, driving revenue performance and contributing to the hotel’s long-term success. I am eager to work closely with the team to drive sustainable growth while continuing to deliver value for both the hotel and its guests.”

The Boomerung Complex appoints Chef Harsha Pal Singh as Executive Chef

Chef Harsha Pal Singh brings more than two decades of culinary experience across India and the Middle East to the Jaypee Hotels-managed property.

The Boomerung Complex, Noida, managed by Jaypee Hotels, has announced the appointment of Chef Harsha Pal Singh as its new Executive Chef, reinforcing the property’s commitment to culinary excellence and elevated guest experiences.

Professional experience

With over 22 years of international culinary experience, Chef Harsha joins Jaypee Hotels after building an impressive career with renowned hospitality brands including Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, Radisson Noida Sector 18, Park Plaza Noida, Barracuda Beach Resort (UAE), The Juffair Grand & Elite Crystal Hotel (Bahrain), Best Western Plus The Olive Hotel (Bahrain), and Taal – Dawat International Restaurant Group, Kuwait. His career spans luxury hotels, premium resorts, specialty restaurants, international banquets, destination weddings, celebrity dining, and large-scale hospitality events across India and the Middle East.

Previous role

Before joining Jaypee Hotels, Chef Harsha served as Executive Chef at Barracuda Beach Resort, UAE, where he led multiple specialty restaurants, banquet operations, all-day dining, and in-room dining while managing a brigade of more than 26 chefs. He successfully introduced international food festivals, strengthened quality systems, and enhanced guest satisfaction through innovative menu development and operational excellence.

Career highlights

Earlier, at The Juffair Grand & Elite Crystal Hotel, Bahrain, he supervised eight unique dining concepts featuring Indian, Arabic, American, Polynesian, and international cuisines. At Best Western Plus The Olive Hotel, Bahrain, he played a pivotal role in launching multiple restaurants, banquet operations, and the acclaimed Mantraa Indian Restaurant, helping establish the hotel as a respected culinary destination.

Culinary journey

Chef Harsha’s professional foundation was shaped during his tenure with Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, Radisson Noida Sector 18, and Park Plaza Noida. At Radisson, he worked alongside the legendary Chef Jiggs Kalra during the celebrated Punjabi Food Festival in October 2004, further strengthening his expertise in authentic North Indian cuisine. Throughout his career, he has also collaborated with renowned chefs, including Chef Ranveer Brar and Chef Kunal Kapur, enriching his culinary philosophy by blending traditional Indian flavors with contemporary global techniques.

Achievements

Widely respected as a mentor and culinary leader, Chef Harsha has trained numerous young chefs who have progressed to become Sous Chefs, Executive Sous Chefs, Executive Chefs, and hospitality professionals across India and the Middle East. His accomplishments include winning the Bronze Medal at the Horeca Culinary Competition while representing Taal Restaurant, Kuwait, receiving several accolades for regional and international food festivals, and earning the internationally recognized ACCP Level 3 Certification (UK).

Executive chef’s perspective

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Harsha Pal Singh said, “I am honored to join The Boomerung Complex by Jaypee Hotels. I look forward to creating exceptional culinary experiences, celebrating authentic flavors, driving innovation, and mentoring the next generation of culinary professionals.”

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar appoints Dr Nisarga V M as Wellness Manager

Dr Nisarga V M will oversee Spa by JW operations, wellness programming and guest experience at the hotel.

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, known as the “Gateway to Mumbai,” announces the appointment of Dr Nisarga V M as its new Wellness Manager. Renowned for its bespoke therapies and immersive wellness experiences, Spa by JW is designed around the brand’s four signature pillars: Calm, Nourish, Balance and Renew, creating personalised journeys that help guests restore balance, rejuvenate the mind and body, and embrace holistic well-being.

Role and responsibilities

In her new role, Dr Nisarga will lead the operations of Spa by JW, overseeing wellness programming, spa operations, guest experience, and team development. She will play a pivotal role in enhancing the hotel’s spa offerings by delivering personalised experiences rooted in the core pillars: Calm, Nourish, Balance and Renew.

Professional experience

Dr Nisarga brings over five years of experience in luxury spa and wellness operations across leading hospitality brands, including IHCL (Taj Hotels). Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions at Taj Alibag Resort & Spa, Taj Theog Resort & Spa, Taj Devi Ratn, Jaipur, where she was a part of the pre-opening team, and Golden Palms Resort & Spa, Bengaluru. Across these roles, she has successfully led operational excellence, wellness programming, and high-performing teams while consistently delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Spa manager’s perspective

Speaking on her appointment, Dr Nisarga V M, Wellness Manager, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, said, “I am delighted to join JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar and be a part of a brand that places genuine emphasis on holistic well-being. Wellness has become an integral part of the luxury hospitality experience and I look forward to collaborating with the team to further elevate the Spa by JW experience with wellness programmes and experiences that resonate with the evolving needs of today’s guests.”

MAYFAIR Hotels appoints Rajni Kumari Singh as Marketing Manager

Rajni Kumari Singh joins the corporate office to lead marketing, public relations and brand communication initiatives.

MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts appoints Rajni Kumari Singh as Marketing Manager at its Corporate Office. Bringing expertise in destination marketing, luxury hospitality communications, public relations, and integrated brand strategy, Rajni joins MAYFAIR to support the brand’s continued growth by enhancing market visibility, strengthening brand positioning, and driving impactful marketing and communication initiatives.

Professional experience

Prior to joining MAYFAIR, Rajni served as Assistant Manager – Public Relations at TRAC Representations (India) Pvt. Ltd., where she managed integrated public relations and marketing communications for globally recognized tourism boards and luxury hospitality brands, including the Jamaica Tourist Board, Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and Cheval Collection.

Her experience spans strategic media relations, destination marketing, influencer collaborations, stakeholder engagement, and brand storytelling, enabling her to successfully execute communication campaigns across domestic and international markets.

Role and responsibilities

At MAYFAIR, Rajni will lead integrated marketing and public relations initiatives, driving strategic communications that strengthen the brand’s presence across digital, media, and consumer touchpoints.

She will spearhead public relations campaigns, media engagement, brand communications, content-driven storytelling, and strategic partnerships to enhance brand visibility, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and support the company’s business objectives. Her expertise in reputation management and destination branding will further reinforce MAYFAIR’s connection with discerning luxury travellers, industry partners, and the media.

Management’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Nelson Sumit Gomes, Assistant General Manager – Marketing, MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rajni to the MAYFAIR family. Her strong background in public relations, strategic communications, and destination marketing aligns perfectly with our vision of strengthening the brand’s presence across key markets. As we continue to expand our portfolio and enhance our brand visibility, I am confident that her expertise will play an important role in elevating MAYFAIR’s marketing and communication initiatives while fostering meaningful engagement with our guests, partners, and the media.

ITC Windsor appoints Arnold Lobo as Learning and Development Manager

Lobo brings over a decade of experience with ITC Hotels to lead talent development, leadership capability and employee engagement initiatives.

ITC Windsor announces the appointment of Arnold Lobo as its Learning and Development Manager, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and building future-ready teams.

Professional experience

With over a decade of experience with ITC Hotels, Arnold brings a strong blend of operational expertise and learning leadership to his new role. Beginning his hospitality journey in Housekeeping Operations, he developed extensive experience in quality management, service excellence, and people leadership before transitioning into Learning and Development, driven by his passion for empowering associates and enhancing organizational capability.

Career journey

Arnold successfully completed the Career Enhancement Program in Learning and Development at the ITC Hospitality Management Institute (ITC HMI). Over the years, he has contributed to learning and capability-building initiatives across renowned ITC Hotels, including ITC Maratha, ITC Mughal, ITC Gardenia, and ITC Kakatiya.

His expertise spans training needs analysis, behavioural and functional learning interventions, leadership development, employee engagement, and supporting the successful pre-opening of multiple hotels.

Role and responsibilities

In his new role, Arnold will spearhead Learning and Development initiatives at ITC Windsor, focusing on talent development, leadership capability, employee engagement, and cultivating a high-performance learning culture that supports both associate growth and exceptional guest experiences.

Lobo’s perspective

Speaking on his appointment, Arnold said, “I am delighted to join ITC Windsor and contribute to creating meaningful learning experiences that empower our associates to realise their full potential. I firmly believe that true success begins with investing in people. When individuals are inspired to learn, grow and lead with confidence, exceptional guest experiences naturally follow.”

General manager’s perspective

Welcoming him to the team, Sabrina Dey, General Manager, ITC Windsor, said, “We are delighted to welcome Arnold to ITC Windsor. His strong operational foundation, passion for developing people, and extensive experience in learning and capability building make him a valuable addition to our leadership team. We are confident that his expertise will further strengthen our learning culture and contribute significantly to the growth and success of our associates.”.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center appoints Shailender Kumar Yadav as Food & Beverage Manager

Bengaluru, July 2026: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center announced Shailender Kumar Yadav as Food & Beverage Manager. In his new role, he will lead the hotel’s food and beverage strategy across its restaurants, bars, banqueting operations and 65,000 sq. ft. convention centre.

With over 13 years of experience across luxury hospitality brands in India, the Middle East and the United Kingdom, Shailender brings strong operational depth across multi outlet dining, large scale banquets, revenue optimisation, restaurant concept development and guest experience. At Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, he will oversee an extensive food and beverage portfolio spanning 8 outlets, convention and banquet operations, while leading a team of 153 associates and 15 managers.

Prior to this, Shailender was Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at The St. Regis Mumbai, where he managed a luxury dining and banqueting portfolio across specialty restaurants, all day dining, in room dining, meeting spaces and 50,000 sq. ft. of banquet facilities. His previous roles include Director of Restaurants at The Westin Gurgaon, Restaurant Floor Manager at Boisdale of Canary Wharf, London, Restaurant Manager at The St. Regis Doha, Assistant Restaurant Manager at InterContinental Doha and leadership roles at W Goa. He began his hospitality journey with The Oberoi New Delhi and Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah.

A graduate of the Institute of Hotel Management, Gwalior, Shailender holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration. He has also been recognised as Best Pre Opening Executive at W Goa and holds a Train the Trainer Certification from Marriott International.

Commenting on his appointment, Shailender Kumar Yadav, Food & Beverage Manager, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said, “Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield has a unique food and beverage ecosystem, with strong standalone dining venues as well as one of the city’s most significant convention and banqueting portfolios. My focus will be on bringing sharper operational consistency, stronger restaurant programming and more guest led dining experiences across the hotel. I look forward to working closely with the team to build on the hotel’s existing strengths and create experiences that are commercially strong, service focused and memorable for our guests.”

Welcoming him to the role, Elton Hurtis, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said, “Food and beverage is central to the hotel’s positioning, from our restaurants and bars to large format weddings, social celebrations, corporate events and conventions. Shailender’s experience across luxury hotels, international markets and high volume operations makes him well suited to lead this vertical. His understanding of revenue, service culture and team development will be valuable as we continue to strengthen our dining and events proposition in Bengaluru.”

With his appointment, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center continues to strengthen its leadership team with a focus on elevated dining, operational excellence and high quality guest experiences across its food and beverage division.

The Orchid Pune Appoints Rajesh Mehta as General Manager

Pune, Maharashtra: The Orchid Pune, one of the city's leading five-star hotels, has announced the appointment of Rajesh Mehta as its new General Manager. Bringing over 34 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including more than 32 years of full-time professional experience, Mehta will lead the hotel's operations and drive its next phase of growth.

A seasoned hospitality professional, Mehta has built an extensive career across luxury hotels, business hotels, resorts and heritage properties in India. He began his hospitality journey with Hotel Clarks, Varanasi, and has since held leadership roles at renowned properties including Swosti Plaza, Bhubaneswar, Ritz Plaza, Amritsar, HRH Group of Hotels at Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur, Golkonda Resorts & Spa, Hyderabad, Ramee Guestline Hotels in Mumbai, Hotel Sea Princess, Juhu, and Ira by Orchid, Mumbai.

Throughout his career, Mehta has successfully led hotel operations, revenue growth, brand transitions and service excellence initiatives. He played a pivotal role in the successful conversion and rebranding of VITS Andheri into Ira by Orchid and spearheaded the property's transition to a Government of India 5-Star classified hotel. His leadership has consistently delivered improvements in occupancy, ARR, RevPAR, profitability, guest satisfaction and overall market positioning. He has also strengthened MICE, banquet, corporate and travel-trade business across multiple properties while mentoring large teams and fostering high standards of operational excellence.

Prior to this appointment, Mehta served as General Manager at Ira by Orchid, Mumbai, from October 2018 to March 2026. In April 2026, he transitioned within the Kamat Group of Hotels to take charge of The Orchid Pune.

Spread across 386 well-appointed rooms and offering nearly 130,000 sq. ft. of banquet and event space, The Orchid Pune is a preferred destination for corporate conferences, MICE events, weddings, social celebrations and leisure stays. Under Mehta's leadership, the hotel aims to further strengthen its position as one of Pune's most sought-after hospitality destinations.

Speaking on his appointment, Rajesh Mehta, General Manager, The Orchid Pune, said, "I am delighted to join The Orchid Pune and look forward to working with the team to build on the hotel's strong foundation. My focus will be on delivering consistently memorable experiences for our guests, strengthening our presence across the corporate, MICE and wedding segments, and continuing to grow our food and beverage offerings. I also believe that great hospitality begins with a motivated team, and I look forward to creating a positive work environment where people feel valued, take ownership and work together towards a common goal."

With a strong focus on operational efficiency, service excellence and people-first leadership, Mehta's vision is to enhance the hotel's overall guest experience while driving sustainable business growth through innovation, strategic partnerships and continuous team development.

Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar Announces Appointment of Divya Bhadauria as People & Culture Manager

Lucknow, July 2026: Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar has announced the appointment of Divya Bhadauria as People & Culture Manager, effective 13th July 2026. With over 10 years of experience in Human Resources and hospitality, Divya brings strong expertise in talent acquisition, employee engagement, learning and development, HR operations, and building positive workplace cultures.

In her new role, Divya will be responsible for overseeing the hotel's People & Culture function, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, learning and development, payroll coordination, employee relations, HR administration, and compliance. She will focus on strengthening the employee experience, supporting talent development, and fostering a culture that reflects the values of Mercure and Accor.

Prior to joining Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar, she served as Human Resources Manager at Renaissance Lucknow Hotel – Marriott International, where she managed recruitment, onboarding, learning and development initiatives, payroll coordination, employee relations, HR reporting, compensation-related projects, and employee engagement initiatives. Throughout her career, she has worked with leading hotel brands like Clarks Avadh Lucknow, Hilton Garden Inn Lucknow, and Saraca Lucknow. Divya is a certified Marriott International Ignite Train the Trainer, Certified Departmental Trainer (CDT), and Embark Certified professional.

“We are pleased to welcome Divya to the Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar family. Her extensive experience in hospitality human resources, combined with her strong focus on employee engagement, learning, and talent development, will be a valuable addition to our leadership team. As we continue to build our culture and strengthen our people practices, Divya will play an important role in creating an environment where our Heartists can learn, grow, and deliver their best,” said Amit Kapoor, General Manager, Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar.

MAYFAIR Hotels appoints Saugat Nandy as Assistant Vice President – Sales

Nandy joins the luxury hospitality brand with over 29 years of experience to support its commercial growth, market expansion and revenue strategy.

MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its leadership in India’s luxury hospitality sector, the brand has further reinforced its commercial leadership team with the appointment of Saugat Nandy as Assistant Vice President – Sales.

Bringing more than 29 years of experience across leading luxury hospitality brands, Saugat joins MAYFAIR to support the brand’s continued focus on strategic growth, market expansion, and revenue excellence across its portfolio of 19 resorts in 8 states.

Professional experience

Having built an accomplished career with renowned hospitality brands including Starwood Hotels & Resorts, ITC Hotels Ltd., Blackrock Hotels & Resorts, and The Wanderers, Saugat has consistently led high-performing commercial teams, driven multi-property sales strategies, strengthened customer relationships, and delivered sustainable business growth across diverse markets. His extensive understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape will further strengthen MAYFAIR’s commercial capabilities as the brand continues to expand its footprint.

Commercial strategy

With a strong focus on commercial excellence and revenue optimization, Saugat will work towards maximizing business opportunities, improving market penetration, enhancing yield across key segments, and driving sustainable, profitable growth across MAYFAIR’s portfolio. His strategic approach will further strengthen the brand’s market position while supporting its long-term commercial objectives.

Role and responsibilities

In his role, Saugat will work closely with the leadership team to further enhance MAYFAIR’s sales strategy, strengthen relationships across key business segments, identify new growth opportunities, and reinforce the brand’s position across the corporate, MICE, leisure, and wedding segments. His leadership and strategic expertise will play a key role in accelerating the brand’s commercial growth and expanding its presence across key domestic and international markets

Chalet Hotels appoints Manoj Agarwal as Chief Growth & Product Officer

Agarwal will lead the company's growth initiatives and report to Managing Director & CEO Shwetank Singh from the Mumbai corporate office.

Chalet Hotels Limited (CHL) today announced the appointment of Manoj Agarwal as its Chief Growth & Product Officer. In his new role, Manoj will lead the company’s growth initiatives and report directly to Shwetank Singh, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer. He will be based at the company’s corporate office in Mumbai.

Management’s perspective

Shwetank Singh, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chalet Hotels Limited, said: “We are delighted to welcome Manoj to Chalet Hotels at an exciting phase of our growth journey. His extensive experience across hospitality, real estate and strategic investments, combined with his strong commercial and business development expertise, will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our portfolio, accelerate growth opportunities and further enhance our product offerings. We are confident that Manoj’s leadership and strategic perspective will play an important role in shaping Chalet’s next phase of growth.”

Agarwal’s perspective

Manoj Agarwal, Chief Growth & Product Officer, Chalet Hotels Limited, said: “I am excited to join Chalet Hotels and contribute to the company’s robust expansion. Chalet has built a strong reputation for creating high-quality hospitality assets and delivering exceptional guest experiences. I look forward to working closely with the leadership team to build on this strong foundation, identify new growth opportunities, strengthen the company’s product portfolio, and contribute to its long-term vision.”

Professional experience

Manoj joins Chalet Hotels with over 23 years of experience across hospitality, real estate, and infrastructure. He brings extensive expertise in business development, asset management, portfolio investments, asset acquisitions, corporate finance, M&A advisory, fund raising, valuations, deal sourcing, and strategic consulting.

Previous roles

Prior to joining Chalet Hotels, Manoj served as Chief Operating Officer – Hospitality at Brigade Hotel Ventures Limited, where he played a key role in driving the company’s hospitality business. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions with reputed organizations including InterGlobe Hotels Pvt. Ltd., Bridge Capital Advisors, ING Vysya Bank, and Deloitte Haskins & Sells, bringing a unique blend of hospitality, real estate, and financial expertise to CHL

Hafele appoints Saurav Kumar Das as Director – Sales for South Asia

Das will lead the Sales and Sales Support functions across Hafele's South Asia operations, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Hafele announces the appointment of Saurav Kumar Das as Director – Sales. In this role, Saurav will lead the Sales and Sales Support functions across Hafele’s South Asia operations, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other regional markets.

Professional experience

Saurav brings with him extensive experience and a deep understanding of Hafele’s business, having held multiple strategic roles during his association with the organisation. Over his 11+ year journey with Hafele, he has successfully led the Projects and Hospitality business, Partitions & Automatics, International Markets, and most recently, the Hafele Fittings vertical.

His diverse cross-functional experience, strong understanding of customer needs, and insights into market dynamics position him well to drive Hafele’s sales strategy and support the organisation’s continued growth across South Asia. The appointment follows a planned leadership transition, with Hafele continuing to strengthen its leadership ecosystem and ensure seamless business continuity across the region.

Management commentary

Commenting on the appointment, Frank Schloeder, Managing Director, Hafele South Asia, said, “Saurav’s journey at Hafele reflects our commitment to nurturing and developing talent from within the organisation. His experience across different business functions has given him a holistic understanding of our markets and business priorities. We are confident that his leadership will further strengthen our Sales organisation and help us continue creating value for our customers and partners across South Asia.”

Executive perspective

Speaking about his new role, Saurav Kumar Das, Director – Sales, Hafele South Asia, said, “I am excited to lead the Sales function at Hafele and build on the strong foundation created by the organisation over the years. This role presents an opportunity to further strengthen our market presence and focus on strategic priorities. I look forward to working with our teams to drive excellence and contribute to the continued success of the business.

Absolute Hotel Services India appoints Partha Ray as GM of U Rivergate Resort & Spa, Karjat

Ray will lead the resort's operations and oversee its next phase of growth at the Karjat property.

Absolute Hotel Services India announces the appointment of Partha Ray as the General Manager of U Rivergate Resort & Spa, Karjat.

Professional experience

Partha Ray is a seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of hands-on experience in hotel operations, having built an accomplished career with some of India’s well-established hospitality brands, including Fariyas Hotels, Hotel Hindusthan International, and Peerless Inn.

Popular for his amiable approach, operational sharpness and people-centric, collaborative leadership, Partha has consistently delivered excellence in guest service, revenue optimization, and business performance. With Rooms Division as his core area of expertise, he steadily progressed through the operational ranks before taking on General Management responsibilities, where he successfully led hotel operations.

New role

As General Manager of U Rivergate Karjat, Partha will spearhead the resort’s next phase of growth by reinforcing the brand’s unique value proposition, elevating service deliverables, and creating a distinctive competitive advantage. His vision is to position U Rivergate Karjat as one of the region’s most sought-after leisure and experiential destinations, renowned for its genuine hospitality, memorable guest experiences, and strong market presence.

Management commentary

Commenting on the appointment, Shalil Suvarna, Senior Vice President – Operations, Absolute Hotel Services India & South Asia, said: “We are delighted to welcome Partha Ray as General Manager of U Rivergate Karjat. Partha brings with him a wealth of operational experience, a strong guest centric approach, and an inspiring leadership style that aligns perfectly with our vision for the Resort. His proven ability to build adaptive teams, drive real time operations and deliver delightful guest experiences makes him the ideal leader to take U Rivergate Karjat into its next phase of growth. We are confident that under his watch, the resort will further strengthen its position as an International Hotel Operator, creating value and delivering every promise of the Brand”.

Executive perspective

Speaking about his appointment, Partha Ray said: “I am honored to join U Rivergate Resort & Spa, Karjat and become part of the Absolute Hotel Services family. The resort offers a unique blend of nature, luxury, and authentic hospitality. I look forward to working closely with the team to elevate guest experiences, drive operational excellence, and contribute to the continued growth of this remarkable destination.”

Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall appoints Zeba Hasan as Rooms Division Manager

Hasan will oversee the hotel's Rooms Division, leading guest-facing operations, service standards and team development.

Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall has announced the appointment of Zeba Hasan as its Rooms Division Manager, further strengthening its leadership team as it continues to elevate its hospitality offerings and operational excellence.

New role

In her new role, Zeba will oversee the hotel’s Rooms Division, leading key guest-facing functions while focusing on service standards, team development and seamless guest experiences. She will also work closely with the leadership team to support the hotel’s business objectives.

My vision is to create a Rooms Division that consistently delivers personalized, seamless and memorable guest experiences while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous learning. I look forward to empowering our teams, embracing innovation and ensuring that every guest leave with lasting memories of Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall.

Professional experience

Zeba joins Grand Mercure with over a decade of experience in hospitality, having spent her career with leading Accor properties across India. Most recently, she served as Cluster Front Office Manager at Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim, where she led front office operations across both hotels. During her tenure, she played a key role in strengthening guest engagement and operational performance, while helping the property become India’s highest enrolment-performing hotel for the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty programme.

Management commentary

Commenting on the appointment, Ram Shetty, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, said, “We are delighted to welcome Zeba to Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall. Her extensive experience, collaborative leadership style and deep understanding of the Accor ecosystem make her a valuable addition to our team.

With a strong focus on driving commercial growth, enhancing guest engagement, and elevating the hotel’s market presence, Zeba’s appointment comes at a pivotal time. Her expertise will support our vision of delivering memorable experiences while strengthening our positioning in Bengaluru’s competitive hospitality landscape. We are confident that she will further strengthen our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality.”

Executive perspective

Speaking about her appointment, Zeba Hasan said, “I am delighted to join Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall and begin this exciting new chapter in my journey with Accor. The opportunity to work with such a passionate team and contribute to a hotel that is known for its warm hospitality and service culture is truly exciting. I am committed to creating exceptional guest experiences by building a high-performing Rooms Division that places equal emphasis on service excellence, operational efficiency, and team engagement. Together with the team, I look forward to introducing thoughtful initiatives that enhance guest satisfaction while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality. I look forward to working alongside the team to build on the hotel’s strong foundation and continue creating meaningful and memorable experiences for every guest.”

THE Park New Delhi appoints Mayank Bajpai as Director of Food & Beverage

With over 16 years of hospitality experience, he will lead the hotel's food and beverage strategy and operations.

THE Park New Delhi announces the appointment of Mayank Bajpai as Director of Food & Beverage.

Professional experience

He brings over 16 years of experience in luxury hotel food and beverage operations, with a career built across leading global hospitality brands including Andaz, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Radisson Hotel Group. Having progressed from frontline operations to executive leadership, he brings a ground-up understanding of the business – spanning commercial strategy, operational excellence, concept development and guest experience.

Role

In his new role at THE Park New Delhi, Mayank will lead the food and beverage division with a sharp focus on driving business growth, developing innovative culinary concepts, and elevating guest experiences, including the recently launched all-day dining restaurant, Tyde.

Leadership

Commenting on the appointment, Parag Sawhney, General Manager, THE Park New Delhi said, “We are thrilled to welcome Mayank to our team at an exciting phase in the hotel’s journey. Food and beverage has always been central to our identity, not only as a hospitality offering but as a powerful expression of culture, creativity and connection. Mayank’s wealth of experience and leadership will be instrumental as we reimagine our culinary portfolio, building on the momentum of our newest dining experiences and set new benchmarks at THE Park New Delhi.”

On the appointment

Speaking on his appointment, Mayank Bajpai, Director of Food & Beverage, THE Park New Delhi, said, “I am excited to join THE Park New Delhi that has consistently challenged conventions and redefined hospitality through design, culture and unforgettable experiences. It is a privilege to be part of a brand with such a distinctive identity and a vibrant culinary legacy. I look forward to working closely with the talented team to build on this strong foundation, and create memorable moments for our guests while driving the next phase of growth for the hotel’s food and beverage portfolio.”

Peerless Hotels Ltd appoints Amit Meharia as the hotel Group’s new Vice President Finance.

He comes with a rich experience spanning 15 years assisting in finance management and is poised to enhance the financial operations of the group and improve the overall Finance, accounting and compliance governance practices.

Peerless Hotels Ltd (Hospitality Division of PGFI) has appointed Amit Meharia as the hotel group’s new Vice President Finance. Amit comes with a rich experience spanning 15 years leading in hotel financial operations turn around and is expected to extend the compliance focus of the group more in deep and improve the overall financial accounting and strategy practices.

With a track record of heading, planning and executing the complete set up of financial accounting standards , developing and implementing effective plans to augment Finance transformation leading a change aiming towards modern finance practices without forgetting the roots and traditions, Amit has a keen pulse on strategies strengthening the compliances across the brand.

Our hotel group has transformed into a distinguished iconic hospitality address, and, post the upgradation we have been able to to put it on the national map more prominently. We are excited to have Amit join in the Corporate leadership team, bringing with him his vast experience of turning around and standardising the financial process. It is our vision to enhance the peerless values with our people first & the elevation of his one step forward towards the same,” says Debasree Roy, Managing Director, Peerless Hotels Ltd.

“The iconic hospitality group Peerless Hotels from Kolkata currently owns and operates 4 hotels & resorts across 2 states in West Bengal & in Hyderabad Telangana as well as the union territory of Andaman & Nicobar.

Mosaic Hotels promotes Avadhesh Sharma as Director of Sales

He will lead the sales strategy for the company's leisure-focused properties and drive business through the travel trade and key distribution partners.

Mosaic Hotels has announced the promotion of Avadhesh Sharma to the position of Director of Sales, reinforcing its commitment to recognizing internal talent and strengthening its commercial leadership as the company continues its expansion across India.

New role

In his new role, Avadhesh will lead the sales strategy for Mosaic Hotels’ leisure-focused properties and drive business through the travel trade and key distribution partners. He will be responsible for expanding market presence, strengthening strategic relationships, and supporting revenue growth across the company’s growing portfolio.

Professional experience

Avadhesh has been an integral part of the Mosaic Hotels team and has consistently contributed to the company’s commercial success. Before joining Mosaic Hotels, Avadhesh held key sales positions with Country Inn Hotels & Resorts and Leisure Hotels Limited, where he gained extensive experience across leisure, corporate, and travel trade segments. He holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Gwalior, along with a Master’s degree in Mathematics, bringing a unique combination of analytical thinking and commercial acumen to hospitality sales and revenue optimization.

Company expansion

His promotion comes at a significant phase in Mosaic Hotels’ growth, following the launch of Mosaic Go Chail, Mosaic Connect Ayodhya, and Mosaic Go Star Grand , Navi Mumbai