Asit Ghosh joins as General Manager at The Orchid Hotel Lonavala

With over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, a dynamic and award-winning professional has joined The Orchid Hotel Lonavala as its new General Manager. The hotel is pleased to welcome Asit Ghosh, who brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, food and beverage management, strategic planning, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Prior to joining The Orchid Hotel Lonavala, Asit Ghosh held senior leadership roles at prestigious hospitality brands such as Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, Spectrum Resorts, and The Clarks Group. He has a proven track record of driving profitability, enhancing guest experiences, and leading pre-opening operations across diverse properties.

In 2017–18, he was honored with the Best Performing General Manager Award (Second Runner-Up, India & Nepal) by Cygnett Hotels and Resorts, underscoring his dedication to operational excellence and team leadership.

Commenting on his new role, Asit Ghosh shared,

“Joining The Orchid Hotel Lonavala is both an honor and a responsibility. I am committed to upholding the hotel’s legacy of eco-friendly hospitality while introducing new strategies to enrich the guest experience and optimize performance. I look forward to working closely with the team to take this iconic property to even greater heights.”

Known for its sustainable practices and breathtaking location in the Western Ghats, The Orchid Hotel Lonavala continues to be a preferred destination for leisure and business travelers alike. With Asit Ghosh at the helm, the hotel is poised to reinforce its commitment to excellence, innovation, and green hospitality.

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Pradipt Sinha as General Manager

Holiday Inn Agra is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Pradipt Sinha as General Manager. With over 23 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Sinha brings strategic insight, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to service excellence. Known for his sharp, forward-thinking leadership, he has consistently elevated guest experiences, driven operational efficiencies and fostered high-performance teams across a range of luxury and upscale hotel environments.

Under IHG’s Room to Grow talent development initiative, Mr. Sinha has earned this opportunity to lead Holiday Inn Agra, building on his successful tenure within the brand. In his current journey with IHG Hotels & Resorts, Mr. Sinha has held several key leadership positions where he consistently delivered results that aligned with the brand’s standards of excellence. As Director of Operations at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Mayur Vihar, he led hotel operations across all departments, steering the property to top-tier guest satisfaction scores and brand metrics. He was also appointed Area Champion – Food & Beverage, South West Asia, where he provided strategic direction to multiple IHG properties, aligning F&B operations with brand excellence and guest engagement. At Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, he served as Director of Food & Beverage, introducing innovative dining experiences and market-leading culinary programs.

Before joining IHG, Pradipt held key leadership roles with brands such as Marriott International, Hyatt Hotels, and The Lalit, gaining valuable cross-brand operational insight and culinary depth.

Mr. Sinha’s leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including Hotel Manager of the Year (Upscale to Midscale) at the 14th Hotelier India Awards 2023, Leader of the Year at Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar (2023), Crowne Plaza Okhla (2021), and Jaipur Marriott (2018). His culinary expertise was recognized with Chef of the Year (Asia Pacific) by Marriott International (2017) and by FH&RA India (2018).

He holds a master’s degree in Tourism Management from Indira Gandhi National Open University and a bachelor’s in international hospitality management from the International Institute of Hotel Management, Kolkata. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Sinha is passionate about travel, photography, and exploring new cuisines. His personal interests reflect the same creativity and curiosity that define his leadership approach.

On his appointment, Mr. Sinha stated: "Agra is a city rich in heritage and constantly evolving as a premier destination for travellers worldwide. At Holiday Inn Agra, I am committed to strengthening our relationships with all stakeholders—guests, partners and the local community—while driving innovation and operational excellence to ensure we remain a preferred choice. Together, we will build on the hotel’s strong foundation to deliver exceptional experiences that celebrate the spirit of this magnificent city."

Mr. Praveen Pandey Appointed as General Manager at The Fern Residency, Aurangabad

With 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Praveen Pandey has been appointed as General Manager at The Fern Residency, Aurangabad. In this role, he will be responsible for overseeing overall hotel operations, enhancing guest satisfaction, and leading initiatives that drive revenue growth and service excellence.

Praveen brings with him a wealth of expertise in Rooms Division and Revenue, having held leadership positions with esteemed brands such as Lemon Tree Hotels and Rotana Hotels (UAE). His strategic mindset and operational acumen have consistently contributed to improved guest experiences and strong business outcomes

At The Fern Residency, Aurangabad, his key focus areas will include elevating the guest journey, optimizing the property’s digital presence, and reinforcing the hotel’s brand promise of environmental sustainability. With a vision to strengthen the hotel’s market position, Praveen aims to implement forward-thinking strategies and foster a high-performance culture that delivers long-term value.

Mr. Zaffar Rahman Appointed as General Manager at The Fern Residency, Hubballi

With nearly two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, Zaffar Rahman has been appointed as General Manager at The Fern Residency, Hubballi, where he will lead hotel operations, drive guest satisfaction and guide his team towards delivering excellence in service and performance.

Zaffar’s expertise lies in food and beverage, supported by a City & Guilds qualification, and is enriched by his experience across diverse markets including India, Singapore, and Germany. This rich background fuels his passion for excellence, and in his current role as General Manager, he is committed to achieving ambitious growth targets by delivering exceptional service standards and building a high-performing team dedicated to setting new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and revenue achievement. His focus on operational efficiency and people-first leadership is expected to play a key role in the hotel’s continued success and market positioning.

Mr. Satyendra Sharma Appointed as New General Manager at Harsha The Fern, Shivamogga

With over two decades of leadership experience in the hospitality industry, Satyendra Sharma has taken charge as General Manager at Harsha The Fern, Shivamogga. In this role, he will oversee overall hotel operations, focus on elevating guest experiences, and lead his team towards delivering consistent excellence in service and performance.

Satyendra’s professional journey includes key positions with reputed hospitality brands such as IHCL, Club Mahindra among others where he redefined business strategy to drive sustained and profitable growth, achieving impressive GOP figures. At Harsha The Fern, he is set to leverage his experience and vision to drive operational excellence and lead the hotel to new heights of performance and guest satisfaction.

Mr. Manish Kumar Appointed as General Manager at The Fern Vishranta Resort, Kamrej-Surat

With over 14 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Manish Kumar has been appointed as General Manager at The Fern Vishranta Resort, Kamrej-Surat. In this position, he will be responsible for leading daily operations, strengthening guest engagement, and upholding the resort’s commitment to service excellence.
Manish’s career spans key operational roles across prominent hotel chains, including significant tenures with Sayaji Hotels and jüSTa Hotels. In these roles, he was instrumental in optimizing processes and significantly enhancing guest satisfaction scores.

Recognized for his practical leadership style and a strong foundation in hotel management, guest services, and team development, Manish is also known for introducing service innovations and spearheading impactful staff training programs. At The Fern Vishranta Resort, he aims to build on this legacy by driving operational performance and delivering memorable guest experiences that reflect the brand’s ethos.

Prasoon Pandey appointed General Manager of The Leela Palace Udaipur

Prasoon Pandey has been appointed as the General Manager of The Leela Palace Udaipur, marking a significant milestone in his career. His elevation from Hotel Manager reflects his dedication, operational expertise, and commitment to guest satisfaction.

Overlooking Lake Pichola, The Leela Palace Udaipur is renowned for its regal charm and immersive cultural experiences, blending tradition with contemporary luxury. Since joining the hotel in 2023, Prasoon has played a key role in sustaining and enhancing these qualities.

With a career that began in housekeeping, Prasoon brings an operations-led leadership style, shaped by his experience across luxury boutique properties and resort launches in India. He is an alumnus of the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD), where he earned a Gold Medal, and has furthered his education at IHM Bhubaneswar and through Harvard Management Mentor executive programs.

In his new role, he will guide The Leela Palace Udaipur through its next phase of growth, focusing on elevated service experiences, global positioning, and community engagement. His appointment underscores The Leela’s commitment to nurturing talent from within.

Speaking on his new position, Prasoon expressed his excitement, stating, “It is an honour to lead The Leela Palace Udaipur—an address that holds a special place in the hearts of travellers from across the world. My journey with The Leela has been both inspiring and empowering, and I look forward to continuing our pursuit of excellence with a team that is deeply passionate about creating meaningful moments.”

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar Announces the Appointment of Naveen Yadav as General Manager

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar is delighted to announce the appointment of Naveen Yadav as its new General Manager.

With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry, Naveen brings a comprehensive mix of operational insight, strategic vision, and leadership expertise. A graduate of the Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality and has worked with some of the most renowned hospitality brands.

Naveen began his professional journey with Liberty Indian DMC/Paragon Conventions in Delhi, later moving into MICE-focused roles at Conferences and Incentives Management, Gurgaon. Rising through the ranks, he was appointed Cluster Director of Sales, spearheading strategic initiatives and revenue growth for Westin Gurgaon and The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa.

He went on to establish a robust cluster sales team for seven Accor properties in Chennai, and later served as Market Director – National Sales (North & East India) at Marriott International, followed by a brief tenure as Chief Business Officer at Bloom Hotels.

Naveen’s association with Hyatt began with leadership roles at multiple properties, including Hyatt Regency Trivandrum (pre-opening), Hyatt Regency & Lulu Convention Centre Thrissur, and Grand Hyatt & Lulu Bolgatty International Convention Centre Kochi. Most recently, he served as General Manager at Hyatt Regency Amritsar, where he led the team in delivering operational excellence and elevating guest satisfaction.

In his new role at Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar, Naveen is committed to further enhancing the guest experience, fostering a culture of excellence, and positioning the hotel as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Please join us in welcoming Naveen to Jaipur and wishing him every success in this exciting new chapter

IBIS Appoints Sandip Satange as General Manager of ibis Mumbai BKC

With over 14 years of diverse hospitality experience across India, the UK, and the US, Sandip Satange has been appointed as General Manager of ibis Mumbai BKC, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to dynamic leadership and operational excellence.

Mumbai, April, 2025 – ibis India, the vibrant and modern economy hotel brand from the Accor portfolio, has announced the appointment of Mr. Sandip Satange as the General Manager of ibis Mumbai BKC. Known for his deep operational knowledge and a global perspective shaped by roles across three continents, Sandip brings with him over 14 years of rich hospitality experience and a proven track record in driving operational excellence, team engagement, and guest satisfaction.

In his most recent role, Sandip successfully led ibis Navi Mumbai, overseeing 196 rooms and a large team while ensuring steady performance in a competitive market. His journey with the ibis brand has been both dynamic and rewarding—marked by milestones such as successfully managing properties during the pandemic, repositioning hotels, and achieving remarkable guest and employee engagement scores. He has also held leadership roles with global hotel brands and played a key role in launching several new properties across India and the UK.

Sandip holds a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Wales, UK, and a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from RTM Nagpur University. With a keen focus on financial performance, operational efficiencies, and people development, he is poised to lead ibis Mumbai BKC with renewed energy and strategic direction.

Speaking on the appointment, Mr. Tejus Jose, Director of Operations, ibis & ibis Styles India said, “We are delighted to welcome Sandip into his new role at ibis Mumbai BKC. His deep understanding of hotel operations, combined with his commitment to team development and guest experience, makes him an excellent fit to lead one of our flagship properties. We’re confident that under his leadership, the hotel will continue to thrive and deliver exceptional value to guests.”

On his new role, Mr. Sandip Satange, General Manager, ibis Mumbai BKC shared, “It’s an exciting opportunity to lead a hotel as vibrant and strategically located as ibis Mumbai BKC. I look forward to working with the talented team here and building on the brand’s strong foundation. Together, we aim to deliver great guest experiences, drive innovation, and make ibis Mumbai BKC a preferred destination for travelers in the city.”

Sandip’s appointment underscores ibis India’s continued focus on fostering internal talent, building leadership from within, and strengthening its operational excellence across key locations.

Fairmont Mumbai Opens Its Doors Under the Leadership of Rajiv Kapoor as General Manager

Mumbai, April 2025 – Rajiv Kapoor, the General Manager at the newly launched Fairmont Mumbai has been at the helm of the hotel’s pre-opening phase for the past year, meticulously orchestrating its launch and shaping its vision. With doors officially opened on 10th April, his leadership marks the beginning of a dynamic new era for the brand in Mumbai.

With a remarkable career spanning over two decades in luxury hospitality, Rajiv brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, guest service, and team leadership. Known for his strategic approach and passion for excellence, he is set to steer Fairmont Mumbai towards new benchmarks in hospitality and innovation. Shaped by extensive international experience, his journey across diverse cultural landscapes has refined his ability to anticipate and exceed global guest expectations.

His tenure in world-class resorts across Asia allowed him to master the art of cross-cultural service, market adaptability, and innovative guest engagement. Having led teams in dynamic, high-performing environments, he has honed his expertise in operational excellence, brand positioning, and bespoke service delivery.

Rajiv’s five-year tenure at Fairmont Jaipur played a key role in enhancing the brand’s reputation, particularly through his introduction of innovative guest experiences and operational improvements that significantly boosted occupancy rates. His leadership earned him several prestigious accolades, including "General Manager of the Year – Upscale to Luxe" at the Accor South Asia Hotel Awards 2021 and "General Manager of the Year – Luxury Hotels Segment" at the HOSI 2022 Hotelivate MakeMyTrip Awards.

He is known for his ability to build strong teams, implement strategic initiatives, and maintain operational excellence. Rajiv’s hands-on approach ensures that the Fairmont experience remains consistent, delivering the high level of service the brand is known for.

At Fairmont Mumbai, Rajiv will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the hotel’s pre-opening and operations, including curating a high-performing team that aligns with Fairmont’s vision of excellence, strategic planning, and ensuring exceptional service in Mumbai’s competitive luxury market. With his deep commitment to the Fairmont brand, Rajiv is determined to position Fairmont Mumbai as a beacon of luxury and innovation, setting a new standard for hospitality in the region.

“I’m excited to be part of this new chapter for Fairmont in Mumbai,” says Rajiv. “The legendary legacy of this brand is inspiring, and I look forward to collaborating with the team to establish Fairmont Mumbai as a flagship property for Accor in India, setting a new standard for luxury and excellence in the city.” With a track record of leading properties to success, Rajiv’s visionary approach and hands-on leadership style make him the ideal choice to guide Fairmont Mumbai to its grand opening. His dedication to upholding the highest standards of hospitality will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the city’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Under Rajiv’s leadership, Fairmont Mumbai is set to elevate the luxury experience in the city. He will focus on incorporating distinctive design elements, culinary innovations, and world-class service standards to create an immersive experience that resonates with both local and international guests. By blending the timeless elegance of the Fairmont brand with a modern touch, Rajiv aims to position Fairmont Mumbai as a true symbol of sophisticated hospitality, making it a premier destination for those seeking unmatched luxury and excellence in the heart of the city.

Victor Chen takes the helm as the General Manager at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park

Pune: A new chapter of inspired leadership begins with the appointment of Victor Chen as the General Manager at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park. Bringing with him over 25 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, he carries a legacy of operational excellence and strategic foresight.

Victor is a passionate and driven hospitality professional with diverse experience with leading Hyatt and Marriott International hotels and resorts. He has hands-on knowledge of Hotel Operations, Sales & Marketing and Events having worked in luxury, premium, and select service brands.

A hotel school graduate from Kolkata, Victor began his career with the Hyatt Hotels in the Corporate Leadership programme and rose the ranks through various positions in different cities in India and Dubai.

In 2016, he joined Marriott International as Resident Manager at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu where he was instrumental in successfully driving the brand positioning and elevating the guest experience. This led to him being promoted as General Manager at the Le Meridien Goa Calangute and then subsequently another assignment as General Manager at the Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport.

Victor believes in creating a thriving environment for the associates, ensuring strategic decisions to solidify the hotel’s market leadership, and drive exceptional balance scorecard results. His emphasis on genuine care, ensuring a clean & well-maintained hotel and empowering associates has enhanced guest experience, thereby driving brand preference and winning multiple hotel awards.

For Victor, true hospitality extends beyond service—it’s about nurturing talent, championing sustainability, and fostering collaboration. He has also mentored many budding associates who have gone on to hold key positions at some of the country’s iconic hotels. As Co-Chair of the Marriott India Business Council, he continues to reinforce his commitment to excellence, inspiring positive change in both the community and environment.

Victor is an avid traveler, foodie and a Bollywood movie buff. He will be joined by his wife Tatjana and daughter Victoria in Pune.

He envisions a stellar roadmap along with driving towards new milestones at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park.

Pullman Chennai Anna Salai strengthens its leadership team as Vinodh Ramamurthy takes the helm as General Manager

Chennai, April 2025: Pullman Chennai Anna Salai is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Vinodh Ramamurthy as General Manager, effective April 2025. With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Ramamurthy brings a wealth of operational excellence, strategic commercial acumen, and a proven track record of people-first leadership. His appointment marks a significant step in strengthening the hotel’s position in the dynamic and evolving Chennai market.

Mr. Ramamurthy brings over two decades of distinguished experience in the hospitality industry, having held senior leadership positions with some of India’s most renowned hotel brands. Most recently, he served as General Manager across three prominent properties in diverse cities, where he consistently drove operational excellence, elevated guest satisfaction, and secured market-leading performance. His strategic vision, combined with a steadfast commitment to service excellence, has empowered teams to surpass expectations and establish new standards of success.

At Pullman Chennai Anna Salai, Mr. Ramamurthy is poised to lead the hotel into an exciting new chapter, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, cultivating talent, and strengthening the property’s position as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers in Chennai. His leadership philosophy, grounded in collaboration, innovation, and a deep passion for personalized hospitality, aligns seamlessly with Pullman’s brand ethos of delivering world class hospitality.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Ramamurthy shared “I am honoured to take on this leadership role and be a part of Pullman Chennai Anna Salai’s growth journey. The property holds immense potential, and I am excited to work alongside a passionate and talented team to elevate our guest experiences even further. Together, we aim to set new benchmarks for service excellence, foster a culture of innovation and inclusivity, and reinforce Pullman Chennai’s position as a flagship destination for both business and leisure travelers in the region.”

With prior leadership experience at esteemed hospitality brands including Taj and Hilton, Mr. Ramamurthy brings rich industry insight. Outside of work, he maintains a strong passion for fitness.

Pullman Chennai Anna Salai has been awarded the prestigious Gold-level sustainability certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program in the Building Design and Construction category. This recognition reflects the hotel’s eco-conscious design, energy-efficient operations, and dedication to reducing its environmental impact while delivering exceptional guest experiences.

As a member of ALL, Accor’s all-in-one booking platform and award-winning loyalty program, guests can enjoy exclusive benefits and earn reward points during their stay at Pullman Chennai Anna Salai. These points can be redeemed for future stays, dining, and unique experiences across Accor’s global network. 

The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Kanpur Appointed Mr. Shailendra Gairola as General Manager, Rajawat

With over two decades of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Shailendra Gairola has been appointed as General Manager at Rajawat The Fern–An Ecotel Hotel, Kanpur, where he will lead hotel operations, drive guest satisfaction and guide his team towards delivering excellence in service and performance.

Shailendra’s expertise lies in food and beverage, with a deep-rooted passion for innovation and the integration of new technologies to enhance guest experience tracking and reporting. He has previously been associated with The Oberoi, Marriott, The Leela to name a few, where he honed his skills across various facets of hospitality.

In his current role as General Manager, he is committed to driving the hotel’s growth by delivering exceptional service standards and building a high-performing team dedicated to setting new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and revenue achievement.

Pullman Chennai Anna Salai strengthens its leadership team as Vinodh Ramamurthy takes the helm as General Manager

Chennai, April 2025: Pullman Chennai Anna Salai is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Vinodh Ramamurthy as General Manager, effective April 2025. With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Ramamurthy brings a wealth of operational excellence, strategic commercial acumen, and a proven track record of people-first leadership. His appointment marks a significant step in strengthening the hotel’s position in the dynamic and evolving Chennai market.

Mr. Ramamurthy brings over two decades of distinguished experience in the hospitality industry, having held senior leadership positions with some of India’s most renowned hotel brands. Most recently, he served as General Manager across three prominent properties in diverse cities, where he consistently drove operational excellence, elevated guest satisfaction, and secured market-leading performance. His strategic vision, combined with a steadfast commitment to service excellence, has empowered teams to surpass expectations and establish new standards of success.

At Pullman Chennai Anna Salai, Mr. Ramamurthy is poised to lead the hotel into an exciting new chapter, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, cultivating talent, and strengthening the property’s position as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers in Chennai. His leadership philosophy, grounded in collaboration, innovation, and a deep passion for personalized hospitality, aligns seamlessly with Pullman’s brand ethos of delivering world class hospitality.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Ramamurthy shared “I am honoured to take on this leadership role and be a part of Pullman Chennai Anna Salai’s growth journey. The property holds immense potential, and I am excited to work alongside a passionate and talented team to elevate our guest experiences even further. Together, we aim to set new benchmarks for service excellence, foster a culture of innovation and inclusivity, and reinforce Pullman Chennai’s position as a flagship destination for both business and leisure travelers in the region.”

With prior leadership experience at esteemed hospitality brands including Taj and Hilton, Mr. Ramamurthy brings rich industry insight. Outside of work, he maintains a strong passion for fitness.

Pullman Chennai Anna Salai has been awarded the prestigious Gold-level sustainability certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program in the Building Design and Construction category. This recognition reflects the hotel’s eco-conscious design, energy-efficient operations, and dedication to reducing its environmental impact while delivering exceptional guest experiences.

As a member of ALL, Accor’s all-in-one booking platform and award-winning loyalty program, guests can enjoy exclusive benefits and earn reward points during their stay at Pullman Chennai Anna Salai. These points can be redeemed for future stays, dining, and unique experiences across Accor’s global network. 

Mercure Hyderabad KCP appoints Amandeep Singh as General Manager

Hyderabad, April, 2025 – Mercure Hyderabad KCP is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Amandeep Singh as the new General Manager at the property. Amandeep brings with him over 13 years of remarkable experience and strong professional acumen in hotel operations and guest experience in diverse environments.

In his present role as General Manager of Mercure Hyderabad KCP he will oversee strategic initiatives including guest engagement, streamlining operations, enhancing business efficiency and optimizing financial performance. His comprehensive exposure to multi-property operations, and his exceptional leadership makes him well-suited to lead Mercure Hyderabad KCP into its next phase of growth.

Amandeep began his journey with Accor in 2012 at Novotel & Ibis Bengaluru Outer Ring Road as a Management Trainee. Through a decade of consistent performance and   excellence he has risen through the ranks taking on key managerial roles across different properties that include Swissôtel Kolkata, Novotel Chandigarh and Ibis Styles Goa.

 A graduate in Hotel Management from the Army Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology, affiliated with Bangalore University, Amandeep combines a strong academic foundation with on-ground operational excellence. His Pan-India experience across business, leisure, MICE, and social segments positions him to bring fresh perspectives to the Hyderabad hospitality landscape.

Speaking on his appointment, Mr. Amandeep Singh said, “I am truly honoured to take on this role at Mercure Hyderabad KCP. The hotel is known for its heartfelt hospitality, interweaving local Telangana elements with a unique blend of culture and style.  I look forward to building on its legacy by delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving operational excellence in line with Accor’s global standards.”

Mercure Hyderabad KCP looks forward to a new chapter of innovation, growth, and elevated guest service under Amandeep's leadership.

Sanjiv Hulugalle Appointed CEO and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka

A Global Hospitality Visionary Returns Home to Lead Sri Lanka’s Most Ambitious Integrated Resort

April, 2025, India– Cinnamon Life announces the appointment of Sanjiv Hulugalle as the Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape.

With a career that spans over three decades and 12 countries across five continents, Hulugalle brings to Cinnamon Life an unparalleled legacy in luxury hospitality, real estate development, and transformative leadership. From the Maldives to Canada, China to the UAE, he has been at the helm of some of the world’s most prestigious hospitality and real estate ventures.

Previously the Group President of Hospitality & Real Estate at KOHLER Co., Hulugalle drove innovation and strategic growth across a diverse portfolio. At Auberge Resorts Collection, he led the ambitious repositioning of a $210 million development. His 24-year tenure with Four Seasons saw him lead top-tier teams and deliver award-winning results across the globe.

But this latest chapter is deeply personal.

Having been semi-retired, Hulugalle’s return to Sri Lanka was sparked not by circumstance, but by calling and purpose. “This is not just a role,” says Hulugalle. “It’s a way of giving back to the country that raised me—with its gracious hospitality, boundless warmth, and vibrant soul.”

A Life Full of Colour, and a Vision to Match

Raised in a bustling household with five sisters, Hulugalle describes his upbringing as “full of life, colour, and chaos”—a dynamic energy that shaped his eccentric, vibrant, and whimsical personality. It’s this very spirit he intends to infuse into Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams: a bold, new vision of urban escapism, of global experiences grounded in local soul, and of Sri Lankan hospitality elevated to its highest form.

“Sri Lankan hospitality is naturally gracious and kind,” he reflects. “It’s in our DNA. My mother would’ve wanted me to return and give back.”

Parag Shah Appointed As General Manager At Grand Mercure Bangalore

Bangalore, April 2025 - Grand Mercure Bangalore is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Parag Shah as its new General Manager. 

Mr. Shah brings with him over two decades of rich and diverse experience in the hospitality industry, including more than ten years with Accor, where he has successfully led and contributed to iconic brands such as Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Novotel, and Mercure. Before this appointment, he served as General Manager at Mercure Hyderabad KCP, where he played a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and elevating guest satisfaction, earning multiple industry accolades, including “General Manager of the Year” by FHRAI and Accor South Asia. 

A results-driven leader, Mr. Shah is known for his strategic vision, commitment to service excellence, and deep understanding of the evolving needs of today’s travelers. His leadership at Grand Mercure Bangalore will focus on enhancing guest experiences, driving sustainable growth, and nurturing a culture of excellence among the team. 

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Shah said, “I am honored to join Grand Mercure Bangalore  and look forward to working with the talented team here to further elevate the hotel’s offerings  and create memorable experiences for our guests.” 

Grand Mercure Bangalore welcomes Mr. Shah and looks forward to his leadership in taking  the property to new heights.

Vaibhav Sagar appointed as the General Manager of soon-to-open Udaipur Marriott Hotel

With nearly two decades of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Vaibhav brings a proven track record of leadership, operational excellence, and strategic vision to the role

National, April, 2025 – Udaipur Marriott Hotel, the first hotel set to open in Udaipur under the flagship Marriott Hotels brand, today announced the appointment of Vaibhav Sagar as its General Manager. With nearly two decades of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Sagar brings a wealth of expertise in operations, strategic planning, and team leadership.

Sagar began his career with Hyatt Hotels, before making a successful transition into banking, where he worked with IDBI and Kotak Mahindra Bank. His return to hospitality saw him take on leadership roles with globally acclaimed hotel chains including InterContinental Hotels Group, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHHR Hospitality, and Radisson Hotel Group. This cross-industry experience has equipped him with substantial expertise in marketing, finance, and performance-driven hotel operations. His strong background further complements his strategic mindset and innovative problem-solving abilities.

Before joining Udaipur Marriott Hotel, he served as General Manager at Le Méridien Hyderabad since 2022, where he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the hotel’s performance, significantly enhancing guest satisfaction scores, operational efficiencies, and commercial outcomes. An alumnus of Cornell University's executive education program, Sagar also holds an MBA in Marketing and Finance.

Upon his appointment, Sagar expressed his enthusiasm: “I am honored to take on the leadership of Udaipur Marriott Hotel, a property with immense potential in one of India’s most vibrant hospitality markets. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to deliver exceptional guest experiences and set new standards of service in the region.”

Sagar’s proven leadership, cross-industry expertise, and commitment to service excellence position him as a valuable asset to the Udaipur Marriott Hotel team. His appointment is expected to enhance the hotel’s performance, strengthen its market presence, and deliver world-class experiences for guests.

Nestled against the majestic Aravalli Hills and overlooking the tranquil Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur Marriott Hotel is set to open in April 2025, marking Marriott International’s debut in the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan.

Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar appoints Mr. Amit Kapoor as the General Manager

Amit Kapoor is all set to embark on a new and exciting journey from Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar where he has been appointed the General Manager. Amit is ready to take on an all-encompassing role of the General Manager at newly opened Mercure Lucknow and will be responsible for the hotel’s overall performance in addition to front-lining all conversations.

In a career spanning more than two decades in the hospitality industry, Amit has impressive track record of success as he held prominent leadership positions at esteemed luxury brands, including Grand Hyatt, Marriott and Accor, shaping his reputation as a dynamic hotelier with a strategic vision. Before joining Mercure, he served as General Manager at Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, a leading hospitality firm. His career highlights also include roles such as Director Food and Beverage at Hyatt Chandigarh and Food and Beverage manager at Marriott International, where his leadership contributed to the hotels’ enduring success.

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Welcomes Neil James as the General Manager

National, April, 2025 – Sheraton Grand Palace Indore is delighted to welcome Neil James as its General Manager. With 18 years of hospitality experience, marked by robust leadership, operational expertise, and a keen focus on guest satisfaction, Neil is set to drive significant value for the hotel.

As the General Manager of Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, Neil will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences, driving strategic growth, and strengthening the property’s positioning in the market. His extensive knowledge in hospitality management, coupled with a passion for innovation and service excellence, will further enhance the hotel's reputation as a premier destination for luxury stays, dining, and events.

Neil's notable 18-year career showcases a remarkable trajectory, beginning as a Front Office Associate and culminating in roles like Director of Rooms. His extensive experience spans renowned brands such as Four Points by Sheraton, Le Meridien, and Courtyard by Marriott, both domestically and internationally. Most recently, as General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Vadodara, he significantly elevated the hotel's market standing and service quality. His contributions to the hospitality industry have garnered him significant recognition. He received the Hotel Bloggers Association's 2024 'Best General Manager, Gujarat' award, the prestigious Stephen G. Marriott Culture Award in 2018 for his positive workplace cultivation, and led his previous hotel to achieve the Platinum & Golden Circle Award for two consecutive years, showcasing his dedication to exceptional service.

On his appointment, Neil said, “Stepping into this role at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore is an honor. I'm excited to join this exceptional team and contribute to the hotel's continued success. My vision centers on elevating guest experiences through innovative approaches, ensuring seamless operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of excellence. I believe in empowering our team to deliver unparalleled service, creating truly memorable stays for every guest. Together, we will build upon the hotel's strong foundation, embracing new opportunities and solidifying its position as a leading destination in the region.” 

Beyond the world of hospitality, Neil finds balance and rejuvenation through his passions for reading and maintaining an active fitness regime.