Radisson Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Stuart Birkwood as the cluster GM

Radisson Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Stuart Birkwood as the cluster GM for Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City and Park Inn by Radisson, Dubai Motor City.

In his new role, Birkwood will spearhead the strategic operations of the hotels, which boast a combined total of 400 rooms, diverse award-winning dining venues, state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities, and a stellar reputation for hosting large-scale catering events.

Birkwood’s career spans over 30 years in the global hospitality sector, including opening and managing flagship properties, notably introducing the Radisson RED brand to the Middle East in 2019 as GM. His tenure at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis in Digital Park earned accolades for ground-breaking initiatives, such as establishing the first standalone podcast studio and achieving the Great Place to Work certification for the hotel. 

Previously, Birkwood also held leadership roles with other international hotel brands, including Aloft, Sheraton, and Le Meridien, delivering transformative results in guest experiences and revenue growth. His hands-on approach and visionary mindset have consistently positioned him as a leader in the industry.

Birkwood shared his enthusiasm: “I am honoured to join the Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City and Park Inn by Radisson, Dubai Motor City. These iconic properties represent the epitome of Dubai’s vibrant hospitality sector. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated teams to further elevate the guest experience and drive continued success.”

Rajani Nair Deb appointed as the General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Agra

Rajani Nair Deb has been appointed as the General manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Agra. With over 22 years of hospitality experience, Rajani most recently served as Commercial Director at Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, where she played a pivotal role in driving exceptional growth in hotel performance metrics. 

Prior to joining Hilton, Rajani served as Pre-Opening Director of Sales & Marketing at The Leela Gandhinagar and The Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre, where she made significant contributions to business growth.

Rajani's career is a testament to her expertise in business development, revenue management, and pre-opening planning. She has been a part of pre-opening landmark hotels like the Leela Palace Bengaluru, The ITC Sonar Bangla, HICC & Novotel Hyderabad – in various capacities in Food & Beverage Operations and Business Development.

She is a passionate advocate for gender equity and inclusiveness. She has led key initiatives like “Conversations that care ” and “Shakti at Hilton” which delve into sensitive gender inclusive issues and has been a member  in Hilton’s Women Team Member Resource Group (WTMRG). 

Her journey to becoming a General Manager has been shaped by continuous learning, having undertaken several leadership training programs like Shine 2 and Lead 3.1 to master aspects of hotel operations. She was also a part of the Woman in Leadership programme in 2023 (the 1st cohort of Hilton India).

Beyond her professional achievements, Rajani is an avid traveller who enjoys discovering new cuisines and cultures, and she loves to work with feline rescue initiatives, which adds a touch of warmth to her dynamic and driven personality

Her family consists of her husband Rudrojit and their cats – Felix and Fuzz Aldrin who joins her in Agra.

Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla Welcomes Ritesh Sharma as New General Manager

New Delhi, 2024 – Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla is delighted to announce

the appointment of Mr. Ritesh Sharma as its new General Manager. With over 23 years in

hospitality management, Mr. Sharma is known for his strategic leadership and expertise in

enhancing guest experiences, operational efficiency, and team engagement. His recent

achievements include successfully leading the pre-opening of Holiday Inn Katra Vaishno

Devi, where he rapidly positioned the property as a top-ranking hotel on TripAdvisor.

Previously, Mr. Sharma served as General Manager at Holiday Inn Express New Delhi

International Airport T3, where he excelled in operational excellence and guest satisfaction,

achieving multiple awards for the property. His association with Crowne Plaza began during

his tenure as Director of Rooms at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, where he was

instrumental in achieving top employee engagement scores and operational successes.

“I am thrilled to be back at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla,” said Mr. Sharma. “I look

forward to working with the talented team to deliver memorable guest experiences and to

drive growth and innovation. Together, we’ll continue building on the exceptional service

and brand excellence that Crowne Plaza is known for.”

About Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, a premium IHG branded Hotel located in the heart of

South Delhi offering integrated hospitality for business and leisure travellers. Located in the

heart of South Delhi, Crowne Plaza today New Delhi Okhla is approximately 21 kms away from

Indira Gandhi International Airport and city's domestic airport. The hotel is easily accessible to

local business complexes and multinational companies of Okhla Phase I, II, III, Mohan

Corporative Industrial State, Nehru Place, Jasola, Noida, Film City, Noida Expressway, DND

Flyway, Pragati Maidan, and India Expo Centre. Guests at Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla

can easily reach Delhi's major tourist attractions such as Lotus Temple, Red Fort, Qutab Minar,

Tughlakabad Fort, Humanyun Tomb, India Gate and Okhla Bird Sanctuary within 30 minutes from

the hotel.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Announces General Manager Appointments Across Properties

Pradeep Jodha – General Manager, SKK The Fern-An Ecotel, Jaisalmer With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Pradeep Jodha has been appointed as the General Manager of SKK The Fern-An Ecotel, Jaisalmer. Pradeep has a strong background in hotel operations and has worked with brands such as Suján, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, Keys Hotels, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels.

Pradeep has successfully led the pre-opening phases of hotel launches in Somnath, Ladakh, Rishikesh, and Manali, showcasing his expertise in project management and revenue optimization. With a strategic focus on profitability and guest satisfaction, Pradeep is committed to ensuring seamless operations and elevating the guest experience.

Hariom Tyagi – General Manager, Blue Ocean The Fern Resort & Spa, Ganpatipule

Assuming the role of General Manager at Blue Ocean The Fern Resort & Spa, Ganpatipule, Hariom Tyagi brings 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He will be responsible for overseeing hotel operations, managing budgets, and driving profitability at the property. Previously, Hariom held leadership positions at Suba Hotels in Ahmedabad and Spree Hospitality in Manali, where he gained expertise in operations and guest services. Known for his hands-on approach, Hariom is dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving operational excellence.

Pawan Kumar – Operations Manager, The Fern Residency, Haridwar

 With over 22 years of experience in hotel operations and sales, Pawan Kumar has been appointed as the new Operations Manager at The Fern Residency, Haridwar. In this role, he will oversee the daily operations of the hotel, manage budgets, and focus on driving profitability. Prior to this, he was heading operations at The Fern Residency, Noida.

Pawan’s extensive experience includes roles at Fortune Group, where he gained significant expertise in both operations and sales. He has a strong background in Food & Beverage services and has successfully led teams to streamline operations and enhance service standards. Pawan is committed to optimizing resources and ensuring seamless guest experiences while maintaining high operational standards. His leadership skills and deep understanding of hotel operations will be invaluable in achieving the financial targets and operational goals at The Fern Residency, Haridwar.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center Appoints Richard Charlie as Chef de Cuisine

Bengaluru, November 2024: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center is delighted to announce the appointment of Richard Charlie as Chef de Cuisine. With over 15 years of culinary expertise across some of the world’s most renowned hospitality brands, Richard brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and a deep passion for crafting unforgettable dining experiences.

Richard’s illustrious career has seen him excel in various leadership roles, including his recent position as Complex Head Chef at Le Meridien Hotel and Conference Centre, Dubai. There, he was instrumental in designing new, innovative menus tailored to diverse palates while consistently raising the bar on dining experiences. His experience in Dubai also includes prestigious roles at JW Marriott Hotel Dubai and Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, where he served as Chef de Cuisine and Senior Sous Chef, respectively. At the Westin, Richard collaborated closely with the Executive Chef, contributing to the strategic direction of the banquet and event offerings, while simultaneously crafting inventive menus that showcased his culinary vision.

In his new role at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, Richard will oversee the hotel’s dynamic food and beverage outlets, ensuring a blend of culinary creativity and operational excellence. His leadership will continue to elevate the guest dining experience, emphasizing both innovation and quality across the hotel’s kitchens.

Richard Charlie’s appointment underscores Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield’s dedication to culinary distinction, offering guests unique and memorable dining experiences.

Abdeali Zoomkawala appointed as Director of Operations at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg

Gulmarg/New Delhi, November 2024;Abdeali Zoomkawala comes to  The Khyber, Gulmarg with more than two decades of work experience in the hospitality industry. “We are happy to welcome Abdeali on board The Khyber as he brings with him a solid and varied experience in the hospitality industry. With The Khyber completing twelve years this year, his contribution to taking it to greater heights is eagerly anticipated,” says Vinit Chhabra, General Manager, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg.

Abdeali honed his professional skills whilst working with renowned brands such as The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai, The Trident Mumbai, The Leela Palace Bangalore, The Ritz Carlton Bangalore, Trident Hyderabad, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi, Oakwood Premier Prestige Bangalore, Bookmark, Manali (Justa Hotels & Resorts) and most recently with IF.BE Ice Factory Ballard Estate — a 140 year old ice factory that is now A place for the creative—A place for the community in the heart of Mumbai.

Abdeali has extensive experience in hotel management, pre-opening operations, and strategic leadership roles. Proven track record of achieving operational excellence, maximizing revenue and fostering guest satisfaction.

An alumnus of IIHM Aurangabad and Huddersfield University, Yorkshire, Abdeali holds a  BA in Hotel/ Motel Administration and Management. He further enhanced his skills by enrolling in various training programmes including on Positive & Effective Communication, Certificate of Recognition for Sales & Service Foundations Training, Sales Advantage Training by Dale Carnegie, "Magic of Fish" training by Interactive Skills, a course of ISABS (International Society for Applied Behavioural Sciences), Programme on Team Synergy conducted by Academy of Human Excellence and Certification in Butler Training Programme from the Ivor Spencer School of Butlers, United Kingdom.

Speaking on his appointment, Abdeali Zoomkawala, said, “I look forward to working with the talented team at The Khyber, India’s only luxury ski Resort. As a team we will strive to keep the flag flying high with world-class services, while continuously innovating to exceed the expectations of our guests. I hope to curate bespoke experiences, enhancing the property's brand identity.”

Proficient in English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Arabic (reading only) Abdeali is an avid and voracious reader and sports enthusiast.

Namaste Dwaar Resort Strengthens Leadership Team with Appointment of Jitender Jakhar

Namaste Dwaar Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jitender Jakhar as its new Operations Manager. With a strong background in hospitality management and a proven track record in hotel operations, Mr. Jakhar brings a wealth of experience and a dedicated approach to enhancing guest experiences at Namaste Dwaar Resort.

 Mr. Jakhar’s career in the hospitality industry spans more than a decade. Most recently, he served as Operations Manager at Hotel Mughal Suites in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE from November 2017 to May 2024. Before his role in the UAE, he served as Duty Manager at Bhanwar Singh Palace, Pushkar and Front Office at Samode Palace, where he displayed exceptional skills in guest relations and operations management. A graduate of Bikaner University, Mr. Jakhar holds an MBA degree.

Mr. Jakhar’s strengths include his dedication, responsibility and punctuality – few of his qualities that have helped him to grow in his career. His appointment comes at a time when the resort is focusing on delivering an enhanced guest experience while maintaining high standards across all departments.

In his new position, Mr. Jakhar will oversee all resort operations, ensuring seamless and efficient management of labour, productivity and quality control. Additionally, he will work towards supporting various department managers to further solidify Namaste Dwaar Resort’s positioning in the market.

Tucked away in the tranquil countryside, a mere 105 kilometres from Delhi NCR, Namaste Dwaar is strategically located on the Delhi-Haridwar-Dehradun highway. This serene retreat offers a seamless escape from the bustling city life while remaining easily accessible, making it the perfect getaway for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation.

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa Appoints Munmun Bhattacharya as Associate Director of Human Resources

Bangalore, November, 2024: Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa is delighted to announce the appointment of Munmun Bhattacharya as the Associate Director of Human Resources. With over 13 years of extensive experience in HR management, Munmun is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the resort’s talent development initiatives, employee engagement programs, and organizational policies.

Munmun has had an illustrious career in human resources, holding senior positions at leading hospitality brands such as The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata, Ibis Kolkata Rajarhat, and Ibis Kochi City Centre, as well as corporate leadership roles at V&RO Hospitality and Compass Group India. Her expertise spans talent acquisition, employee engagement, HR policy development, and strategic HR interventions. In her most recent role at Compass Group India, she managed HR functions across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, championing inclusivity and employee well-being.

A dynamic leader, Munmun has been instrumental in implementing progressive HR strategies, including talent development frameworks, rewards programs, and structured succession planning tools. Her efforts have consistently enhanced organizational culture and improved employee satisfaction.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Munmun Bhattacharya said, “Joining Clarks Exotica is an exciting milestone in my career. I look forward to creating an inspiring and inclusive work environment that empowers our employees to deliver extraordinary guest experiences. Together, we will continue to build on the resort’s legacy of excellence.”

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa is confident that Munmun’s leadership and expertise will bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to its HR function, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth. The team warmly welcomes her to the Clarks Exotica family and looks forward to a successful journey together.

JW Marriott Chandigarh Welcomes Ashish Ray as Director of Sales and Marketing

Chandigarh, November, 2024: JW Marriott Chandigarh is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashish Ray as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. With over 15 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Ashish brings a wealth of expertise, innovative strategies, and proven leadership to his new role.

Ashish’s illustrious career includes leadership roles at globally renowned hospitality brands such as The Leela, Hyatt, Accor, and Taj. His expertise in sales strategy, market analysis, team management, and client engagement has consistently driven revenue growth and strengthened brand presence.

Commenting on his appointment, Ashish shared, “I am excited to join JW Marriott Chandigarh, a property celebrated for its iconic presence and exceptional service. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team to drive growth and deliver outstanding results.”

Vishal Singh, General Manager of JW Marriott Chandigarh, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Ashish Ray to our leadership team. His extensive experience and innovative approach make him an invaluable addition. We are confident his expertise will propel the property to new heights of success and further enhance our brand’s market leadership.”

About JW Marriott Chandigarh: JW Marriott Chandigarh is a preferred destination for both leisure and business travelers. Its central location, impeccable service, and luxurious amenities have established it as a landmark in the region.  

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program.  For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

The Westin Goa appoints Satish Mahale as Director of Loss & Prevention

Satish is a seasoned expert in crisis management, security strategy, and emergency response

Satish Mahale is the new Director of Loss & Prevention at The Westin Goa. With over 18 years of experience in safety and security, Satish is a seasoned expert in crisis management, security strategy, and emergency response. He most recently served as Director of Security at Accor’s Novotel Goa Candolim and Novotel Goa Resort & Spa.

Satish has a proven track record in risk management, surveillance systems, fire safety, and law enforcement coordination. His extensive training includes certifications in active shooter response, fire safety, OSHA safety standards, and security access control, all contributing to his ability to lead in high-pressure situations while ensuring guest and staff safety.

In his new role, Satish will oversee the security operations at The Westin Goa, focusing on safeguarding property, guests, and employees while enhancing emergency response plans and risk management strategies.

Harish Gopalakrishnan, General Manager of The Westin Goa, shares, “We are thrilled to welcome Satish Mahale to our team. His wealth of experience and leadership in security will be instrumental in elevating safety standards and enhancing the guest experience at The Westin Goa.”

Zenith U joined Grand Mercure Bengaluru as the Rooms Division Manager

Throughout his tenure in the hospitality industry, Zenith has been recognized with multiple awards for his commitment to guest satisfaction and service innovation

Grand Mercure Bengaluru has appointed Zenith U as its new Rooms Division Manager. Zenith began his illustrious career spanning 10 years at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan and has since held significant roles across leading hospitality brands, including Novotel Pune, Novotel & ibis Chennai OMR, and ibis Chennai City Centre. Prior to joining Grand Mercure Bangalore, he served as the Director of Guest Services at ibis Chennai City Centre, where he managed Rooms and Food & Beverage operations. His tenure also included heading operations, demonstrating his exceptional leadership capabilities.

Zenith has been recognized with accolades such as Manager of the Year 2022 and the Best Personality Award (Rooms) on International Hospitality Day 2023, underscoring his commitment to guest satisfaction and service innovation.

Zenith’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in maritime hospitality studies from RL Institutes, Madurai, complemented by certifications in bartending and maritime safety. His comprehensive understanding of hospitality operations, coupled with a passion for creating memorable guest journeys, align perfectly with Grand Mercure Bengaluru’s commitment to delivering unique, vibrant, and personalized experiences.

Zenith’s appointment reflects Grand Mercure Bengaluru’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and delivering exceptional service standards in India’s competitive hospitality landscape.

Air India SATS appoints Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani as Chief Executive Officer

New Delhi, November, 2024: Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited (AISATS), India’s leading airport services management company, today announced the appointment of Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani as its Chief Executive Officer, effective 14th November 2024. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Mr. Ramana brings a wealth of experience in leadership, innovation, and operational excellence to the organization. This marks Mr. Ramana’s second tenure as AISATS CEO, a position he previously held from 2018 to 2021.

A passionate leader, Mr. Ramana started his career in 2001 as an engineer with the Defence Science and Technology Agency, where he played a crucial role in ensuring the reliability of fighter jets for the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). In 2006, he transitioned to Indeco Engineers, spearheading several turnkey projects for both commercial and military ground operations.

He joined SATS Ltd. in 2011, where his proven track record of innovation and leadership earned him significant accolades. Notably, he also led a fully-owned subsidiary of SATS to win Singapore’s prestigious National Productivity Award in 2016. He has held pivotal roles within SATS, including CEO of AISATS from 2018 to 2021, CEO of SATS Security Services in Singapore, and Head of Projects & New Services Delivery across the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr. Ramana holds a Bachelor of Engineering and a Master of Science in Logistics from the National University of Singapore. He also completed an Executive MBA course from Nanyang Technological University and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

On his new role, Mr. Ramana commented, “I am deeply honoured to return to AISATS as CEO. India holds tremendous potential in the aviation and ground/cargo handling sectors, and I look forward to leading AISATS towards delivering innovative solutions, operational excellence, and exceptional service for our customer airlines, passengers and service partners."

The Orchid Hotel Pune Promotes Dipak Singh to Assistant F&B Manager

Pune: The Orchid Hotel Pune has announced Dipak Singh's promotion to Assistant Food & Beverage Manager.

Dipak brings over eight years of hospitality experience to his new role, with a proven track record of delivering top-notch dining experiences. Since joining the hotel in 2020, he's been instrumental in making banquet experiences for their guests unforgettable.

Dipak’s career reflects a commitment to excellence. Having worked with esteemed properties like Holiday Inn, Marriott and Crowne Plaza, he has developed a deep understanding of crafting exceptional guest experiences. His expertise ranges from handling complex event setups to ensuring smooth day-to-day operations in high-pressure environments.

His attention to detail, warm hospitality, and team leadership skills as the banquet manager have earned Dipak exceptional feedback from his peers and guests alike. "I'm honored and grateful for this opportunity. I'm excited to contribute even more to our hotel's success and make our guests' come back again and again to The Orchid.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel appoints Ravi Rawat as the Assistant Pastry Chef

Bengaluru, November 2024: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center is delighted to announce the appointment of Ravi Rawat as its new Assistant Pastry Chef. A culinary artisan with over nine years of experience, Chef Ravi is renowned for his expertise in bakery and pastry arts, blending creativity with precision to deliver exceptional gastronomic creations.

Chef Ravi’s impressive career spans some of the country’s most esteemed establishments, including Grand Hyatt Kochi, The Westin Hyderabad, and Aloft Hotel Bengaluru. At Grand Hyatt Kochi, he led bakery operations, crafting innovative recipes and mentoring a team of pastry chefs. His remarkable contributions to the culinary world have earned him accolades. Among his notable achievements is the creation of the tallest edible Christmas tree at The Westin Hyderabad, a feat that garnered widespread acclaim.

Guided by a culinary philosophy that champions the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Chef Ravi curates’ desserts that cater to a diverse range of palates. His passion for innovation drives him to experiment with new techniques and flavors, ensuring every creation is a memorable indulgence.

In his new role, Chef Ravi will oversee the bakery and pastry operations at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center. With his artistic vision and leadership, the hotel’s dining experience is set to reach new heights, offering guests an exquisite array of desserts that perfectly complement its world-class hospitality. In his leisure time, he enjoys food photography and experimenting with new, creative recipes.

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel appoints Rajasekar as the Beverage Manager

Bangalore, November: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center is delighted to announce the appointment of Rajasekar as the new Beverage Manager. With an impressive career spanning over eight years in the hospitality industry, Rajasekar brings a wealth of experience in delivering top-tier guest satisfaction and driving impactful beverage operations.

Rajasekar’s career journey has been defined by his successful roles in premier hospitality establishments, most recently at Aloft Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, where he excelled as the Beverage Manager. His contributions included spearheading innovative beverage concepts and introducing cost-effective strategies that elevated the guest experience. His background also includes significant tenures at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, Radisson Blu Bengaluru, and Le Meridien Bengaluru, where his leadership, attention to detail, and ability to manage large teams have consistently delivered remarkable results, enhanced guest experiences, and increased revenue.

Among his many achievements, Rajasekar has been recognized for organizing high-profile events, such as the launch of ECHO Lounge Bar at Aloft. His accolades include the "Best Guest Voice Driven Employee of the Year" by Marriott in 2023 and a National Level Best Bartender award at COMETZ in 2017, showcasing his dedication to excellence and guest-centered service.

In his new role at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, Rajasekar will oversee beverage operations and is set to bring his signature blend of innovation, expertise, and leadership to further elevate the property’s food and beverage offerings. Guests can look forward to exciting, fresh additions to the drink menu as Rajasekar introduces unique flavors and contemporary concepts

Hilton Jaipur welcomes new Chief Engineer – Naveen Shekhawat

Naveen brings extensive experience in pre-openings, large-scale renovations, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of advanced technologies.

Naveen Shekhawat joins Hilton Jaipur as its new Chief Engineer. Naveen’s extensive career spanning 20 years boasts a proven track record in operations, maintenance, energy conservation, project management, and fire and life safety. He has built an impressive portfolio, working with prestigious brands such as Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.

As an accomplished engineering professional, Naveen is deeply committed to cultivating a secure and welcoming environment. He leverages his vast expertise and in-depth understanding of sophisticated engineering protocols to ensure the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency. His comprehensive experience spans pre-openings, large-scale renovations, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies. Naveen’s unwavering dedication to preserving the hotel’s assets and elevating product quality has been instrumental in his success across the industry’s most revered brands.

Commenting on his new role, Naveen said, “This is a truly exciting opportunity, and I am eager to bring my expertise and passion to Hilton Jaipur. My primary focus will be on maintaining the highest levels of quality and comfort for our guests and team, while also prioritizing our environmental and social responsibilities.”

Rahul Bhagat, General Manager of Hilton Jaipur, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Naveen to our leadership team. His extensive background in engineering, combined with his unwavering commitment to excellence and product quality, makes him the ideal leader for this role. With Naveen guiding our engineering operations, we are confident that Hilton Jaipur will continue to be a premier destination that prioritizes guest experience while upholding sustainability in all our engineering efforts.”

Mohammed Saleem Gafoor Joins Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru as Executive Pastry Chef

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is pleased to announce the appointment of Mohammed Saleem Gafoor as the new Executive Pastry Chef. With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality and a career that has spanned renowned international properties, Chef Saleem is set to bring a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and passion for pastry arts to the hotel’s esteemed culinary team.

Having worked with prestigious brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Ritz-Carlton, and Le-Royal Meridien, Chef Saleem has built a stellar reputation throughout his career. Most recently, he served as the Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotel & Resort Doha, where he led the pastry division for nearly a decade. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative dessert creations, Chef Saleem has worked with world-class teams and handled large-scale events, including the FIFA 2022 preparations in Qatar. His exposure across various Four Seasons properties, including cross-training in Mauritius and Bahrain, has equipped him with a unique global perspective, which aligns with Four Seasons’ commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences.

Commenting on his new role, Chef Saleem said, “I am honoured to join the talented team at Four Seasons Bengaluru. I look forward to continuing the legacy of excellence in pastry and elevating the dessert experience for our guests with my signature creations.”

The team at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is excited to welcome Chef Saleem as he embarks on this new chapter, bringing his innovative techniques and deep passion for pastry to the forefront of the hotel’s renowned culinary offerings.

Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West Appoints Mr. Nikhil Pol as the Chief Engineer

Mumbai, November 2024 –  Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s distinctive portfolio, is honored to announce the appointment of Mr. Nikhil Pol as the Chief Engineer.With nearly a decade of experience across several distinguished properties, Nikhil Pol brings a deep expertise in engineering and facility management that will be pivotal in driving operational excellence at Moxy Mumbai. 

Nikhil began his career in hospitality engineering as a Graduate Engineering Trainee with Taj Hotels, where he quickly distinguished himself. His first role was at the renowned Taj Fort Aguada, Goa, where he handled guest room renovations and rose to the position of Engineer. Nikhil then transitioned to the Ambassador - IHCL SeleQtions, New Delhi, where he served as Deputy Engineer for three years, honing his skills in maintenance and engineering coordination at a high-profile property.

Following his tenure in Delhi, Nikhil joined The Leela Goa as Deputy Chief Engineer and played an integral role in the seamless conversion of the property into The St. Regis Goa Resort. This accomplishment highlighted his commitment to quality and his capacity for overseeing complex transitions within high-demand hospitality environments.

As Chief Engineer at Moxy Mumbai, Nikhil will leverage his extensive technical knowledge and operational insights to ensure smooth coordination with the projects team, overseeing all technical aspects of the hotel’s operations. His role will be crucial in upholding Moxy’s standards for efficiency, innovation, and guest satisfaction through strategic engineering and maintenance practices.

Nikhil Pol’s appointment underscores Moxy Mumbai’s commitment to providing guests with a reliable and meticulously maintained environment, reflective of Marriott’s high standards. His proven track record in engineering excellence and hands-on approach make him an ideal leader for Moxy Mumbai’s energetic and inclusive ethos. Nikhil’s expertise will undoubtedly contribute to establishing Moxy Mumbai as a premier destination for modern travelers seeking a stylish and spirited experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, appoints Mahesh MS as Director of Engineering

Mahesh is known for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, has appointed Mahesh MS as the new Director of Engineering. With over 15 years of operational experience and a key presence at the hotel since 2019, Mahesh’s leadership continues to elevate the hotel’s commitment to excellence and luxury in hospitality.

Mahesh’s journey in the industry began at Ananda in the Himalayas before he joined Marriott in 2013 as Assistant Chief Engineer. He joined The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, in 2019 and rose through the ranks to the role of Chief Engineer in 2022, advancing to Assistant Director of Engineering in 2023, and now leading as Director of Engineering.

Reuben Kataria, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, expressed his confidence in the new leadership, stating, “As we welcome our new Director of Engineering, we recognize the significant impact of his expertise in our operations. An experienced leader who has risen through the ranks, Mahesh brings a profound understanding of our brand values. His technical acumen will not only elevate our operational excellence but also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to sustainable practices.”

Having played key roles at esteemed properties such as Marriott Resort & Spa Coorg, Le Méridien Hyderabad, and Fairfield Sriperumbudur, Mahesh is recognized for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability.

With Mahesh in this leadership role, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, looks forward to building on its dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences and responsible environmental practices.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Yogesh Pawar as General Manager – Procurement

Mumbai, November, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Yogesh Pawar as the new General Manager - Procurement. With over 21 years of extensive experience in procurement and supply chain management, Mr. Pawar will play a crucial role in developing and executing procurement strategies that align with The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ business goals, while also contributing to the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.

In his new role, Mr. Pawar will be responsible for developing comprehensive procurement plans, identifying and evaluating potential suppliers, negotiating strategic sourcing contracts, and improving supply chain visibility and performance across the company’s operations. His focus will also include optimizing costs, managing budgets, and implementing sustainable procurement practices that align with The Fern Hotels & Resorts' environmentally conscious brand values.

Mr. Pawar brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having worked with some of the most respected names in the hospitality industry such as Soho House Mumbai and The Accor Group, where he held senior positions. His in-depth understanding of procurement principles, strategies, and best practices, combined with a proven ability to align procurement functions with organizational goals, positions him as an invaluable addition to The Fern Hotels & Resorts team.

With a strong background in managing complex supply chains, negotiating contracts, and fostering relationships with vendors, Mr. Pawar is also highly experienced in implementing socially responsible and sustainable procurement practices. Mr. Pawar’s appointment underscores The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ continued commitment to building a robust, cost-effective, and sustainable procurement strategy across all its properties.