Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Welcomes Hiten Chaurasiya as Sales Manager

Mahabaleshwar, April 2025 – Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is pleased to announce the appointment of Hiten Chaurasiya as Sales Manager.

With an extensive background in hotel sales and a distinguished career spanning leading hospitality brands, Hiten brings a wealth of experience, market insight, and a strong passion for driving results.

Prior to this role, he served as Assistant Sales Manager at Sofitel Mumbai BKC, where he played a vital role in key account management and revenue growth. He has also held progressive sales positions at Trident Bandra Kurla, advancing from Sales Assistant to Sales Supervisor, and previously led reactive sales for Radisson Mumbai Goregaon.

Hiten began his hospitality journey with JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, and over the years, he has built a stellar reputation for his strategic thinking, relationship-building skills, and deep understanding of the Mumbai and Maharashtra markets.

In his new role, Hiten will be based in Mumbai, leading the hotel’s remote sales office operations while contributing to the continued success of Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar.

Please join us in welcoming Hiten Chaurasiya to the Courtyard family! We look forward to his contributions and leadership in expanding our market reach and elevating our brand’s presence.

ITDC Welcomes Ms. Mugdha Sinha, IAS as New Managing Director

New Delhi, May 2025: India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Tourism, proudly announces the appointment of Ms. Mugdha Sinha, IAS (1999 batch Rajasthan cadre) as its new Managing Director.

A senior bureaucrat, with rank of Additional Secretary, known for her visionary & dynamic leadership, Ms. Sinha brings over two decades of vast experience across governance and administration. Her previous impactful role as Director General of Tourism at the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, saw her play a pivotal role in shaping National tourism policies, particularly in area of innovation and big data. She also served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, where she led the GLAM division overseeing significant cultural and tourism initiatives. Her work focused on promoting India’s heritage while integrating it with tourism development efforts; a valuable asset as she now leads ITDC’s transformation journey.

In her new role, she will oversee ITDC’s diverse verticals, including The Ashok Group of Hotels, Ashok Events, Ashok Travels & Tours, Ashok Institute of Hospitality & Tourism Management (AIH&TM), Ashok International Trade (Duty free shops), Catering units and Ashok Consultancy & engineering Services.

Commenting on her appointment, Ms. Sinha said, “It is a privilege to join ITDC. My focus will be on modernising operations, enhancing the tourism and hospitality experience, and building a globally competitive brand rooted in India’s rich cultural heritage.”

With this appointment, ITDC looks forward to a dynamic phase of innovation, growth, and renewed positioning in the global tourism and hospitality landscape.

About India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC):

ITDC was incorporated in 1966 with a mandate to develop and expand tourism infrastructure in the country. The Corporation has been moving ahead with consistent efforts on development, growth, and high-quality services and amenities to its guests. Apart from running Hotels, the ITDC has diversified into non-hotel sectors like Ticketing, Tours and Travels, Event Management, Duty-Free Shopping, Publicity & Printing Consultancy, Engineering Consultancy, mounting Sound & Light Shows, Hospitality education and skill development– all under one roof.

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Appoints Jyotika Sahani as Director of Business Development and Fuzail Nervekar as Director of Catering

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, the city’s leading luxury destination, is delighted to announce the appointments of Jyotika Sahani as Director of Business Development and Fuzail Nevrekar as Director of Catering. These strategic promotions reinforce the hotel’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and personalized guest experiences.

With nearly two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Jyotika Sahani brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. Transitioning from her previous position as Director of Catering Sales, she is known for her strategic foresight and strong client relationships. In her new role, Jyotika will lead the hotel’s business development initiatives, driving revenue growth and forging brand partnerships that further position Four Seasons Mumbai as the benchmark for luxury in the city.

Fuzail Nevrekar’s journey with Four Seasons began in February 2014 as a Guest Services Agent. Over the past 11 years, he has steadily grown within the organisation, transitioning into roles as a Wedding Specialist and a leader in Catering Sales. His deep understanding of client needs, coupled with his creative approach to event curation, has made him a respected figure in the luxury wedding and catering space.

Together, Jyotika and Fuzail led the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai team to win the prestigious Best Catering Team – Asia Pacific at the Pinnacle Awards 2024, presented by Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. In addition to this honour, the team successfully exceeded all assigned budgets in 2024, a testament to their dynamic leadership and dedication.

“We are delighted to have Jyotika and Fuzail step into these pivotal roles,” said Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai. “Their leadership, passion, and commitment to excellence will continue to drive our success in delivering unparalleled experiences to our guests.”

With these appointments, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai strengthens its position as a leader in luxury hospitality, business innovation, and bespoke event experiences.

Estella Hale Appointed as Vice President of Commercial Strategy for Zucchetti North America's Hospitality Division

Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin – April 2025 - Zucchetti North America is pleased to announce the appointment of Estella Hale as the Vice President of Commercial Strategy for the company’s hospitality division. With more than 20 years in the hospitality industry – the last 10 of which were in strategic leadership roles – and her extensive knowledge of hospitality technology, Estella's leadership will play a pivotal role in further enhancing Zucchetti North America's position as a leading provider of innovative solutions for the hospitality sector.

In the new role, Estella is responsible for overseeing the market growth of Zucchetti North America’s suite of hospitality industry solutions. Estella’s extensive experience in hospitality technology will make her insights invaluable in more clearly defining the company’s regional vision for their hospitality products and will work closely with cross-functional teams to drive deeper penetration in the North American market. She will also be responsible for ensuring that the company’s tech stack meets the regional market needs, while remaining in alignment with the company’s global product marketing strategy.

"We are thrilled to welcome Estella Hale to our team," said Mark Lewis Brown, President & CEO of Zucchetti North America. "Her knowledge, experience and proven track record for maximizing the commercial performance for leading hospitality technology companies make her the perfect fit to lead Zucchetti North America’s strategic commercial initiatives. We are confident that Estella's vision and insights will enable our team to continue to deliver cutting-edge solutions to all our clients."

The company’s tech stack is designed to support hotels’ operations across all internal departments, providing the entire distribution eco-system, enhancing guest experiences and improving connectivity efficiency for hotels. Estella's expertise will be instrumental in further developing and optimizing these solutions to meet the evolving needs of the North American market.

Prior to joining Zucchetti North America, Estella was the Chief Commercial Officer at HotelIQ, where she developed and implemented the company’s strategic vision and oversaw commercial operations. Other previous roles included leading strategic sessions at Deloitte’s Greenhouse® and executive leadership roles at leading hospitality technology companies, including, SHR, iHotelier and Whiteboard Labs.

Estella has a master’s degree in technology commercialization from Texas McCombs School of Business, which was the inspiration behind her current passion for leading innovative technology companies to optimize their commercial strategies to maximize their operations and overall profitability.

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

Sayaji Hotels strengthens leadership with the elevation of Ajay Kanojia as Associate GM – Operations

National, April 2025 : Sayaji Hotels, a leading name in Indian hospitality and known for its signature “Yours Truly” service, is reinforcing its leadership team with the elevation of Ajay Kanojia to the position of Associate General Manager – Operations at the Sayaji Hotels.

With an illustrious career spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry, Ajay brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of operational excellence. His redesignation comes as part of Sayaji Hotels’ continued commitment to nurturing strong leadership that drives performance, guest satisfaction, and sustainable growth. Throughout his career he has showcased exemplary leadership, having held key positions at renowned hotel chains including Hotel Park Plaza, Hotel Jaypee Residency, and Lemon Tree Hotels.

In his expanded role, Ajay  will be responsible for providing strategic direction, driving year-on-year growth, strengthening staff engagement, and leading key operational oversight across the Group. While his primary focus will be on maintaining the highest standards of service and enhancing guest experiences, he will also take charge of curating initiatives aligned with Sayaji’s ‘guest-first’ philosophy.

 Expressing his enthusiasm for this new chapter, Mr. Ajay Kanojia said,“I’m truly honoured to take on this expanded role at the Sayaji Group, a brand that embodies heartfelt hospitality and excellence. This new chapter presents an exciting opportunity to work closely with our talented teams to further, streamline operations, and implement innovative strategies that align with our core values. As we move forward, my focus will remain on driving service excellence, fostering a culture of growth and collaboration, and ensuring that every guest interaction reflects our ‘Yours Truly’ philosophy.”

Saba Dhanani Corporate Head of Marketing & Communications “We are thrilled to have Ajay Kanojia take on the role of Associate GM – Operations. His expertise, and leadership have been invaluable to the organization, and we are confident that under his guidance, our properties will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the hospitality industry.”

Sayaji Hotels continues to invest in leadership that mirrors its vision of offering heartfelt hospitality and delivering memorable experiences to every guest.

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.

Sumit Bhardwaj Joins Novotel Guwahati GS Road as Director of Sales

Novotel Guwahati GS road a leading hotel in the heart of Guwahati, is proud to announce the appointment of Sumit Bhardwaj, an experienced and dynamic sales leader, as its new Director of Sales. With a wealth of expertise in the hospitality industry, Sumit brings a proven track record of driving revenue growth and building strong client relationships

Prior to joining Novotel Guwahati GS Road, Sumit served as the Associate Director of Sales at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, where he was responsible for driving Corporate segment and increasing the hotel GDS Share along with managing the team. His journey in his career with brands like Hyatt, IHG in the sales, business development and guest delight, Will Help the hotel elevating the guest experience and Hotel position.

Sumit holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management, Guwahati, His academic foundation, combined with years of hands-on experience, has equipped him with the skills and insights to thrive in his new role.

"We are thrilled to welcome Sumit Bhardwaj to our team at Novotel Guwahati GS Road," said Manmeet Singh, General Manager of Novotel Guwahati GS Road. "His extensive experience, proven leadership abilities, and commitment to excellence make him the perfect fit for the role Director of Sales. We are confident that under his guidance, our hotel will continue to create a position in the market and unforgettable experiences to our guests."

In his role as Director of Sales, will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s sales strategy, managing key accounts, and expanding market presence and maintaining the high standards of quality and hospitality that Novotel Guwahati GS Road is renowned for.

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.

Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla Welcomes Mr. Keshari Ranjan Tiwari as Director of Sales & Marketing

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Keshari Ranjan Tiwari as the new Director of Sales & Marketing. A visionary commercial leader with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Tiwari brings a wealth of knowledge in business development, market expansion, brand building, and hotel operations.

With a dynamic career spanning across leading hotel brands such as IHG, Radisson Hotel Group, The Leela Group, The Grand New Delhi, and The Suryaa, he has consistently demonstrated excellence in sales strategy, revenue optimization, and client relationship management. His last assignment was with Radisson Blu Faridabad, where he led the cluster sales strategy for Delhi-NCR.

Mr. Tiwari is not only a results-driven strategist but also a team mentor with a strong belief in leadership through empowerment. His academic background includes a Bachelor’s in Hotel Management and a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing & HRM).

Apart from his professional acumen, he is also an avid reader and passionate about writing poetry—bringing a creative edge to his leadership style.

On his joining, Mr. Ritesh Sharma, General Manager, said, “We are excited to have Keshari back with us at Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla. His strategic mindset and industry expertise will further strengthen our commercial performance and brand presence in a competitive landscape.”

We look forward to an inspiring journey ahead under his leadership.

Alma Resort Cam Ranh Welcomes Frederic Savoye as Chief Commercial Officer

CAM RANH, Vietnam (April 2025) – A seasoned hospitality professional with more than two decades’ experience working for some of the industry’s biggest names in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the United States, has been appointed chief commercial officer at Alma Resort Cam Ranh.

French national Frederic Savoye joins the award-winning 30-hectare beachfront resort on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula after working in the Middle East as vice president of sales and marketing for Fairmont Raffles Hotels International in the Middle East, Africa and India, and Hilton Worldwide’s regional commercial director for both Western and Southern Europe as well as Eastern Europe, Russia and Turkey.

He was Kempinski Hotels’ country director of sales and marketing for Egypt, and Sofitel Luxury Hotels’ vice president of sales, pricing, distribution and revenue for Northern, Central and Eastern Europe.

Savoye studied an undergraduate degree in economy and management sciences and a master’s degree in finance, marketing and management sciences with the University of Paris in the mid to late 90s. During the noughties, he was the Sofitel Bucharest World Trade Center’s room division director before progressing to director of sales and marketing roles at Novotel New York Times Square and for AccorHotels in the Czech Republic. 

In his new role with Alma, he will head Alma’s Commercial Division, overseeing sales, marketing and reservations.

“With a strong background in commercial, operations, and asset management, Frederic brings profound global experience in hospitality and leisure management with prestigious organisations to the table,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler. “We look forward to his strategic yet creative approach to overseeing our Commercial Division and building upon Alma’s many achievements since its December 2019 debut.”

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.

Chef Mohit Bhowar joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Executive Sous Chef

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar announces the appointment of Chef Mohit Bhowar as its Executive Sous Chef. With over 17 years of experience in prestigious hospitality brands such as Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Renaissance Hotels, and Hilton, Mohit brings a wealth of expertise in culinary arts, kitchen management, and guest experience. A graduate of IHM Aurangabad, he has earned accolades like ‘Best Manager of the Year’ (2019, Fairfield by Marriott Goa Anjuna) and represented Indian cuisine internationally.

Before this, Mohit was Head Chef at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Doha, and played key roles in pre-opening projects for Marriott and Hilton properties. He excels in quality control, operational efficiency, and mentoring future culinary talent. At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Mohit will lead the culinary team to elevate dining experiences across venues with his innovative and guest-focused approach. The hotel warmly welcomes him as he embarks on this new journey.

Antara Cruises Appoints Vineet Arora as Chief Operating Officer

Delhi, April, 2025 – Antara Cruises, a pioneer in the river cruising industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Vineet Arora as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). With over 22 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Arora brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Antara Cruises.

Mr. Arora has made significant strides in his distinguished career, including his earlier tenure as VP at Antara Cruises, where he played an essential role in leading the development of the world’s longest river cruise project. During this time, he also contributed to the brand’s growth and positioning in the luxury river cruise segment. Prior to rejoining Antara Cruises as COO, he was successfully involved in building a hospitality company that operates 25 resorts from the ground up, demonstrating remarkable leadership and strategic foresight. His well-rounded expertise spans operations, sales, marketing, and business development across both established brands and emerging startups, underscoring his adaptability and deep industry insight.

Mr. Raj Singh, Founder & Chairman, Antara Cruises - Heritage River Journeys Pvt Ltd. welcomed his appointment, stating "Vineet’s leadership and deep understanding of hospitality and cruise operations make him a perfect fit for Antara Cruises. His expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of our heritage river journeys, ensuring that we continue to set new benchmarks in the industry".

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Vineet Arora stated, "It’s a great pleasure to join Antara Cruises in its mission to redefine luxury river cruising. I look forward to enhancing guest experiences, promoting sustainability, and making a meaningful impact on the local community and the company."

Antara Cruises is renowned for its commitment to sustainable, and community-enhancing river cruise tourism. The company offers unique experiences along India's majestic rivers, emphasizing the preservation of local cultures and environments.

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway Appoints Gaurab Dey as the Director of Operations

Bengaluru, April 2025: Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Gaurab Dey as the new Director of Operations. With over 14 years of rich experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Gaurab brings a proven track record in operational excellence, pre-opening expertise, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

In his new role, Gaurab will oversee the hotel’s daily operations, drive efficiency across departments, and elevate guest satisfaction at every touchpoint. His leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the hotel’s reputation as one of Bengaluru’s leading destinations for both business and leisure travellers.

Gaurab’s impressive career spans over 14 years and includes a long-standing association with Marriott International, where he has held key leadership roles across multiple brands. His last assignment was as Cluster Director of Food and Beverage at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake and Lakeside Chalet – Marriott Executive Apartments. Prior to joining the Marriott family, he was associated with some of India’s most iconic hospitality brands, including ITC Hotels and The Oberoi Group, where he served in various capacities. Throughout his career, he has played a vital role in the successful pre-opening and launch of several landmark properties such as ITC Royal Bengal, The Oberoi Gurgaon, JW Marriott Kaaafu Atoll Island Resort in the Maldives, and Moxy Mumbai. Known for his innovative approach to hospitality, he has successfully conceptualized and led distinctive F&B outlets such as Mayouchi, Nox, Mizuki, and Moxy Bar. A true beverage connoisseur, Gaurab is celebrated for transforming bar programs into immersive storytelling experiences—seamlessly blending regional heritage, global trends, and seasonal ingredients.

Commenting on his appointment, Ms. Sushma Khichar, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gaurab to the Sheraton Grand family. His passion for excellence, people-first leadership, and innovative thinking align perfectly with our vision of delivering world-class hospitality. We look forward to his contributions in taking our operational and guest experience standards to new heights.”

Gaurab’s appointment reflects Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel’s ongoing commitment to fostering top talent and redefining modern luxury hospitality in the heart of the city.

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. 

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Bakul Pednekar as Director of People & Culture

A Homegrown Leader Returns to India, Bringing Global Expertise and
A Heartfelt Commitment to Excellence

Bengaluru, April  2025: Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is delighted to announce Bakul Pednekar's appointment as Director of People & Culture. A seasoned Four Seasons professional and culture bearer, Bakul brings over 17 years of rich, cross-continental experience shaped by the brand’s deep-rooted values of empathy, excellence, and service from the heart.

Bakul’s Four Seasons journey began in 2007 in stewarding operations at the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai. This humble beginning blossomed into a remarkable career through his innate leadership, emotional intelligence, and people-first approach. He has since held key Human Resource roles across some of the brand's most iconic properties, including Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Kuda Huraa, and most recently, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, where he served as Director of People & Culture for nearly three years.

“Bakul is a shining example of our belief in nurturing talent from within,” says Biswajit Chakraborty, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. “His journey reflects the essence of Four Seasons, growing leaders who live our values daily. With his global perspective and deep understanding of our culture, I am confident he will enrich our team and take our People & Culture practices to even greater heights.”

Known for fostering inclusive and purpose-driven workplaces, Bakul has led diverse teams, spearheaded impactful learning programs, and championed employee well-being, earning admiration from colleagues and accolades from the industry. His leadership is grounded in a profound respect for people and a passion for creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, seen, and empowered.

Bakul will lead the People & Culture function at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, shaping employee experiences that inspire excellence and reflect the brand’s legendary service philosophy. His return to India marks a full-circle moment — combining global expertise with local intuition to nurture the next generation of hospitality leaders. At Four Seasons, service begins with genuine care for people, and Bakul’s story is a living example of that philosophy in action.

Ashwin Handa Takes Over As Chief Operating Officer

A proven leader, Ashwin Handa will be steering operational excellence across all properties in Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan in line with the expansion plans of Atmosphere Core.

India, April 2025 – Atmosphere Core, a dynamic hospitality company, is pleased to announce the promotion of Ashwin Handa to Chief Operating Officer, South Asia. This strategic elevation comes at a pivotal moment, as the company accelerates its growth trajectory across South Asia and beyond while reinforcing its internal culture and brand identity. This significant promotion is the first of a lineup of strategic elevation of existing and new leadership.

Salil Panigrahi, Managing Director Atmosphere Core said, “It is a proud moment that reflects our culture of recognising, trusting, and empowering deserving individuals within the organisation. Ashwin is a collaborative leader who holds our teams, values, and ambitions together. His ability to capture both the big picture and the smallest detail and have it executed seamlessly results in a high level of operational efficiency and strong business performance”.

Reflecting on his appointment, Ashwin Handa said, “It is an honour and privilege to be recognised and step into this role at a time of expansion and evolution for Atmosphere Core. I look forward to continuing this journey with our talented teams as we strengthen our brand presence, enter new markets, and build on our commitment to exceptional, heartfelt hospitality”.

With more than 3 decades of experience in hospitality in India, Maldives and Nepal, Ashwin brings deep operational expertise, commercial acumen, and people-focused leadership. In this expanded senior executive role, he will oversee operations across all properties in the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan, and is tasked with fine-tuning excellence and embedding the group’s ethos, Joy of Giving, at every guest and team touchpoint.

Mr. Ashish Dhebe- Squad Champion, Alokik Sharanam Zinc Journey by The Fern, Lake Tapola, Mahabaleshwar

With over sixteen years of rich and diverse experience in the hospitality industry, Ashish Dhebe has been appointed as Squad Champion at Alokik Sharanam Zinc Journey by The Fern, Lake Tapola, Mahabaleshwar. In this role, he will lead overall hotel operations, streamline processes and ensure that every guest interaction reflects the highest standards of service and hospitality.

Ashish’s deep-rooted expertise spans across multiple facets of hotel management, with a strong focus on operational efficiency, team leadership and delivering memorable guest experiences. Throughout his professional journey, Ashish has held key leadership roles with several prominent hospitality brands, where he successfully led initiatives that enhanced both guest satisfaction and operational outcomes.

In his role as Squad Champion, Ashish is dedicated to upholding the core values of the brand, while fostering a culture of service excellence, collaboration and innovation that will further elevate the guest experience at this unique lakeside destination.

The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Kota Appointed Mr. Rajneesh Kumar - Operations Manager

With over fifteen years of comprehensive experience in the hospitality industry, Rajneesh Kumar has been appointed as Operations Manager at The Fern–An Ecotel Hotel, Kota, where he will oversee the daily operations, manage budgets and ensure the achievement of gross operating profit (GOP) targets in alignment with the hotel’s strategic goals.

Rajneesh brings with him a strong foundation in hotel sales and food & beverage operations, having built his career through a results-driven approach and a deep understanding of operational dynamics. In his previous roles, Rajneesh held key positions at Sarovar Portico, Ajmer and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Kota, where he consistently demonstrated success in implementing effective sales strategies and managing food & beverage operations with precision and attention to detail.

In his current role as Operations Manager, Rajneesh is committed to delivering operational excellence, maximizing profitability and fostering a culture of service that aligns with The Fern’s commitment to sustainable and guest-centric hospitality.