Cleartrip Strengthens Leadership, Appoints Tech Veteran Manoj Awasthi to Lead User-Centric Innovation

National, Tuesday, May 2025: Cleartrip, a Flipkart company and India’s fastest-growing online travel technology brand, has announced the appointment of Manoj Awasthi as its Chief Technology Officer (CTO). The appointment is a strategic move to bolster the company’s leadership and further its ambition to be a tech-first travel brand that makes travel planning seamless, intuitive and delightful for modern Indian travellers. At Cleartrip, Manoj will lead the tech charter, bringing together engineering, data, and infrastructure to build a more scalable and user-focused platform.

Prior to joining Cleartrip, Manoj served as the Chief Technology & Product Officer at Julo, where he played a pivotal role in launching category-first fintech products like JULO Turbo (5 mins disbursement), Klikilat (one click transaction), Protect+ (embedded insurance), to name a few while organizing Core Technology and Product Engineering divisions for continuous focus on core foundations of Infrastructure, Security, QA and IT & Networks. Manoj brings over two decades of deep expertise across engineering leadership, platform innovation, and digital transformation and has also worked with Tokopedia and Adobe in the past.

Ramesh Gururaja, Senior Vice President, Consumer Products & Growth, Flipkart said, “Manoj’s appointment is a big step forward in building a future-ready leadership team with strong, cross-functional expertise. His arrival aligns perfectly with our vision of strengthening our tech platform to drive long-term growth and innovation. With him on board, we’re doubling down on intuitive design, product agility, and tech-led differentiation, all of which are critical to building a truly category-defining travel platform.”

Manoj Awasthi, Chief Technology Officer, Cleartrip, “I’m excited to join Cleartrip, a brand that’s all about making travel planning a joyful experience. Over the years, I’ve led large product and engineering teams and built platforms that serve millions. At Cleartrip, I look forward to bringing that experience to modernize our tech stack, make room for faster experimentation, and build systems that make travel planning simpler and smoother for our users.”

Sayaji Kolhapur Appoints Gaurav Gaur as Director of Operations

Sayaji Kolhapur is pleased to announce the appointment of Gaurav Gaur as the new Director of Operations. With a distinguished career spanning 23 years in the hospitality industry, Gaurav brings a wealth of experience and leadership, having been associated with prestigious brands such as Marriott, Welcomgroup, Radisson, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Leisure Inn Grand Chanakya, Ramada Valley, Akshaj Hospitality Service, Ramee Rose Hotel, and Regenta Central, among others.

“We are delighted to welcome Gaurav Gaur to the Sayaji family. His extensive experience and proven leadership in hospitality operations make him an ideal fit for our team. We are confident that his strategic vision and dedication will further strengthen Sayaji Kolhapur’s position as a preferred destination for our guests,” said Mukesh Rakshit, General Manager, Sayaji Kolhapur. 

Gaurav holds an MBA in Hospitality from Institute Vatel, Nimes, France, and has consistently demonstrated a strong track record in operational excellence and strategic growth. Prior to joining Sayaji Kolhapur, he served as General Manager at Regenta Central Mewargarh in Udaipur, where he played a pivotal role in elevating the property's performance and guest satisfaction.

In his new role at Sayaji Kolhapur, Gaurav will lead the operational team in delivering high standards of service and ensuring exceptional guest experiences. His deep industry insight and commitment to excellence make him a valuable addition to the Sayaji Parivar.

“I am truly honoured to join Sayaji Kolhapur, a brand known for its warmth, service excellence, and guest-centric approach. I look forward to working with the team to elevate the operational standards and create memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors,” said Gaurav Gaur, Director of Operations, Sayaji Kolhapur.

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu Announces the Appointment of Chef Roberto Apa

Introducing the Culinary Visionary Behind Mezzo Mezzo

Mumbai, May 2025: JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu proudly announces the appointment of Chef Roberto Apa as the Executive Chef of its newly launched modern European cuisine restaurant, Mezzo Mezzo. With over 15 years of global culinary expertise, Chef Roberto seamlessly blends traditional techniques with his own creative approach, curating a dining experience that is truly exceptional.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Tradition

Chef Roberto’s culinary story began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where his love for food first took shape. Originally from Naples, Italy, he honed his skills at AMLA - The National Academy of Italian Cuisine, deepening his understanding of Italian and international gastronomy. His passion for authentic flavors took him across Italy, China, France, Montecarlo, Qatar, and now, India.

Experience with Culinary Masters

Before arriving in India, Chef Roberto made a mark at prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide. His career includes working alongside renowned chefs such as Peppe Aversa of Ristorante Il Buco and Marco Bistarelli of Ristorante Il Postale in Perugia, both trained under Maestro Gualtiero Marchesi, the pioneer of modern Italian cuisine.

A New Culinary Chapter at Mezzo Mezzo

At Mezzo Mezzo, Chef Roberto combines handcrafted recipes with the finest locally sourced ingredients to create memorable dining experiences. His commitment to authentic Italian techniques and personal engagement with guests ensures an atmosphere that is both welcoming and refined.

Chef Roberto Apa on His Vision

"Innovation in the kitchen is about balancing tradition with fresh ideas. At Mezzo Mezzo, the menu reflects the vibrant energy of Mumbai—light, playful flavors for sundowners and deeper, indulgent dishes as the night unfolds. The city inspires me to weave local influences into modern European cuisine, making each dish familiar yet exciting."

With Chef Roberto Apa at the helm, Mezzo Mezzo promises a unique fusion of modern European flavors, elevating JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and culinary experiences.

Dynamic hospitality leader joins Courtyard by Marriott Navi Mumbai as Director of Sales and Marketing

Mumbai, May 2025 — Courtyard by Marriott Navi Mumbai has appointed Nitin Gohri as its new Director of Sales and Marketing. Nitin’s exceptional track record in driving revenue growth and delivering unparalleled customer experiences positions him as a valuable asset to the hotel’s innovative team

In his capacity as the Director of Sales and Marketing, Nitin will spearhead the hotel's strategic marketing initiatives, brand development, sales and customer engagement strategies to further promote the commercial interests of the award-winning property and strengthen its position as a premier destination in the Navi Mumbai market. 

Eager to embark on this new journey at Courtyard by Marriott Navi Mumbai, Nitin said on his announcement, "I am thrilled to join the dynamic team at Courtyard by Marriott Navi Mumbai which is strategically located and contribute to the brand’s legacy of exceptional hospitality and create newer streams for revenue. Together, we will cultivate memorable experiences for our guests and achieve new milestones of excellence."

Nitin's remarkable career includes successful stints with prestigious hotel brands, where he played pivotal roles with Westin Goa, Taj Land’s End, Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Taj Palace New Delhi. 

Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa appointed Harpal Singh as Executive Chef

With over 20 years of experience in professional cookery, Chef Harpal brings a deep passion for culinary excellence, innovation, and guest satisfaction.

Chef Harpal joins the resort from JW Marriott Hotel Muscat, where he served as Executive Sous Chef, leading the culinary operations for an ultra-luxury resort with multiple dining outlets. Throughout his career, he has worked with prestigious hospitality brands such as W Maldives, InterContinental Danang, The Oberoi Kolkata, and Taj Goa, gaining extensive expertise in Mediterranean, Indian, Asian, steakhouse, vegan, and kosher cuisines.

In his new role at Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, Chef Harpal will be responsible for curating exceptional dining experiences, menu innovation, and ensuring the highest standards of quality, hygiene, and sustainability in the kitchen. His leadership will further elevate the resort’s culinary offerings, enhancing the gastronomic journey for guests.

Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa appointed Rajesh Kumar as Director of Sales

With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Rajesh Kumar brings a strong background in strategic sales planning, revenue generation, and business development.

Rajesh has been associated with renowned hospitality brands, including Leisure Hotels Group and DS Hotels, where he played a key role in driving sales performance, strengthening market presence, and building lasting client relationships. His expertise in key account management, market analysis, and innovative sales strategies has contributed significantly to the success of the properties he has worked with.

In his new role at Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, Rajesh will develop and implement sales strategies, expand business opportunities, and enhance the resort’s positioning in the market. His leadership will play a crucial role in attracting both leisure and corporate travellers to this premier destination.

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.

Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar Appoints Mampi Biswas as the Talent & Culture Manager

Lucknow, May, 2025: Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar announced the appointment of Mampi Biswas as its new talent & culture manager. With an illustrious career spanning over 6 years in the hospitality industry, Mampi brings wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

Mampi is a seasoned professional and results-oriented. She brings a wealth of expertise garnered from her previous role as Assistant Manager Talent & Culture at Grand Mercure Bengaluru, Gopalan Mall, and her tenure with hotels, including Novotel Guwahati GS Road, MAYFAIR Lake Resort, and Swissotel Kolkata, where she completed her Industrial training.

Her extensive skill set encompasses talent acquisition, payroll management, compensation and benefits, employee engagement, grievance handling, and data analytics. Beyond her technical expertise, Mampi strongly believes in employee engagement and development. She is committed to fostering a positive work environment that values employee contributions and fosters individual growth.

“We are delighted to welcome Mampi to our team. Her experience and strategic approach to HR management will be invaluable as we continue to build a vibrant and inclusive workplace. We are confident that her leadership will contribute significantly to our success,” said Amit Kapoor, General Manager, Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar.

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.”

ECKO Hotels & Resorts proudly announces the appointment of Ankit Upreti as its Co-founder

ECKO Hotels & Resorts proudly announces the appointment of Ankit Upreti as its Co-founder, marking a significant step in the brand’s journey toward redefining hospitality excellence in India. With this leadership expansion, ECKO reinforces its commitment to exceptional guest experiences, strategic growth, and innovation-driven service.

Bringing over 16 years of expertise in hospitality sales, Ankit Upreti is widely recognized for his ability to cultivate trusted client relationships, drive revenue, and position hotels for long-term success. His career spans multiple regions, where he has led high-performing sales teams across North, West, Central, and South India—consistently enhancing hotel performance in every market. His most notable tenure was with Lemon Tree Hotels, where he specialized in the profitable pre-opening and positioning of new properties. As one of the youngest Cluster Heads of Sales, Ankit managed a portfolio of 21 hotels across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Goa, demonstrating a unique blend of operational acumen and sales strategy.

Beyond his proven sales leadership, Ankit possesses deep operational knowledge across food and beverage, human resources, stores, and finance, ensuring a comprehensive approach to hotel management. His emphasis on continuous learning and his ability to stay ahead of industry trends make him a forward-thinking leader in the evolving hospitality landscape.

Ankit’s strategic vision aligns perfectly with ECKO Hotels & Resorts’ core values of individuality, community, sustainability, and technology-driven excellence. “I am thrilled to co-create ECKO Hotels & Resorts, a brand that stands for individuality, community, sustainability, and technology,” said Ankit Upreti. “As we expand, I’m excited to deliver unique guest experiences and build meaningful connections.”

With his leadership, ECKO Hotels & Resorts is set to accelerate its expansion across India, crafting memorable guest experiences and strengthening its position as a pioneering hospitality brand.

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway announces the appointment of Shashi Pal as Food & Beverage Manager

Bengaluru, May 2025: Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Shashi Pal as the new Food & Beverage Manager. A seasoned hospitality professional with over 15 years of industry experience, Shashi brings a strong background in nightlife, luxury dining, and high-volume event operations to his new role.

He will oversee the food and beverage operations at the hotel’s premium outlets at The World Trade Center: The World Café, High Ultra Lounge, and Horizon. His focus will be on driving excellence in guest experiences, streamlining operations, and introducing innovative culinary initiatives.

Prior to joining Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway, Shashi held senior leadership roles including General Manager at Terre and Reset by Plan B BYOB, and Associate General Manager - Operations at Belcibo Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., where he successfully managed leading nightclubs such as Khubani and Imperfecto. Over the years, he has also worked with reputed brands such as The Westin Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, and Olive Bar & Kitchen, and has curated high-profile events for diplomats, celebrities, and corporates.

A certified beverage trainer by Moët Hennessy, Shashi has received multiple accolades, including the Emerging Leader of the Year 2023 and CARE FOR GUEST Award by The Westin Hyderabad. His career is marked by a consistent track record of revenue growth, brand collaborations, and operational excellence.

He holds an MSc in Airline Tourism and Hospitality Management from Punjab Technical University and a Bachelor of Arts from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla.

Commenting on the appointment, Mrs. Sushma Khichar, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway, said,"We are delighted to welcome Shashi Pal to our leadership team. His diverse experience, creative mindset, and result-oriented approach make him an excellent fit to lead our food and beverage operations. We are confident that his passion for hospitality and expertise in delivering memorable dining experiences will further elevate our culinary offerings."

Shashi Pal’s appointment reflects the hotel’s commitment to nurturing dynamic talent and reinforcing its position as a leading hospitality destination in the city.

Rahul Kharat Joins Lords Hotels & Resorts as Corporate Human Resource Manager

Lords Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Rahul Kharat as Corporate Human Resource Manager. With a distinguished career spanning over 27 years, his core strength lies in talent acquisition, employee engagement, policy formulation, and administration. His ability to align human resource practices with business goals creates a significant impact on the organisational goals.

In his new capacity, Rahul will spearhead the group’s talent strategy, focusing on enhancing employee satisfaction, streamlining recruitment processes, and fostering a culture of continuous development. With Rahul Kharat at the helm of its HR function, Lords Hotels & Resorts reinforces its commitment to excellence in both hospitality and human capital development.

“We are delighted to welcome Rahul to the Lords family,” shared Sudhir Jena, Corporate Vice President. “His expertise in team building, and developing organizational behaviour will play a pivotal role in driving team performance and strengthening our brand value as we continue to invest in our people and culture.”

Expressing his enthusiasm, Rahul stated, “It’s a privilege to join Lords Hotels & Resorts in this leadership role. I look forward to building on the organization’s strong values while cultivating a workplace environment that champions growth, inclusion, and community engagement.”

About the group - Lords Hotels & Resorts: Elevating Hospitality across 70 Hotels and 3000+ keys spanning 3 nations.

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune Announces Appointment of Dimple Bhatt as Director of Spa

Pune, May 2025: The Ritz-Carlton, Pune is delighted to announce the appointment of Dimple Bhatt as Director of Spa, overseeing all wellness, spa, and athletic club operations at the iconic luxury property. With a decade of progressive experience in wellness hospitality and an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, Dimple brings with her a wealth of industry knowledge and a strong track record in luxury spa management.

Dimple joins The Ritz-Carlton, Pune from The St. Regis Mumbai, where she served as Spa Manager and was instrumental in driving spa profitability, curating bespoke wellness journeys, and delivering a consistently exceptional guest experience. Under her leadership, the spa at The St. Regis Mumbai achieved significant revenue growth through innovative wellness programming, strategic marketing initiatives, and operational excellence.

Her career has spanned some of the most esteemed hospitality brands including JW Marriott Mussoorie, Holiday Inn Mumbai, and Radisson Blu Pune, where she held key roles across spa operations, training, and team development. Notably, she has been credited with increasing spa revenue by over 50% in prior roles by leveraging personalised guest engagement and targeted upselling strategies.

In her new role at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, Dimple will lead the Spa and The Athletic Club, focusing on elevating wellness experiences through innovation, sustainability, and exceptional service standards. She will be responsible for developing holistic wellness journeys that reflect The Ritz-Carlton brand’s commitment to luxury, mindfulness, and transformative hospitality.

A graduate of the Management Development Institute of Singapore, Dimple holds a BSc (Hons) in International Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management. Her strengths lie in strategic thinking, team leadership, stakeholder engagement, and curating wellness initiatives that resonate with modern luxury travellers.

Passionate about exploring the world and its diverse cultures through global cuisine and insightful reading, Dimple brings both a worldly perspective and a deeply personal touch to her work. Known for her hands-on leadership style and people-first mindset, she believes that true wellness stems from meaningful connections, personalised care, and purposeful hospitality.

Her appointment marks an inspiring new chapter for wellness at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune — one defined by passion, innovation, and a vision for nurturing the mind, body, and spirit.

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Chirag Zubin Lacca as the new Director of Sales

Mumbai, May 2025: JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Chirag Zubin Lacca as the new Director of Sales. 

A proactive, ambitious hospitality professional, Chirag brings a deep-rooted commitment to excellence and exceptional industry expertise with over 10 years of experience. Armed with a B.A. (Hons.) degree in Hotel Management from IHM Aurangabad, Chirag thrives in deadline-driven hospitality environments. With a track record of Profit and loss-focused success, he has excelled in cultivating excellent relationships with existing clients and newer prospects. Over the years, Chirag has driven revenue growth and ensured profitability across clients globally. Chirag’s contributions have earned him numerous achievements, he has successfully fostered key partnerships with Public Sector Bank (PSB)’s to tie-up for Holiday Home Plan across 40 hotels of IHCL Portfolio thereby increasing account contribution by 115% over preceding years. Chirag has retained key accounts which contribute to a tune of 20% of Non-Resident Banquet Revenue to the Flagship – Taj Mahal Palace & Tower. Ancillary programs of the group were effectively leveraged to increase segment sales to PSU, PSB’s and Key corporates in the portfolio.

His illustrious career spans across esteemed brands like Taj Hotels and Accor Hotels. Prior to joining JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Chirag was at GSO Pune and held the position of the Associate Director of Sales for Taj. He has also played a pivotal role as the Director of Sales in Taj Wellington Mews, Mumbai; Account Manager at Indian Hotels Company Limited, South Mumbai (PSU, Corporates); Sales Manager at Taj Wellington Mews, Luxury Residencies, Mumbai; and  Assistant Sales Manager at Novotel Hotels, Goa. 

In his new role, Chirag will be responsible for handling complex negotiations and implementing strategic sales initiatives that align seamlessly with the brand’s pursuit of elevated guest experiences. With a strong belief in a Collaborative work style, Chirag will work closely with all the business segments, emphasizing teamwork, trust, and tolerance, thus fostering an environment conducive to achieving financial objectives while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is thrilled to welcome Chirag Lacca and looks forward to his contributions in furthering the hotel’s growth and success.

Fairmont Mumbai Elevates Culinary Excellence Under the Leadership of Prasad Metrani as Director of Culinary

Mumbai, May 2025 – Fairmont Mumbai is delighted to have Prasad Metrani as Director of Culinary. A visionary with over two decades of experience, he brings an exceptional depth of expertise from his journey through some of the most prestigious luxury establishments worldwide.

Prasad Metrani’s career in hospitality was deeply influenced by his passion for culinary arts and his innate desire to create extraordinary dining experiences. Starting his career in the kitchen, Prasad immersed himself in mastering techniques and understanding the nuances of global and regional flavors. His dedication and curiosity drove him to explore innovative ways to blend tradition with modernity, turning every dish into a work of art. "What attracted me to the culinary world was the endless opportunity to innovate and tell stories through food. For me, it’s not just about cooking; it’s about creating an experience that connects with people on a deeper level," he shares. This philosophy continues to define his approach, making him a trailblazer in the industry.

Prasad Metrani began his career with the Taj Group of Hotels, gaining valuable experience across iconic properties like Taj Mahal, Taj Palace Delhi, and Taj Bengal Kolkata. His passion for world-class dining led him to pursue and work at renowned places globally such as the Seabourn Cruise Liners where he refined his skills in curating exceptional gastronomic experiences. His leadership roles at prestigious hotels like Grand Hyatt, Fairmont Jaipur, Raffles Udaipur, and Conrad Bangalore have greatly enhanced his ability to innovate dining experiences, and manage global teams. Now rejoining Fairmont as Director of Culinary, Prasad expresses his excitement, "I am thrilled to return to Fairmont, a place that has always held a special place in my heart. It’s an incredible opportunity to combine my global experiences and culinary knowledge to elevate the dining experience here in Mumbai."

As his role as Director of Culinary he exclaims "What sets Fairmont Mumbai apart is its commitment to being “anti-ordinary.” From innovative table-sides to theatrical presentations, each dining experience is crafted to captivate guests and create unforgettable moments." Drawing on his 20 years of global culinary experience, Prasad’s passion for storytelling and guest engagement will shape every aspect of the hotel’s food and beverage offerings. By incorporating food rituals and unique concepts, his role is to ensure that each meal is not just about dining, but about an immersive experience. With meticulous attention to detail, Prasad is dedicated to establishing Fairmont Mumbai as a benchmark in luxury dining, blending tradition with modern culinary innovation and sustainability

Udaipur Marriott Hotel Strengthens Leadership Team with Key Appointments

National, May 2025: Udaipur Marriott Hotel, the first hotel in Udaipur under the flagship Marriott Hotels brand today announced the appointment of key leadership roles across verticals, further solidifying its commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and brand growth.

Tapan Mudgal joins Udaipur Marriott Hotel as Director of Food & Beverage, bringing over a decade of experience and having been part of the pre-opening team since January 2025. In his new role, he will lead the F&B division across the 226-room property, focusing on revenue growth, operational excellence, and elevated guest experiences. Previously, as Director of F&B at Jaipur Marriott, Mudgal achieved record-breaking revenues and successfully led high-profile events. Known for his people-first leadership and commitment to talent development, he is set to play a pivotal role in defining the hotel’s culinary and service standards.

Arjun KS, Director of Finance, brings with him 14 years of rich experience and a sharp focus on financial strategy and associate development. His Marriott journey began at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, and he has since held key roles across multiple properties including Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, Courtyard & Fairfield by Marriott Outer Ring Road Bengaluru, Sheraton Hyderabad, and Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel. Prior to this, he served as Director of Finance at Moxy Mumbai. With deep expertise across the Marriott portfolio, Arjun is well-positioned to drive financial excellence and support the hotel’s long-term growth.

Manish Vishwa, appointed as the Director of Engineering, brings over 20 years of experience in engineering operations across leading hospitality brands, including Hyatt, Marriott, and Amari, contributing his expertise to hotel pre-openings, refurbishments, and ongoing operations. His focus on infrastructure management and cost-effective solutions will be key to maintaining the hotel’s operational excellence.

Khushboo Sharma has been appointed Assistant Director of Human Resources at Udaipur Marriott Hotel. With 13+ years of experience, she began her career at Taj Lake Palace and has worked with Oberoi, Radisson, and Marriott since 2021. Most recently with Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad, Khushboo brings a people-first approach rooted in respect, excellence, and a passion for empowering teams.

Harish Chauhan has been appointed as the Room Division Manager, bringing a strong track record from leading roles at The Westin Pushkar, Raffles Udaipur, and Hilton Jaipur. With a focus on guest satisfaction, team development, and operational excellence, his leadership is set to elevate the hotel’s service standards and overall guest experience.

Akhilesh VR, appointed Executive Housekeeper, brings 16 years of experience managing housekeeping operations across leading hotel brands such as Marriott International, Radisson Blu, Hyatt, ITC The Luxury Collection, and Club Mahindra Holidays. His expertise in team leadership and operational efficiency will be integral to maintaining high standards of guest satisfaction and quality at Udaipur Marriott Hotel.

Pradip Chandra Das has been appointed as the Loss Prevention Manager, with a strong background in safety and security across Marriott properties. His extensive certifications and experience managing high-risk situations will enhance safety and security at the hotel.

Shiv Prakash joins Udaipur Marriott Hotel as IT Manager, bringing over a decade of expertise in hospitality tech across marquee Marriott properties like JW Marriott Jaipur and Jaisalmer Marriott. Skilled in system integrations, compliance, and pre-opening setups, Prakash will ensure seamless and future-ready IT operations at the hotel.

Paramjot Soni joins Udaipur Marriott Hotel as Marketing and Communications Manager, bringing extensive experience across Marriott, IHG, and Chalet Hotels. With expertise in digital marketing, PR, brand partnerships, and content strategy, she’s known for her creative vision and hands-on approach. Paramjot will lead impactful campaigns to elevate the hotel’s visibility and positioning.

These strategic appointments mark a significant milestone in Udaipur Marriott Hotel’s journey, bringing together a dynamic team of seasoned professionals dedicated to upholding the brand’s promise of excellence.

ABOUT MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotels, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. 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.

Sayaji Hotels Elevates Sumera Dhanani to Corporate Head – Business Development

National, May 2025: Sayaji Hotels, a trailblazer in Indian hospitality known for its signature “Yours Truly” service, is proud to announce the elevation of Ms. Sumera Dhanani to the role of Corporate Head – Business Development. This appointment is a testament to the Group’s ongoing commitment to recognizing dynamic leadership and empowering individuals who exemplify excellence, strategic foresight, and deep alignment with Sayaji’s vision of exceptional guest experiences.

In her new capacity as Corporate Head - Business Development, her mandate includes identifying new business opportunities, strengthening the brand’s footprint across emerging markets, and cultivating high-impact partnerships that align with Sayaji’s ethos of heartfelt, personalized hospitality. With her proven drive and visionary leadership, Sumera is uniquely positioned to unlock new value streams and steer Sayaji Hotels into its next transformative phase of growth and innovation.

Upon her appointment, Sumera expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am thrilled and privileged to embark on this exciting journey at Sayaji Hotels. In my new role, I look forward to cultivating influential partnerships across the hotel industry, seamlessly integrating them into the Sayaji Hotel brand, and leading a transformative Sales and Marketing strategy to elevate the group's market position. 

Raoof Dhanani, Managing Director, said, “Sumera’s elevation within the Sayaji Group reflects our belief in nurturing talent that drives tangible business outcomes. We’re confident that her forward-thinking approach will play a critical role in accelerating our growth trajectory and unlocking new opportunities for the brand”.

Sumera’s appointment marks a significant milestone in Sayaji Hotels' journey of growth and innovation. As the Group continues to expand its presence and redefine hospitality standards, the addition of visionary leaders like Sumera ensures that Sayaji remains at the forefront of delivering unparalleled experiences to its guests. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Sayaji Hotels is poised to script an inspiring new chapter under her strategic leadership.