JK SPICES & FOOD PRODUCTS (JK Masale) Appoints Saif Ali Khan as Brand Ambassador - A Royal Union of Legacy and Modernity

August 2025 – India: Founded in 1957 ,JK Masale has spent over six decades building a legacy of purity, trust, and authenticity. The journey began with the late Shri Dhannalal Jain - affectionately known as “Jeera King” - has grown into one of India’s most respected spice brands, known for its unwavering commitment to quality.

Today, JK Masale proudly announces, Bollywood’s renowned, actor Saif Ali Khan as its brand ambassador – a collaboration rooted in shared values and legacy. In Saif, the brand sees a natural alignment. As a member of one of India’s most celebrated royal families and a widely respected actor, he represents the ideal balance of heritage and modern appeal. His credibility, charm, and sophistication echo the journey of JK Masale - where deep-rooted tradition meets the evolving tastes of contemporary India.

“In Saif Ali Khan, we see a reflection of our own journey,” said Ashok Jain , Managing Director of JK Masale  “His royal lineage, refined persona, and the trust he commands make him a natural fit for a brand like ours. This partnership goes beyond endorsement - it is a union of legacies, where tradition and modern taste come together.” The campaign featuring Saif will centre around three key themes:

Royalty & Heritage – Both JK Masale and Saif Ali Khan are defined by strong legacies. JK Masale’s presence in Indian kitchens for over 67 years mirrors Saif’s long-standing cultural and cinematic lineage.

Authenticity & Trust – JK Masale’s long-standing reputation for purity and consistency across generations is reflected in Saif Ali Khan’s enduring and respected presence in the public domain, making him a fitting ambassador for the brand’s values of integrity and reliability.

Modern Sophistication – While rooted in tradition, both the brand and its new ambassador reflect a refined, forward-looking sensibility - appealing to the new-age consumer who values both depth and style.

This partnership comes at a significant moment in JK Masale’s journey. With a major investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Jaipur, the brand is embracing cutting-edge technology, and the upcoming plant will house advanced grinding units, cold storage, and precision packaging systems – enhancing production capacity by 1480 tonnes per month to meet growing domestic and international demand.

With a stronghold in India, the brand also exports to countries like UK, South Korea, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, Bhutan, and many more countries. The association with Saif Ali Khan underscores JK Masale’s long-term vision: to honour its legacy while stepping confidently into the future -through innovation and expansion.

Fairmont Udaipur Palace Appoints Rajan Malhotra as Director of Sales and Marketing

Udaipur, August 2025 – With over two decades of experience across India’s leading luxury hospitality brands, Rajan Malhotra brings a refined commercial acumen and destination-first mindset to his role as Director of Sales & Marketing at Fairmont Udaipur Palace.

Throughout his career, Rajan has been instrumental in building revenue strategies for some of the country’s most prestigious hotels, with a proven track record across the high-growth segments of destination weddings, MICE, and experiential luxury travel. His strength lies in translating a property's physical grandeur into strong market positioning—developing storytelling-led sales strategies that connect deeply with clients and evolve brand perception.

At Fairmont Udaipur Palace, Rajan is leading a dynamic commercial vision that positions the hotel not just as a palace, but as a landmark destination for extraordinary celebrations and business gatherings. With the largest room inventory in Rajasthan’s luxury segment, two grand banquet halls, scenic terraces, and four expansive gardens, the hotel offers a level of scale and flexibility that few properties in the country can match.

Under his leadership, the sales and marketing function is expanding its focus across multiple verticals—luxury weddings, intimate private celebrations, high-end leisure, and business events—while ensuring that each guest experience remains bespoke and flawlessly executed. With Fairmont’s global legacy, Accor’s strength in distribution, and Udaipur’s inherent charm, Rajan is crafting a narrative that’s as emotionally resonant as it is commercially compelling.

A central pillar of his strategy is the repositioning of Udaipur as a serious MICE contender on the global stage. Historically celebrated for its romantic weddings, the city is now being reintroduced as a premium business destination through Rajan’s efforts—backed by infrastructure that supports gatherings from 50 to 2,000 delegates, expansive indoor-outdoor venues, and partnerships that enable seamless integration across neighboring properties.

Rajan’s leadership also extends to reimagining guest journeys through thoughtful programming—such as Fairmont Udaipur Palace’s signature arrival rituals, curated in-room experiences, and elevated service touchpoints. His approach prioritizes not just operational efficiency, but emotional connection—ensuring that every guest, whether a bride, delegate, or celebrant, feels deeply cared for.

With a focus on personalization, brand-led storytelling, and strategic segmentation, Rajan Malhotra is set to shape Fairmont Udaipur Palace into one of India’s most iconic luxury destinations—where grandeur is matched by warmth, scale is balanced by service, and every event becomes a timeless memory.

Park Hyatt Hyderabad Welcomes Gopi Krishna as Director of Finance

Hyderabad, India – Park Hyatt Hyderabad is pleased to announce the appointment of A. Gopi Krishna as Director of Finance.

Gopi joins us from Hyatt Hyderabad Gachibowli, where he served as Director of Finance for the past five years. With over 25 years of extensive experience in hotel accounting and financial operations, he brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to his new role.

During his tenure at Hyatt Hyderabad Gachibowli, Gopi oversaw all aspects of the finance department, including financial planning, cash flow and payment management, statutory compliance, and audit coordination. Recognized for his practical approach and strong financial oversight, he played a key role in ensuring smooth and efficient operational performance.

Gopi also brings valuable experience from his work with leading international hospitality brands, including global groups such as Accor. He now joins Park Hyatt Hyderabad from across the bridge, contributing his strong local insight along with a deep commitment to innovation, integrity, and excellence in hotel finance.

Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim Welcomes Vandana Joshi as Rooms Division Manager

Goa, August 2025 – Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim is proud to announce the appointment of Vandana Joshi as the hotel’s new Rooms Division Manager.

With over 17 years of diverse experience in hospitality operations, Vandana has built an impressive career across some of India’s most prestigious hotel brands. She started her journey at Hyatt Regency Bengaluru and progressed to pre-open Hyatt Amritsar and Hyatt Pune. Her expertise lies in Rooms Management & Operations, with experience working in the luxury hotel segment at the distinctively iconic 'The Lodhi', before starting her Marriott journey at Courtyard Chennai and later contributing to the pre-opening of Navi Mumbai as a Rooms Trainer. For the past decade, she has been with Marriott International in South Asia, most recently as Assistant Manager Operations - South Asia, where she played a pivotal role in multiple regional initiatives including sustainability and loyalty programs for both Managed and Franchise properties. 

In her new role at Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim, Vandana will leverage her deep knowledge of Rooms and Operations to elevate service quality, streamline processes, and create memorable guest journeys. She also aims to strengthen associate engagement by cultivating a people-first culture, where happy teams translate into happier guests.

Speaking on the appointment, Vinayak Patnekar, General Manager, Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim, said:

“Vandana brings not only a wealth of operational expertise but also genuine warmth and passion for people. Her leadership style—grounded in trust, knowledge-sharing, and empowerment—makes her a valuable addition to our team. We are excited to see her create exceptional experiences for our guests.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Vandana is deeply passionate about fitness and wellness. A calisthenics athlete who is also a trained yoga and Animal Flow instructor, she actively engages in community initiatives, reflecting her belief in holistic wellbeing both at work and in life.

The Den Bengaluru appoints Anindita Tah as Executive Housekeeper

Bengaluru, : The Den Bengaluru had announced the appointment of Anindita Tah as the new Executive Housekeeper. Anindita possesses over 15 years of experience from some the of the country’s top hotel chains as a top rated employee. She focuses on guest experience having worked on operational management, human resources, and service creativity and innovation. 

Some of the hotels she has worked which include Sterling Mac Hotel, Suryagarh Jaisalmer, Sheraton Bengaluru, Gokulam Park Kochi, and The Lalit Goa. Anindita has earned a reputation of an expert in implementing high housekeeping efficiency, service training, and optimizing service performance with guest expectations. She has been acclaimed for her budgeting, paying attention to details, and the care for the environment in the hotel industry. 

Excited to join the team, Anindita shares, “I’m thrilled to be part of The Den Bengaluru and look forward to elevating the housekeeping experience in line with the hotel’s millennial luxury positioning. My focus will be on innovation, consistency, and a guest-first approach in every detail.”

With this new appointment, Mr. Vinesh Gupta, the General Manager of the Den hotel in Bengaluru has expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Anindita Tah to The Den Bengaluru. Her extensive experience, eye for detail, and passion for guest-centric service perfectly align with our vision of delivering exceptional millennial luxury experiences.”

Raffles Udaipur appoints Shri Raj Goswami as Director of Food & Beverage

Hospitality veteran brings global expertise to elevate the resort’s culinary landscape.

August 2025 Raffles Udaipur announces the appointment of Shri Raj Goswami as the Director of Food & Beverage. With over 12 years of experience across the finest global luxury hospitality brands, Shri Raj brings with him an impeccable depth of expertise, refined sensibilities, and a strong commitment to curating extraordinary gastronomic journeys.

In his new role, Shri Raj will helm the operations of Raffles Udaipur’s diverse dining landscape, comprising nine restaurants and bars, as well as the resort’s exceptional banquet and event offerings. His leadership will play a pivotal role in elevating the bespoke culinary experiences that are a hallmark of the Raffles brand.

Prior to joining Raffles Udaipur, Shri Raj served as the Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at The Ritz Carlton, Pune, where he was responsible for six restaurants and bars, in-room dining, and expansive banquet operations. His professional journey includes significant tenures at The Four Seasons in Maldives and Bahrain, The Oberoi in Agra, and Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. A certified sommelier with credentials from the Court of Master Sommeliers and WSET, Shri Raj’s style of leadership is rooted in innovation, cultural nuance, and storytelling through food.

Sharath Rajan appointed General Manager of Fortune Airport Road Kochi

Experienced hospitality leader takes charge to drive operational excellence and enhance guest experiences.

August 2025 Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels’ Group, announces the appointment of Sharath Rajan as the General Manager of Fortune Airport Road Kochi.

With over 18 years of diverse experience, Sharath brings a strong track record of driving operational excellence and delivering exceptional guest experiences. In his new role, he will oversee the hotel’s operations, including guest services, team leadership, quality assurance, and overall property performance.

Sharath’s career spans leadership positions across renowned hospitality brands, including Accor, Hyatt Regency, Crowne Plaza (IHG), Hilton, and Marriott, with experience both in India and overseas. His expertise covers room division operations, guest experience enhancement, revenue optimization, and hotel promotions, equipping him to bring a dynamic, guest-focused approach to Fortune Airport Road, Kochi.

Indian Craft Brewery welcomes Kunal Joshi as the new Business Head

(Bengaluru, August)– Indian Craft Brewery (ICB) has announced the appointment of Kunal Joshi as its new Business Head. With an experience of over two decades in the hospitality and F&B space, Kunal steps into the role to lead ICB through its next phase of growth and innovation.

In his new role, Kunal will head the overall business operations of ICB’s flagship 2-acre, 1500-seater brewery in Bengaluru.  He will lead end-to-end operations while also driving the brand’s taproom expansion plans and multi-vertical growth strategy.

“Craft beer is more than just a beverage- it is a celebration of storytelling, community, and passion. These are values I have always resonated with and ICB brings them to life in the most authentic way. I am thrilled to join a team that is so committed and dynamic and I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of this remarkable journey.”, said Kunal Joshi, Business Head, ICB

Kunal brings with him an impressive leadership journey with senior roles at Hard Rock Cafe India, V&RO Hospitality, Sidecar India, and Krispy Kreme. From launching high-volume outlets to leading cross-functional teams and driving record-breaking revenues, he has consistently delivered results across formats and regions. During his tenure at Hard Rock Cafe India, he was instrumental in the post-pandemic revival of the brand, successfully launching five new outlets.

Gopichand, Founder, ICB added - “Kunal’s appointment comes at a time when ICB is entering a new phase of growth and experimentation. His deep understanding of operations and guest experiences, coupled with a proven track record in scaling hospitality brands makes him the ideal partner to help us realise our long-term vision. We are excited to have him on board.”

Kunal is an alumnus of IHM Goa with a Diploma in Hotel Management, holds a BA from Delhi University, and a Diploma in Business Management from IMT Ghaziabad.   

Holiday Inn Amritsar Welcomes Mr. Pradeep Sharma as General Manager

Amritsar, India, August 2025 – Holiday Inn Amritsar is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Pradeep Sharma as its new General Manager. This move exemplifies IHG’s ongoing commitment to nurturing internal talent and advancing leadership within the organization, in line with the company’s Room to Grow philosophy.

Mr. Sharma brings with him extensive experience from his time across several prestigious IHG properties, including Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad and Crowne Plaza Gurugram. His operational expertise spans the full spectrum of hotel management, with a strong focus on Food & Beverage and operational excellence. As Area Food & Beverage Champion for Southwest Asia, he led regional initiatives to enhance F&B offerings, ensuring consistent innovation and service quality across multiple hotels.

In addition to his IHG experience, Mr. Sharma has held leadership roles with global hospitality brands including Hilton, Radisson, and London Park Hotels in the UK, enriching his leadership capabilities and enabling him to leverage diverse market insights and operational best practices.

An alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Pradeep combines his academic foundation with practical expertise to deliver results. Known for his guest-centric and inclusive leadership style, he believes in fostering teamwork, discipline, and a performance-driven culture—principles he also applies in his personal passion for outdoor sports.

Mr. Pradeep Sharma, General Manager – Holiday Inn Amritsar, shared: “Amritsar offers an exciting opportunity to blend modern hospitality with the rich cultural heritage of the region. My vision for the hotel is to build a bridge between the local community and international travellers by creating authentic, locally inspired experiences. Through strong partnerships with local artisans, food producers, and tourism bodies, we’ll deliver unparalleled service and create bespoke experiences that reflect the true essence of Amritsar. Our focus will be on driving innovation in both our offerings and guest engagement, ensuring we deliver excellence at every touchpoint.”

Pankaj Gupta, Area General Manager – IHG Southwest Asia, commented: “Pradeep’s vast expertise in hotel operations, combined with his focus on strategic growth and innovation, makes him a natural fit to lead Holiday Inn Amritsar. His ability to drive operational excellence, alongside his commitment to local collaboration, will ensure that the hotel continues to evolve and stand out in this competitive market. We are confident that under his leadership, Holiday Inn Amritsar will continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences, rooted in the unique charm of the city.”

Fairmont Udaipur Palace Announces Vishrut Gupta as General Manager of this magnificent new destination

Udaipur, August’2025 – Fairmont Udaipur Palace is delighted to announce the appointment of Vishrut Gupta as General Manager of this magnificent new palace in the Aravalli Hills. With over two decades of distinguished experience in luxury hospitality, Vishrut brings to the role a rare blend of strategic foresight, emotional intelligence, and a deep-rooted passion for culturally immersive guest experiences. His thoughtful leadership and commitment to excellence position him perfectly to helm this new-age palace and shape it into one of India’s most iconic luxury destinations.

As the driving force behind the pre-opening and launch of this iconic destination, Vishrut is focused on building Fairmont Udaipur as India’s definitive modern palace for celebration, connection, and enchantment. His leadership philosophy is anchored in empathy, precision, and purpose—values that resonate through every aspect of the guest journey.

At Fairmont Udaipur, Vishrut steers operations across four foundational pillars: deeply authentic local cultural integration, an uncompromising service ethic, an empowered and purpose-driven colleague culture, and agile commercial strategy tailored to serve an evolving market. Each of these pillars supports his vision of creating a palace that doesn’t just impress—but moves, uplifts, and lingers in memory.

What defines Vishrut’s approach is a quiet, deliberate elegance. Under his guidance, Fairmont Udaipur Palace is being shaped into an environment where every interaction holds meaning, and every moment—no matter how small—is delivered with care. From curated arrival rituals to intuitive in-room personalization, he is committed to building an experience that is detail-rich, emotionally resonant, and seamlessly orchestrated. He leads a handpicked team of hospitality experts—each selected for their finesse, creativity, and sensitivity to celebration, tradition, and guest expectations.

In a luxury market increasingly defined by personalization, authenticity and hospitality with soul, Vishrut positions Fairmont Udaipur Palace as a destination where grandeur meets the discerning eye of modern global travelers. His emphasis on sustainable practices, technology-driven service personalization, and experiential innovation ensures that the guest journey is not only luxurious—but meaningful and memorable.

Whether it’s crafting dramatic  arrivals with Willy Jeeps and rose-petal canopies, offering signature rituals like the 56-dish Royal Thaal, or transforming moments into memories through immersive experiences like bedtime folktales, sound healing, or wild nature trail breakfasts—Vishrut’s vision is to spark wonder. A sense of timeless enchantment that leaves every guest not only satisfied, but spellbound.

As Fairmont Udaipur Palace begins its journey as one of India’s one of India’s most luxurious destinations, Vishrut Gupta stands at the helm with a deep belief in thoughtful

JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI SAHAR APPOINTS NUMRATA RAI KUMAR AS FRONT OFFICE MANAGER

Mumbai, August 2025: Located near the international airport and regarded as the Gateway to Mumbai, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is delighted to announce the appointment of Numrata Rai Kumar as the new Front Office Manager. With a distinguished career in hospitality and a deep-rooted focus on delivering outstanding guest service, Numrata brings a wealth of expertise, dynamic leadership, and fresh perspectives to her new role.

Leveraging her broad expertise in hospitality, Numrata Rai Kumar most recently excelled as Front Office Manager at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, where she raised guest satisfaction and operational standards to new heights. Her extensive career also includes key roles such as Assistant Front Office Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri, and managerial positions at Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, and Westin Hotels & Resorts. Numrata’s commitment to enhancing front office operations has been recognized through accolades like the "Best Employee of the Year" award, highlighting her commitment to outstanding service.

In her new position, Numrata will oversee all aspects of front office operations, focusing on seamless guest arrivals and departures, curating personalized guest experiences, and upholding the hotel’s reputation for luxury and excellence. With her remarkable attention to detail, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar looks forward to achieving new benchmarks in guest service and operational efficiency under her stewardship.

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is pleased to welcome Numrata Rai Kumar and is excited about her contribution in enhancing the hotel’s hospitality experiences and strengthening its reputation as a leading luxury destination in Mumbai.

Ravi Rai Takes Charge as General Manager of The Orchid Hotel Mumbai

Mumbai: A new chapter begins at The Orchid Hotel Mumbai—Asia’s first certified eco-friendly five-star hotel—with the appointment of seasoned hotelier Ravi Rai as General Manager. With over two and a half decades in the hospitality sector, Rai’s arrival signals a fresh wave of energy and strategic direction for the landmark property.

Bringing with him a deep-rooted understanding of hotel operations, guest experience, and sustainable luxury, Rai is no stranger to leading from the front. His appointment comes at a time when The Orchid Mumbai continues to redefine responsible hospitality, blending ecological consciousness with five-star excellence.

In his new role, Rai will oversee all facets of the hotel’s operations, including strategic planning, guest satisfaction, team development, and brand positioning. With sustainability remaining a core focus, his leadership is expected to elevate the property's green ethos while reinforcing its standing as a leading urban ecotel destination.

Most recently, Rai served as Cluster General Manager for the Avadh Utopia Group, where he was responsible for overseeing flagship hotels across Surat, Vapi, and the wellness-focused Ayuska. Prior to that, he held multiple leadership roles with the Accor Group, managing properties like Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, Novotel Vijayawada, and The Bheemili Resort. His journey has also included key assignments with global hospitality giants like Hilton, Taj Hotels (IHCL), and Carlson Rezidor, making him a well-rounded industry veteran.

Known for his operational sharpness and people-centric leadership style, Rai has consistently driven top-line growth and guest satisfaction while launching and scaling marquee properties across geographies. His tenure at Accor, in particular, was marked by the successful management of large-format hotels and resorts, each known for their culinary innovation and expansive banqueting spaces.

“The Orchid Mumbai has long been a pioneer in ecotel hospitality, and it’s a privilege to take on the responsibility of leading such an iconic property,” said Ravi Rai. “My focus will be on building further on its legacy—enhancing guest experiences, strengthening the team, and deepening our commitment to sustainability in every aspect of the hotel’s journey.”

Sanjeev Advani, Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Kamat Hotels India Ltd., commented, “Ravi brings a rare blend of strategic vision and hands-on hotel management experience. His ability to blend operational efficiency with brand storytelling will be invaluable as we position The Orchid Mumbai for its next phase of growth.”

A career that began humbly as a Restaurant Cashier with Taj Hotels, Rai is a living example of steady growth and commitment. Rising through the ranks—from stewarding and F&B to senior leadership—he has built a reputation for mentoring teams, driving innovation, and staying rooted in guest-first values. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and Tulu, he connects effortlessly with guests and teams alike.

With  372 rooms, award-winning F&B outlets, and one of the city’s largest banquet offerings, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai remains a favourite for travelers and corporates seeking sustainable yet luxurious experiences. Under Rai’s stewardship, the hotel is expected to scale new heights while staying true to its eco-conscious DNA.

About The Orchid Hotel Mumbai
Located near the Mumbai domestic airport, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai is a flagship ecotel property under the Kamat Hotels India Ltd. portfolio. Known for its green practices, hospitality excellence, and culinary innovation, the hotel offers a harmonious blend of comfort, luxury, and sustainability.

Fortune Hotels appoints Anurag Bharadwaj as General Manager of Fortune Ranjit Vihar, Amritsar

With over 15 years of industry experience, Anurag brings strategic leadership and operational strength to the role.


Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels Group, announces the appointment of Anurag Bharadwaj as General Manager of Fortune Ranjit Vihar, Amritsar.

An accomplished hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience, Anurag is widely regarded for his strategic vision, operational expertise, and commitment to service excellence. In his new role, he will oversee the hotel’s operations, focusing on delivering exceptional guest experiences, enhancing team performance, and driving the property’s growth and overall business performance.

Prior to joining Fortune Hotels, Anurag has held key managerial positions with leading hotel brands, including Holiday Inn Amritsar, Holiday Inn Chandigarh Panchkula (IHG), and The Fern Hotels and Resorts. His proven track record in managing premium hospitality properties positions him to lead Fortune Ranjit Vihar with innovation and distinction.

Would you like me to add a closing line or call-to-action — such as a welcome message or link to the hotel’s page?

Courtyard by Marriott Shillong Appoints Sumit Mehta as Director of Rooms

Shillong : Courtyard by Marriott Shillong is pleased to announce the appointment of Sumit Mehta as the new Director of Rooms.

With over 15 years of robust experience in Rooms Operations and a long-standing association with Marriott International, Sumit brings a wealth of knowledge, operational excellence, and a deep passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Throughout his illustrious career, he has held leadership positions across several key Marriott properties, including Le Meridien Hyderabad, Sheraton Colombo, Aloft Aerocity New Delhi, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa & Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre. His proven track record of elevating service standards, driving guest satisfaction, and mentoring high-performing teams makes him a valuable addition to the leadership team at Courtyard by Marriott Shillong.

Sumit is well-regarded for his guest-centric approach, operational acumen, and commitment to training and development. His leadership philosophy focuses on fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement—perfectly aligned with the hotel’s vision of redefining hospitality in Shillong.

Tanuj Arora, General Manager – Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome Sumit Mehta to our leadership team. His diverse experience, people-first approach, and deep understanding of Marriott’s brand ethos make him the perfect fit for our hotel. We are confident that his presence will further strengthen our positioning as a preferred hospitality destination in Shillong.”

Please join us in welcoming Sumit Mehta to the Courtyard by Marriott Shillong family and wishing him great success in his new role.

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach Appoints Vinayyak Ravichandra as Revenue Manager

Visakhapatnam, July 2025 – Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, a flagship property under the Accor portfolio, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Vinayyak Ravichandra as its new Revenue Manager.

Bringing over a decade of proven expertise in revenue management across some of the world’s most respected hospitality brands, including Hyatt, Accor, Radisson, Hilton, Marriott, and IHCL, Mr. Ravichandra is poised to play a pivotal role in driving the hotel’s strategic growth in one of India’s most dynamic coastal markets.

Prior to this appointment, he served as Revenue Manager at Hyatt Place Jaipur, where he successfully implemented pricing strategies and forecast models that led to improved RGI and revenue performance. He has also held key positions at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi, and made impactful contributions within Accor’s Revenue & Distribution Support team for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), overseeing inventory control, market analytics, and commercial optimisation for a cluster of hotels.

Commenting on the appointment, Lakshmi Sridhar, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, said, “We are delighted to welcome Vinayyak to our leadership team. His extensive cross-brand experience and strong command of revenue analytics and pricing strategy make him an asset to the hotel. We are confident that his insights and innovative approach will reinforce our market leadership and help unlock new levels of performance in an increasingly competitive landscape” 

Known for his strengths in forecasting, strategic pricing, market intelligence, and RevPAR enhancement, Mr. Ravichandra will now be responsible for leading the property’s revenue strategy, optimising profitability, and driving continued commercial success across all segments.

An alumnus of SRM University (Affiliated with IGNOU) with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Hospitality Administration, Mr. Ravichandra has consistently demonstrated an ability to align revenue tactics with market behaviour, resulting in improved forecasting accuracy and greater guest satisfaction.

The team at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach looks forward to the expertise and leadership he brings as the property sharpens its focus on business intelligence and sustainable revenue growth.

Park Hyatt Hyderabad Appoints Pushp Chauhan as Director of Food & Beverage

Hyderabad, India – Park Hyatt Hyderabad is proud to announce the appointment of Pushp Chauhan as Director of Food & Beverage. Pushp brings more than 11 years of exceptional leadership experience in the luxury hospitality sector, recognized for his commitment to operational excellence, innovative dining concepts, and consistently exceeding guest expectations.

Pushp has previously held key positions at prestigious hotels, most recently serving as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at Grand Hyatt Gurgaon. He has demonstrated expertise in leading pre-opening operations, launching award-winning F&B outlets and banqueting spaces, and orchestrating major events such as celebrity weddings and master chef dinners. His strategic focus on team development and revenue management has delivered top-tier guest satisfaction rankings for Hyatt hotels across India and South West Asia.

As Director of Food & Beverage at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Pushp’s visionary leadership and passion for culinary innovation will elevate the hotel’s acclaimed dining experiences. His approach aligns perfectly with Park Hyatt Hyderabad’s dedication to sophisticated hospitality and personalized service for discerning travelers.

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar appoints Varun Suden as the Director of Operations

Mumbai, July 2025: Located near the international airport and regarded as the Gateway to Mumbai, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Varun Suden as the new Director of Operations. In this strategic leadership role, Mr. Suden will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, driving performance excellence and enhancing guest experiences across every touchpoint. With a proven track record in luxury hospitality and a commitment to operational efficiency, Varun’s appointment reinforces the hotel’s ongoing pursuit of service distinction and innovation in one of Mumbai’s most dynamic hospitality hubs, located near the international airport.

With an illustrious career spanning over 19 years, Varun brings an unrivaled expertise derived from his successful tenures at prestigious hospitality establishments such as Marriott International, Accor Hotels and The Leela.

Varun’s remarkable journey in hospitality began in the Food & Beverage division, where he cultivated a deep understanding of luxury dining and guest experiences. His passion for excellence and keen business acumen saw him rise through the ranks, culminating in his role as Restaurant Manager – Food & Beverage at Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon. Seeking broader horizons, Varun transitioned to the Front Office, where he assumed progressively senior roles, eventually rising to the position of Director of Rooms, each step further refining his leadership and operational expertise.

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Varun will bring his expertise in revenue management, cost management control, reporting and market share growth. As the Director of Operations, he will play a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with Marriott International Brand Standards.

With a strong focus on delivering unparalleled service and improved customer satisfaction, he will also ensure the smooth functioning of all areas under his jurisdiction, establish operational excellence along with the support of his team, improving service standards as well as maintaining excellent relationships with stakeholders. Varun will bring a fresh perspective to the hotel’s operations, further solidifying JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s reputation as a premier luxury destination.

His dedication, commitment to team development and passion for brilliance will be instrumental in tremendously elevating the guest experience at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar.

Chef Deepak Rawat is the New Head chef at Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur

Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Deepak Rawat as the new Head Chef. With an illustrious culinary journey spanning over 15 years across premium hospitality brands in India and Thailand, Chef Rawat brings a wealth of expertise in Indian cuisine, tandoor, and global culinary techniques.

Prior to joining Fairfield Jaipur, Chef Rawat served as Sous Chef with IHCL in Haridwar and held leadership roles at prestigious properties including Fairfield by Marriott Indore, Anantara Chiang Mai, and The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok. He has also been instrumental in opening Indian kitchens internationally, most notably at Aviyana Hotel, Thailand.

His appointment is aligned with the hotel’s vision to deliver elevated dining experiences and enrich the culinary landscape with authentic flavors and contemporary innovation.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Deepak Rawat back to the Marriott family in this pivotal leadership role,” said Rishabh Jain, Hotel Manager, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur. “His experience, creativity and passion for Indian cuisine will undoubtedly create memorable dining moments for our guests.

Alma Resort Cam Ranh Names Yen Dang as Director of Sales and Marketing

CAM RANH, Vietnam 2025– Yen Dang, a seasoned professional with two decades’ experience working for some of the Vietnamese hospitality landscape’s biggest brands has been appointed Alma Resort Cam Ranh’s director of sales and marketing (DOSM).

The Vietnamese national joins the award-winning 30-hectare beachfront resort on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula after working as DOSM at Mercure Danang French Village Bana Hills.

Previously, she was DOSM at nearby Movenpick Resort Cam Ranh, the cluster director of sales at Mercure Vung Tau and ibis Styles Vung Tau, the DOSM during the pre-opening of Melia Cam Ranh Bay, and director of sales (wholesales) at Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

After completing an undergraduate degree in hospitality and tourism management at Ho Chi Minh City’s Van Lang University, she began her hospitality career in 2005 as a sales secretary at MGallery La Veranda Resort and Spa on Phu Quoc Island, steadily rising through the ranks to become the resort’s assistant sales manager. She then moved to Novotel Halong Bay to work as the sales manager before she was promoted to senior sales manager. She assumed the same role with Novotel Saigon Centre and Pullman Danang Beach Resort.

In her new role with Alma, she will oversee sales and marketing strategy and initiatives for the resort’s key segments and will report to Alma’s chief commercial officer Frederic Savoye.

“Yen is a dynamic and creative professional with a wealth of experience with many leading international hotels from Vietnam’s south to north,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler. “Her savvy in leading teams, drawing out each member’s strengths, to not only hit but exceed budget places her in excellent stead with our Alma family.”

Ritesh Raje has been elevated as the Executive Chef at DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji

National, July 2025 : DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji is proud to announce the elevation  of Ritesh Raje as the Executive Chef. With over 2 decades of robust culinary experience across leading hospitality brands, Ritesh’s promotion is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and operational excellence in the world of gastronomy.

A graduate of IHM Mumbai and PIC-3 certified by Dubai Municipality, Chef Raje has held key positions across acclaimed brands including Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and towers, Mumbai, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Chelsea Plaza Hotel, Hyatt Pune, and Sheraton Grand Pune. His expertise spans banquet execution, restaurant operations, strategic menu planning, and team development. Notably, during his tenure at Shangri-La, he played a crucial role in the pre-opening phase, defining the menu and putting together a skilled culinary team.

In his previous positions, he had held the responsibility of leading food production operations with precision, curated diverse menus, and championed timely, high-quality service across all F&B outlets. Widely respected for his collaborative spirit and meticulous attention to detail, he is known to balance creativity with consistency. 

“This elevation is both an honour and a responsibility,” said Chef Ritesh Raje. “My focus will be on deepening our culinary identity infusing local flavours with global techniques while nurturing a kitchen culture that values skill, respect, and innovation. Goa’s bounty is inspiring, and I’m excited to reimagine how we serve it to our guests.”

Welcoming this elevation, Harshad Nalawade, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji, remarked, “Chef Ritesh has consistently displayed a deep understanding of not just culinary execution, but also the emotional intelligence required to lead a diverse team in a high performance environment. He brings a rare combination of operational excellence, strategic thinking, and hands on passion for the art of cooking. His elevation reflects our belief in homegrown leadership and our commitment to delivering thoughtful, innovative and unforgettable culinary experiences to every guest who dines with us.”

This elevation reinforces the hotel’s commitment to recognising in-house talent and delivering elevated gastronomic experiences rooted in quality, consistency, and flair.

About DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji 

DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji is a premier hospitality destination located in the vibrant heart of Goa. Known for its warm hospitality, modern amenities, and personalized service, the hotel offers a blend of comfort and local charm. With a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji Goa is the ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking memorable stays in this coastal paradise.