Vishal Sharma Appointed General Manager at The LaLiT New Delhi

Vishal Sharma brings over 18 years of luxury hospitality experience, having worked with Taj Hotels, The Imperial New Delhi, The Claridges, and Radisson MBD Noida. His association with The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group is longstanding, where he previously served as Head of Sales at The LaLiT New Delhi and later as National Head of Sales for the group.

Before rejoining The LaLiT, Sharma was Director of Sales and Marketing at IHG Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini. He also completed the IHG EMEAA General Manager Development Programme in 2025, strengthening his leadership credentials.

Vivek Shukla, CEO of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, welcomed Sharma back, highlighting his commercial expertise, deep understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape, and strong brand association.

Sharma expressed his commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment while ensuring exceptional guest experiences. He emphasized The LaLiT’s values of diversity, equity, and belonging as central to his leadership approach.With Sharma’s appointment, The LaLiT New Delhi is poised to reinforce its position as a leader in luxury hospitality, combining operational excellence with a guest-first philosophy.

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Strengthens Leadership with Appointment of Rahul Chaudhary as Director of Operations

Kochi, 2026 – Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of seasoned hospitality professional Rahul Chaudhary as its new Director of Operations, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to operational excellence and guest-centric service.

In his new role, Chaudhary will oversee day-to-day hotel operations, collaborating with teams across departments to elevate guest experiences, streamline processes, and support the hotel’s growth across leisure, MICE, and culinary segments. His leadership is expected to further position Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty as a premier luxury urban resort in South India.

With over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Chaudhary brings a wealth of expertise in food and beverage operations, large-scale events, and multi-departmental hotel management. A graduate of the Asia Pacific Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, he began his career in 2007 and has since built a reputation for operational consistency and service innovation.

Chaudhary’s association with Hyatt began in 2010 at Grand Hyatt Goa, followed by key roles at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa and Park Hyatt Hyderabad. His contributions in these assignments included strengthening service delivery and managing high-impact dining and event experiences, which continue to shape his leadership style.

Beyond Hyatt, Chaudhary has held senior operational roles at Conrad Pune and The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake & Lakeside Chalet – Marriott Executive Apartments, where he successfully managed complex business segments while balancing guest expectations, team performance, and commercial outcomes.

Known for his belief that great hospitality is built through empowered teams and thoughtful execution, Chaudhary’s leadership philosophy is deeply influenced by his upbringing in Rajasthan and his family’s roots in education and agriculture. His people-first approach is expected to resonate strongly with Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty’s vision of delivering exceptional guest journeys.

Vinod K P Appointed Director of Security at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of Vinod K P as its new Director of Security, strengthening its leadership team with a seasoned professional who brings over 30 years of cross-sector experience in hospitality, aviation, healthcare, and government security services.

Vinod, a graduate in Chemistry from the University of Calicut, began his career in 1991 and joined the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as a Sub-Inspector in 1992. During his decade-long tenure, he managed diverse responsibilities including administration, intelligence, crime prevention, mechanical transport operations, and senior-level liaison, building a strong foundation in large-scale security management.

His career later expanded into aviation security with SriLankan Airlines at Calicut International Airport, before transitioning into hospitality with Hyatt Hotels Corporation in 2007 as Security Manager at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa. He subsequently served as Head of Safety and Security at Park Hyatt Chennai. Most recently, Vinod was associated with Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd., Chennai, where he led operations safety and security.

A native of Kerala, Vinod’s return to Hyatt marks a significant homecoming. He is recognized for his composed leadership style and people-centric approach, with a clear focus on strengthening safety frameworks, advancing risk management practices, and building high-performing teams. Reflecting on his appointment, Vinod described it as one of the most meaningful phases of his career, guided by his personal philosophy: “Be Good, Do Good.”

This appointment underscores Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty’s commitment to enhancing its security leadership and operational excellence, ensuring a safe and trusted environment for guests and associates alike.

Jumboking Strengthens Leadership with Nishant Dholakia Appointment

India’s leading vegetarian burger chain, Jumboking, has announced the appointment of Nishant Dholakia as its new Chief Business Development Officer (CBDO). This strategic move comes as the brand accelerates its national expansion plans, aiming to deepen its presence across India through a franchise-led growth model.

With over three decades of experience in the hospitality and quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, Dholakia brings a wealth of expertise in scaling restaurant brands and driving operational efficiency. An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Mumbai, he has previously contributed to the growth of renowned brands such as Pizza Hut, Chili’s, and Galaxy Cloud Kitchens.

Commenting on the appointment, Dheeraj Gupta, Founder and MD of Jumboking, highlighted the alignment of vision between the brand and Dholakia:

“When I met Nishant to discuss the future of Jumboking, he said that he had never seen anything like the JK University in the entire QSR market in India. I knew right there that we had a meeting of minds. Nishant is a seasoned professional who brings in a strong focus on operational efficiency and sustainable growth to our aggressive growth plan.”

Dholakia expressed his enthusiasm for joining Jumboking, emphasizing the company’s ambitious expansion strategy:

“Jumboking has been steadily expanding its presence across India. We are ramping up to 15 states via a 100% franchise-led growth strategy, while also deepening penetration in existing markets. This is an exciting opportunity for me to scale up India’s largest vegetarian QSR brand. This Make In India story is close to my heart.”

This appointment marks a pivotal moment for Jumboking as it continues to strengthen its leadership team and reinforce its position as India’s largest vegetarian QSR brand, committed to sustainable growth and nationwide reach.

Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield Appoints Flavius Chettiar as Director of Operations

Bengaluru, March 3, 2026 – Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield has announced the appointment of Flavius Chettiar as its new Director of Operations. A seasoned hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience across leading luxury hotel brands, Chettiar brings a wealth of expertise in food and beverage strategy, large-scale operations management, and team leadership.

Driving Operational Excellence

In his new role, Chettiar will oversee the hotel’s operations, ensuring seamless coordination across departments while strengthening service excellence benchmarks. He will also spearhead strategic growth initiatives aligned with Marriott International’s global standards.

Proven Leadership Across Luxury Brands

Chettiar’s career spans several prestigious properties:

• The Westin Mumbai Garden City – As Director of Food & Beverage, he enhanced guest satisfaction scores, introduced innovative dining concepts, and drove departmental profitability across outlets such as Seasonal Tastes, Prego & Pronto, Eighteen Lounge, and Kangan.

• JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu – Served as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage, managing operations at the flagship 350-room property.

• Oberoi Hotels & Resorts (Trident Bandra Kurla & Oberoi Marrakech) – Progressed through leadership roles including Banquet Manager and F&B Service Manager, and contributed to pre-opening operations in Marrakech by setting up F&B systems and training teams.

An alumnus of the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, Chettiar has consistently demonstrated operational acumen and commercial focus. His achievements include:

• High mystery audit scores

• Award-winning dining concepts

• Building and mentoring high-performance teams

Leadership Vision

“I am delighted to take on the role of Director of Operations at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield,” said Chettiar. “The property has built a strong reputation for service excellence and contemporary hospitality. I look forward to enhancing operational efficiency, elevating guest experiences, and driving sustained growth in alignment with Marriott’s global standards.”

Welcoming the Appointment

Vivek Sharma, General Manager of Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield, expressed enthusiasm about the new leadership:
“We are pleased to welcome Flavius to our team. His extensive experience across luxury hospitality brands and strong operational expertise make him a valuable addition. We are confident that under his leadership, the hotel will continue to strengthen its market positioning and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.”

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Chef Shubham Dhar as Sous Chef at UNO Izakaya

Bengaluru, March 2026 – JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Shubham Dhar as Sous Chef at UNO Izakaya, the hotel’s acclaimed Japanese Bar and Lounge.

With over seven years of experience in luxury and fine-dining kitchens across India, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, Chef Dhar brings refined technical expertise in Japanese cuisine, complemented by international exposure and operational precision. His professional journey spans premium hospitality brands and globally recognized dining concepts, with mastery in sushi, sashimi, and omakase-style cuisine.

Chef Dhar most recently served as Head Sushi Chef, contributing to notable international pre-openings including NOZOMI in Riyadh and La Mer at Sindalah Island, NEOM, Saudi Arabia. In India, he has been part of esteemed establishments such as The Oberoi, Bengaluru; ITC Gardenia; and The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Gaurav Sinha, Hotel Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, said:
“Chef Shubham Dhar brings exceptional technical skill and international experience to UNO Izakaya. His expertise will play a vital role in ensuring the restaurant continues to offer high-quality, authentic Japanese cuisine, reinforcing its reputation as one of Bengaluru’s premier dining destinations.”

As Sous Chef, Chef Dhar will focus on menu execution, culinary consistency, and supporting the kitchen team in delivering an exceptional dining experience at UNO Izakaya.

Jaipur National University (JNU) proudly announces the appointment of Prof. Dr. Sandip S. Tapkir as the new Director

Jaipur, Rajasthan – Jaipur National University (JNU) proudly announces the appointment of Prof. Dr. Sandip S. Tapkir as the new Director and Professor of the School of Hotel Management & Catering Technology (SHMCT).

With more than 25 years of academic and industry experience in hospitality education, Dr. Tapkir brings a wealth of expertise and a proven record of inspiring students and faculty across India’s leading universities and institutes. His career includes leadership roles with renowned institutions such as the Dr. D.Y. Patil Group, MGM University, Ajeenkya D.Y. Patil University, and most recently, IHM Solapur under the Maharashtra Tourism Department.

An accomplished author and researcher, Dr. Tapkir has published books, 16 research papers, and numerous articles in reputed journals and magazines. He is widely recognized as a mentor, guide, and speaker in hospitality and sustainability, strongly advocating for the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 17) into hospitality education.

Under his leadership, SHMCT achieved a remarkable milestone on 27 February 2026, officially entering the India Book of Records for creating the Largest Millet-Based Pizza (119 inches). This record-breaking feat was made possible through the collaborative efforts of more than 500 participants, including students and faculty.

The university community extends its best wishes to Dr. Tapkir as he embarks on this new journey, confident that his vision and leadership will elevate SHMCT to greater heights.

The Leela Mumbai appoints Ms. Ridhima Barha as EAM – Rooms

The Leela Mumbai announced the appointment of Ms. Ridhima Barha as its EAM - Rooms. 

With over 16 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Ridhima brings deep expertise across rooms and front office operations, team leadership, and service excellence. Known for her structured approach and people-centric leadership style, she has consistently contributed to enhancing guest satisfaction, business acumen and operational efficiencies across leading hospitality brands. 

Prior to joining The Leela Mumbai, Ms. Barha was associated with Marriott International, where she most recently served as Room Division Manager, following a successful tenure as Front Office Manager. Her progression within the organization reflects her strong operational acumen and ability to lead diverse teams in dynamic, high-volume hotel environments. 

Ms. Barha has held key positions with esteemed hospitality brands including Marriott International Hotels, The Leela Mumbai, Trident Hotels and Shangri-la Hotels with unique blend of extensive experience with high end villa operations at Lohono Stays (by Isprava), contributing to enhancing guest satisfaction and portfolio expansion. Her professional journey from front office roles to senior leadership positions reflects her versatility, resilience, and commitment to service excellence. 

Commenting on her appointment, Ms. Barha shared, “I am truly delighted to be stepping into this new chapter at The Leela Mumbai, a place that holds a very special place in my professional journey. Returning in a leadership capacity feels both humbling and inspiring. I look forward to collaborating with our talented teams to elevate the Rooms Division experience, blending personalized, intuitive service with strategic revenue excellence. Together, we will continue to strengthen our commitment to delivering refined Indian luxury while setting new benchmarks in operational distinction and guest satisfaction.” 

As part of The Leela Mumbai’s leadership team, Ms. Ridhima Barha’s extensive experience, operational insight, and passion for hospitality are poised to further strengthen the hotel’s legacy of refined luxury and exceptional guest experiences.

Fortune Hotels appoints Amruta Deshpande as Cluster Manager – Revenue at Corporate Headquarters

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels’ Group, has announced the appointment of Amruta Deshpande as Cluster Manager – Revenue at its corporate headquarters.

An accomplished hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience, Amruta is known for her strong analytical acumen, strategic revenue management expertise, and results-driven approach. In her new role, she will oversee cluster revenue performance, with a focused mandate to optimise pricing strategies, maximise profitability, and strengthen overall revenue outcomes across the portfolio.

Prior to joining Fortune Park Hotels Ltd., Amruta held key leadership roles with leading hospitality brands, including IHG Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, and Eros Hotels. Most recently, she served as Portfolio Revenue Manager, leading revenue management for the Holiday Inn Express portfolio for IHG Hotels in India and playing an important role in strengthening commercial performance.

With her extensive industry experience and proven track record in revenue strategy, Amruta is well-positioned to contribute significantly to Fortune Hotels continued growth and market leadership.

Sayaji Hotel Wakad Welcomes Rakesh Rane as Revenue Manager, Strengthening Its Growth Strategy

Marking a strategic step towards accelerated growth and enhanced profitability, Sayaji Hotel Wakad, Pune proudly announces the appointment of Rakesh Rane as its new Revenue Manager.

A seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of extensive experience in revenue optimization, reservations, and front office operations, Rakesh brings with him a sharp commercial acumen and a proven record of delivering strong top-line and bottom-line results. His career spans prestigious hospitality brands including Radisson Blu Pune Hinjewadi, Crowne Plaza Pune City Center, The Orchid Hotel Pune, Radisson SPA and Resort Lonavala, and Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport.

Known for his data-driven approach and strategic foresight, Rakesh has consistently led revenue transformation initiatives from dynamic pricing strategies and market segmentation to advanced forecasting and demand analysis. His expertise in hotel management systems such as Opera, Fidelio, Holidex, SAP, INNKEYS, Synxis, WINHMS, RevTOOLS, and Delphi has enabled him to optimize distribution channels and drive measurable performance improvements across properties.

At Sayaji Hotel Wakad, he will spearhead revenue strategy, pricing optimization, and inventory management while working closely with sales and operations teams to unlock new growth opportunities. His focus will be on strengthening market positioning, maximizing RevPAR, and ensuring sustainable profitability in Pune’s competitive hospitality landscape.

Recognized for his leadership capabilities, operational discipline, and ability to build high-performing teams, Rakesh has also played key roles in pre-opening projects, system integrations, and SOP implementations  consistently aligning revenue strategy with guest satisfaction and brand excellence.

Speaking on his appointment, Rakesh Rane shared,
"I am excited to join Sayaji Hotel Wakad at a time of strong growth potential. I look forward to implementing innovative revenue strategies that enhance financial performance while delivering exceptional guest experiences."

With this appointment, Sayaji Hotel Wakad reaffirms its commitment to strategic growth, operational excellence, and delivering elevated hospitality experiences.

Tanvi Palshikar Joins Jw Marriott GOA From Designer to Dessert Visionary

Goa, March 2026: JW Marriott Goa announces the arrival of Pastry Chef Tanvi Palshikar, whose remarkable journey from interior designer to pastry chef stands as a powerful testament to reinvention and resilience. Leaving the world of spatial design for the precision of pastry is no easy shift, yet she excelled, bringing her refined sense of proportion, detail and visual harmony into her craft. Over the past decade, she has transformed a personal passion into a thriving culinary career defined by creativity, discipline and design-led flavor, making her a natural fit for the award-winning JW Marriott Goa team.

Tanvi began her career as a Cake Artist, where she quickly gained popularity for turning sketches and ideas into edible art. Her move into the F&B industry took shape at JW Marriott Pune, where she rose from Chef de Partie to Junior Sous Chef and eventually Pastry Sous Chef. There, she led operations across multiple outlets, from pastry shops and all-day dining brunches to large-format banquets of over 2000 guests every day. Her leadership extended to successfully managing audits, crafting delightful menus, positive guest engagement, engaging and mentoring the right talent and overseeing kitchen operations. Known for her consistency and refined flavor palette, she became a key pillar within the pastry team.

Soon after, Tanvi took on a wider leadership role with a Pune-based hospitality group, managing pastry operations for two restaurants and a B2B vertical. She upskilled on dessert R&D, training, plating and presentation while ensuring consistency in quality and cost-efficiency. 

Tanvi’s craft has received significant attention in national and regional media. Her fully edible ‘Paithani Saree’ cake, complete with intricate jewelry, won acclaim across leading regional publications in the city of Pune. Her artistry has also been featured by BBC Marathi and History TV18, where her design-driven approach to pastry has won hearts. In Marriott International, Tanvi has been recognized as a Leading Lady Chef, she has also completed a specialized Bakery & Pastry course through the Lavonne × Marriott collaboration.

At JW Marriott Goa, Tanvi leads a dynamic pastry team, bringing her signature blend of creativity, precision and warmth to the resort’s culinary program. Guests can look forward to elevated dessert experiences that combine refined flavors with elegant presentation, along with thoughtfully curated menus, personalized celebration cakes and a renewed dessert philosophy rooted in craftsmanship. Tanvi’s arrival reinforces the property’s commitment to excellence and innovation, adding a fresh chapter to its award-winning culinary offerings.

Her key skills include menu planning, flavor pairing, garnishing and custom confectionery design, with expertise spanning cakes, pastries, entremets, petite gâteaux, chocolate work and bespoke celebration cakes. Beyond the kitchen, she finds inspiration through travel with her husband and son, sketching, craft and painting, all of which influence her artistic sense of color, texture and visual storytelling.

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune appoints Sachin Patil as Director of Engineering

Pune, February 2026 – The Ritz-Carlton, Pune is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Sachin Patil as Director of Engineering, bringing with him over two decades of extensive expertise in luxury hotel engineering operations, preventive maintenance, and facilities management.

In his new role, Mr. Patil will oversee the hotel’s complete engineering ecosystem, ensuring uncompromising standards of safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability. He will lead the engineering team, strengthen preventive maintenance frameworks, and champion innovative infrastructure initiatives designed to further elevate the guest experience.

Sachin joins The Ritz-Carlton, Pune following his tenure as Chief Engineer at Courtyard by Marriott, Pune Hinjewadi, where successfully led several high-impact projects, including the installation of an EV charging station and bottling plant, the deployment of high-efficiency chillers and diesel generators, and the conversion of the hotel’s lighting systems to 100% LED with dimmer controls. His strategic interventions in water treatment systems, kitchen upgrades, and infrastructure enhancements have significantly improved operational efficiency while reducing the property’s carbon footprint. 

Over the course of his distinguished career across leading international hotel brands, Sachin has demonstrated excellence in pre-opening projects, large-scale engineering initiatives, and operational optimization across both domestic and international markets. His core strengths span BMS systems, HVAC, electrical and mechanical engineering, plumbing, and comprehensive facilities oversight. He is widely recognized for his disciplined approach to preventive maintenance, cost optimization, vendor management, and sustainability-driven practices.

His appointment reinforces The Ritz-Carlton, Pune’s continued focus on operational excellence, responsible luxury, and delivering a seamless guest experience supported by world-class infrastructure and engineering leadership.

Courtyard by Marriott Shillong Appoints Sharoni Sharma as General Manager

Shillong, 24 February 2026: 

Courtyard by Marriott Shillong is pleased to announce the appointment of Sharoni Sharma as its  new General Manager, effective 23rd February 2026. 

With over 15 years of diverse experience across luxury and upscale hospitality brands in India,  Sharoni brings a strong blend of operational excellence, strategic leadership, and people-first  management to the only internationally branded hotel in Meghalaya’s capital. 

Her career includes leadership roles with esteemed hospitality brands such as The Leela Palace  Jaipur, The Roseate, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, and The Westin Goa. Throughout her journey,  Sharoni has been recognized for driving operational efficiencies, elevating guest satisfaction  benchmarks, and building high-performing teams. 

In her new role at Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, Sharoni will focus on strengthening the hotel’s  positioning as a preferred destination for business, leisure, and social events in Northeast India.  Her vision centers around three key pillars: 

1. Guest-Centric Innovation: Enhancing personalized experiences that reflect the warmth and  culture of Meghalaya. 

2. Operational Excellence: Driving performance across rooms, F&B, and events with strong  revenue focus and brand compliance. 

3. People & Culture: Building an empowered associate environment rooted in engagement,  growth, and service passion. 

Sharoni’s diverse operational experience and people-centric leadership approach are expected  to further strengthen the hotel’s market positioning, enhance guest experiences, and drive  sustainable growth across all key segments. 

Speaking on her appointment, Sharoni Sharma said: 

"Shillong is a destination with incredible character, warmth, and soul. To lead Courtyard by  Marriott Shillong is not just a professional opportunity for me, but a deeply meaningful one.  This hotel represents pride for the region, and I am excited to work alongside our passionate  team to create experiences that feel personal, thoughtful, and truly memorable for every  guest who walks through our doors."

Board of Directors Appoints Keshav Baljee as Executive Director, Royal Orchid Hotels

February 2026, National, India:

The Board of Directors of Royal Orchid Hotels has appointed Keshav Baljee as Executive Director, marking a decisive step in the company’s next phase of structured growth and brand expansion.

Keshav has been on the Board since 2019, playing a pivotal role in shaping strategic initiatives, strengthening the asset light model and sharpening the company’s brand architecture across markets. His elevation to Executive Director aligns responsibility with the impact he has already been driving.

Keshav is the Founder of Kensington Villas, a curated luxury villa development company, with successful projects in Alibaug. He earlier founded and led Spree Hotels – a budget hotel management company, building it into a pan India hotel management company under the “Zip by Spree” and “Spree” brands. Spree was also a leader in facilities management, and club house management. He sold Spree to Ease My Trip, a listed travel conglomerate. 

In his previous tenure as President of Royal Orchid Hotels from 2007 to 2011, Royal Orchid’s portfolio expanded from four to 24 hotels in under five years, with over 1.2 million square feet of hospitality assets jointly developed. He led investor relations, private equity and debt engagements, and institutionalized governance and corporate processes during a high growth phase. He was responsible for spearheading the asset light strategy, and signed the first few management contracts in our company, a division which now has over 100 + operational third-party management contracts. 

As Executive Director, Keshav will spearhead the overall growth strategy of the group. 

An alumnus of the Indian School of Business and the Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology at the University of Pennsylvania, Keshav began his career in investment banking with Lehman Brothers and UBS, specializing in M&A before returning to India to build and scale hospitality and real estate platforms.

The Board expressed confidence that his entrepreneurial approach, financial discipline and operational clarity will position Royal Orchid Hotels strongly for its next chapter of growth.

DANIEL WORSLEY APPOINTED VICE PRESIDENT, HOTEL OPERATIONS AT ATLANTIS THE ROYAL

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Atlantis The Royal is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Worsley as Vice President, Hotel Operations. With more than 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Daniel brings a dynamic, people-focused leadership style and a proven track record of operational excellence to one of the world’s most iconic ultra-luxury destinations.

Originally from Australia and a graduate of the International College of Management, Sydney, he began his hospitality journey in hands-on operational roles across front office, concierge, housekeeping, and night management. This comprehensive foundation shaped his leadership philosophy, centred on curiosity, accountability, and human connection.

His early career progressed within one of Australia’s most complex integrated resorts, where he rapidly rose through senior operational leadership positions. At just 20 years old, he was appointed Night Manager, overseeing overnight hotel operations in close collaboration with security and casino teams. He later advanced to Executive Assistant Manager, playing a pivotal role in securing a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating within his first year, making the property one of the first in Australia to achieve such a distinguished recognition.

In 2019, Daniel joined Atlantis, The Palm, where he delivered immediate and measurable impact. Over seven consecutive years, he led record-breaking front office upselling results, consistently outperforming market benchmarks and increasing revenue, while establishing new operational standards and elevating service culture across the resort.

In recognition of his sustained performance and leadership impact, Daniel was promoted to Vice President, Hotel Operations at Atlantis The Royal. In his current role, he oversees the Rooms Division with a strong emphasis on personalisation, operational excellence, and service culture transformation. His leadership approach is defined by accessibility, transparency, and radical honesty, fostering an environment where teams are empowered to challenge convention, embrace innovation, and deliver extraordinary guest experiences.

Daniel champions the belief that true luxury lies in emotional intelligence, authenticity, and the consistent ability to find meaningful ways to say “yes.” Deeply committed to mentorship and professional development, he is passionate about cultivating resilient, high-performing teams and nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders. His leadership blends strategic discipline with authenticity, humour, and humanity, inspiring both operational excellence and genuine connection throughout the guest journey.

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Strengthens Executive Leadership With Strategic Vice President Appointments

February 2026, National, India: Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), one of India’s leading hospitality groups, has announced two strategic leadership appointments as part of its continued focus on operational excellence, infrastructure strength, and people-led growth.

The company has appointed Mr. Jayesh Wadher as Vice President - Human Resources. With over 23 years of extensive experience in human resource leadership across reputed hospitality brands including Accor, Radisson, and most recently Pride Hotels Group, Mr. Wadher brings deep expertise in talent management, organizational culture building, and workforce development.

In his new role at ROHL, Mr. Wadher will lead the Human Resources function across the group’s growing portfolio. He will focus on strengthening organizational capability, fostering a high-performance culture, and aligning talent strategy with the company’s long-term expansion roadmap.

ROHL has also appointed Mr. Charanjit Singh as Vice President - Engineering. With over 25 years of distinguished experience across leading hospitality brands such as ITC Hotels, The Leela Hotels, and IHG, Mr. Singh brings strong technical acumen and operational leadership to the role.

He has spearheaded corporate engineering operations, pre-opening assessments, and National Building Code 2016 compliance initiatives, with a proven track record of achieving zero-incident milestones. At ROHL, Mr. Singh will lead the company’s engineering and infrastructure strategy, with a focus on sustainable practices, energy-efficient technologies, and operational reliability across the expanding portfolio.

"Mr. Jayesh Wadher and Mr. Charanjit Singh bring strong domain expertise and leadership depth that align closely with our vision," said Chander K. Baljee, Chairman and Managing Director. "These appointments play a critical role in strengthening our workforce and infrastructure as we accelerate our expansion across India."

Royal Orchid and Regenta Hotels warmly welcome both leaders. We look forward to their contributions in delivering world-class hospitality and driving sustained organizational growth.

Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre Appoints Rajinikanth Ramadass as Director of Sales & Marketing

The Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre (NJCC) and Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (JECC) have announced the appointment of Rajinikanth Ramadass as their new Director of Sales & Marketing. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing, Ramadass brings a wealth of expertise in revenue growth, market repositioning, and strategic leadership.

Professional Background

• Recent Role: Director of Sales & Marketing at Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa, where he repositioned the property in the luxury segment and achieved a 17% revenue increase.

• Past Experience: Leadership positions at Grand Hyatt Goa, Park Hyatt Chennai, and The Westin Chennai Velachery.

• Key Achievements: Improved ADR (Average Daily Rate), RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room), and strengthened corporate and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) segments.

Expertise and Strengths

• Strategic mindset and analytical expertise.

• Strong relationship-building skills across corporate and leisure markets.

• Proven success in revenue management, digital marketing initiatives, and large-scale banqueting sales.

• Ability to align commercial strategy with operational excellence.

Role at Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre & JECC

In his new position, Ramadass will:

• Lead overall sales, marketing, and revenue strategy.

• Strengthen NJCC and JECC’s positioning as premier destinations for MICE, exhibitions, weddings, and large-scale events in Rajasthan.

• Drive strategic growth and enhance brand visibility in both domestic and international markets.

Leadership Perspectives

• Rajinikanth Ramadass: “I am truly honored to join Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre and JECC at such an exciting phase of growth. This iconic destination has immense potential in the MICE and social events segment, and I look forward to driving strategic growth and delivering exceptional value to our guests and partners.”

• Manuj Ralhan, General Manager: “We are delighted to welcome Rajinikanth to our leadership team. His strong commercial acumen, proven track record of driving revenue performance, and ability to build high-impact teams make him the perfect fit for our integrated hotel and convention ecosystem.”

JW Marriott Maldives Welcomes New Culinary Leaders

The JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort has announced two significant appointments that will shape the future of its dining experiences: Arup Chakraborty as Director of Food & Beverage and Thierry Vergnault as Executive Chef. These hires mark a new chapter in the resort’s culinary journey, blending international expertise with a strong focus on local Maldivian flavors.

Arup Chakraborty – Director of Food & Beverage

• Background: Over 16 years of global hospitality experience, beginning in London with Michelin-starred exposure at Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay.

• Career Highlights: Leadership roles at Hilton London Paddington, The Leela Palace Chennai, Constance Lemuria Resort Seychelles, Sandals Resorts Caribbean, and several Maldives properties including Pullman Maldives Maamutaa and Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa.

• Vision: Chakraborty aims to build on JW Marriott’s culinary foundation, enhancing guest satisfaction through innovative dining experiences.

Thierry Vergnault – Executive Chef

• Background: Originally from France, Chef Thierry began his career at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, refining classical French techniques.

• Global Journey: His culinary path spans North America, the Middle East, Russia, the Caribbean, and the Maldives, shaping a philosophy rooted in culture, travel, and sustainability.

• Vision: At JW Marriott Maldives, he will highlight local Maldivian ingredients while infusing global influences, creating refined and meaningful dining experiences.

Culinary Vision for the Resort

Together, Chakraborty and Vergnault will oversee the resort’s seven signature restaurants and bars, including:

• Athiri: South American charcoal grills.

• Nikkei: Japanese–Peruvian fusion.

• Pure: JW Garden-to-Table philosophy.

Their shared focus will be on culinary creativity, operational excellence, and mindful luxury, aligning with JW Marriott’s ethos of delivering elevated, guest-centered experiences.

Francesco Giovannelli Joins As Monastero Manager At Borgo Monchiero Heritage By Atmosphere

Bringing its distinctive hospitality approach to Europe, Atmosphere Core appoints seasoned Italian hotelier Francesco Giovannelli to lead its first heritage property in Italy.

Piedmont, Italy, February 2026 – Set in the UNESCO-listed Langhe hills of Piedmont, BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE by Atmosphere, part of the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand, welcomes Mr Francesco Giovannelli as Monastero Manager. The appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Atmosphere Core, the international hospitality company behind the brand, as it enters the European heritage hospitality landscape.

Commenting on his appointment, Francesco Giovannelli, Monastero Manager, said “Borgo Monchiero is a special heritage experience, and I am honoured to lead this exceptional project for Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts. By working closely with teams on the ground, my priority is to translate heritage into operational excellence and results that guests can feel at every touchpoint.”

Francesco Giovannelli brings over 15 years of leadership in hospitality, with hands-on operational experience across Italy, including Piedmont, and Tuscany. Working closely with on-property teams, he has led departments across operations, revenue coordination and service delivery. His experience reflects a strong, hands-on understanding of Italy’s regional cultures, guest expectations and service traditions. He has also been recognised by Leading Hotels of the World for service excellence and later honoured with the Hospitality Award 2025.

Mr. Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer, Atmosphere Core, added, “Francesco’s appointment reflects our focus on appointing leaders who combine strong commercial and operational acumen with a deep respect for place and people. His experience and sensibility are ideally suited to BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE by Atmosphere, where history and modern hospitality come together, and we are confident his leadership will shape a distinctive and memorable guest experience.”

BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE by Atmosphere is a beautifully restored 18th-century monastery built in 1773. The luxury retreat blends sacred frescoes, Romanesque architecture and the timeless art, culture and cuisine of northern Italy. Located in a region celebrated for its Barolo and Barbera wines, the intimate three-storey hillside retreat features 19 indulgent rooms reimagined from former monastic cells, a private chapel for weddings and intimate ceremonies, a restaurant showcasing local cuisine, an elegant lounge bar, a panoramic swimming pool, and a wellness area offering a sauna, infrared therapies and a private jacuzzi set within a centuries-old water reservoir.

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Chef Mohammad Amir Qureshi as Sous Chef, Spice Terrace

Bengaluru, February 2026:  JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru welcomes Chef Mohammad Amir Qureshi to Spice Terrace as Sous Chef, where he will bring his deep expertise in Indian cuisine to the heart of the restaurant’s culinary experience. Known for his mastery of Indian curries and tandoor specialties, Chef Amir focuses on celebrating traditional recipes and regional techniques, crafting dishes that reflect the richness and diversity of India’s culinary heritage.

With over 14 years of experience in luxury hotels and specialty restaurants across India and the Middle East, Chef Amir has developed a profound understanding of authentic Indian flavors. He has served as Sous Chef at Marriott Navi Mumbai, contributing to pre-opening kitchen operations and menu development, and as Junior Sous Chef at Indian Zone Restaurant in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, where he honed his skills in high-volume kitchens while preserving the integrity of each dish. 

Gaurav Sinha, Hotel Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, added, “Chef Amir’s deep knowledge of Indian cuisine and commitment to authenticity make him a perfect fit for Spice Terrace. His expertise ensures that the restaurant continues to offer dishes that celebrate India’s culinary heritage with precision, depth, and flavor.”

As Sous Chef, Chef Amir will focus on reviving traditional recipes, refining regional techniques, and crafting dishes that showcase the authenticity, depth, and cultural richness of Indian cuisine at Spice Terrace.