Victor Clavell appointed as chief operating officer of Aman Group

He will oversee global operations of the luxury hospitality and lifestyle group

Victor Clavell has been named as chief operating officer of luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand Aman Group.

Known for its collection of ultra-luxury hotels, resorts and branded residences, the group has properties around the globe – including an upcoming luxury hotel and –private residence collection in Dubai as well as the anticipated Janu Dubai.

As the new COO, Clavell is based at Aman’s Swiss corporate office and reports directly to chairman and CEO, Vlad Doronin. He will oversee global operations to ensure the highest standards of guest experience, consistency, and financial performance across all brands.

Clavell brings more than three decades of senior operational, brand and development experience to the role, from positions across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. He has held roles in luxury hospitality brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, W Hotels, Rosewood and Urban Resort Concepts. 

Clavell joins from Urban Resort Concepts in Hong Kong, where he was chief executive officer, leading the repositioning and global expansion of The PuLi Group across hospitality, residences and retail. Prior to this, he was senior vice president and managing director, EMEAC at Rosewood Hotel Group.

“Aman has set the benchmark for luxury hospitality for more than three decades and I am delighted to join the company as it continues to evolve,” said Clavell. “As Aman Group grows across new brands and business verticals, my focus will be on ensuring operational excellence while supporting the thoughtful, strategic development that builds on the brand’s remarkable legacy. I look forward to working closely with the team to strengthen the foundations of the group as we enter this next phase.”

Chairman and CEO of Aman Group, Vlad Doronin added, “Victor’s global expertise, operational discipline and deep understanding of luxury hospitality make him an exceptional addition to Aman Group’s leadership team. His proven ability to elevate brand performance, lead complex multimarket portfolios, and deliver transformative results will be invaluable as we continue to evolve Aman globally.”

Tamer Faiad joins Kerten Hospitality as cluster director of finance

Tamer Faiad's appointment as cluster director of finance at Kerten Hospitality highlights his 15 years of expertise in hotel finance and operations, crucial for the firm’s strategic growth in Saudi Arabia

Tamer Faiad joins Kerten Hospitality as cluster director of finance, bringing 15 years of progressive experience in hospitality finance, financial leadership and hotel operations across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Throughout his career, Faiad has held senior finance leadership roles with internationally recognised hospitality brands and major giga-projects in KSA.

Faiad’s expertise spans hotel operations, pre-openings, financial planning and analysis, governance, internal controls, compliance, business partnering, and finance transformation. Most recently, he served as cluster finance operations manager at Hilton NEOM Community.

During his time with Hilton, Faiad successfully led multiple hotel pre-openings, international task force assignments and finance transformation initiatives. His contributions were recognised with the Finance Leader of the Year award, reflecting his commitment to operational excellence, leadership and delivering commercial value through finance.

Prior to Hilton, Faiad held corporate finance leadership roles with Tabuk Investment & Tourism Co., supporting hospitality and facilities management projects for the Royal Commission for AlUla and NEOM.

In his new role as cluster director of finance at Kerten Hospitality, Faiad will oversee the financial strategy and performance of Cloud7 Residence AlUla and Dar Tantora The House Hotel.

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri appoints Deepak Chaudhary as Director of Food & Beverage

With nearly 14 years of hospitality experience, Chaudhary will lead the hotel's food and beverage operations and dining experiences.

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri announces the appointment of Deepak Chaudhary as Director of Food & Beverage, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to enhancing its dining experiences and strengthening its leadership team.

Professional background

Having built a significant part of his career with Hyatt, Deepak brings nearly 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with extensive expertise across food and beverage operations, restaurant management, and service excellence. Most recently, he served as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at Grand Hyatt Gurgaon, where he led large-scale operations, delivered marquee events, and contributed to driving operational excellence.

Industry experience

His professional journey includes leadership roles at Hyatt Regency New Delhi and Roseate House New Delhi, alongside experience in the beverage industry through key account management positions. A WSET Level 2 certified wine professional and certified departmental trainer, Deepak is known for his focus on service excellence, building high-performing teams, and creating memorable guest experiences.

New role

In his new role, Deepak will lead the hotel’s food and beverage operations, with a focus on operational excellence, innovative dining concepts, and elevating guest experiences across its restaurants and bars.

Director’s perspective

Commenting on his appointment, Deepak Chaudhary said, “The most memorable moments in hospitality often happen around a dining table. Whether it is a quick coffee before a meeting, a celebratory dinner, or an evening spent with friends, food has a unique way of bringing people together. I am excited to lead the food and beverage team at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri as we continue to create experiences that are thoughtful, distinctive, and rooted in genuine hospitality.”

Marriott International promotes Gagandeep Singh Hanjra as Senior Director of Revenue Strategy – West India

Based in Mumbai, Hanjra will oversee revenue strategy across Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and the SAMHI portfolio.

Marriott International has announced the appointment of Gagandeep Singh Hanjra as Senior Director of Revenue Strategy – West India, effective August 1, 2026. He will be based in Mumbai.

Professional background

Gagandeep holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Delhi University, a Post Graduate Program in Business Management from IILM and has completed the Advanced Revenue Management Program from the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business.

Industry experience

He began his revenue management journey with The Leela Hotels in 2009 and has since built extensive commercial experience across leading hospitality brands including Accor, IHCL, ITC Hotels and Marriott International. His expertise spans revenue strategy, commercial leadership, pricing and portfolio optimisation, consistently delivering strong business results across diverse hotel portfolios.

Journey with Marriott International

Since joining Marriott International as Market Director of Revenue Strategy, Gagandeep has successfully led revenue strategy for the Navi Mumbai and Mumbai market portfolios. He has built strong partnerships with hotel leadership teams while driving topline performance, strengthening commercial discipline and developing future revenue leaders.

Expanded responsibilities

In his new role, Gagandeep will lead Revenue Strategy across Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and the SAMHI portfolio, partnering closely with hotels to drive performance, strengthen commercial execution and build a high-performing revenue organisation. His collaborative leadership style, analytical mindset, consistency and passion for developing people position him well for this expanded responsibility.

Mr Vikas Pansare (IAS) Assumes Charge as Director, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra

Mumbai, , 2026: The Government of Maharashtra has announced an administrative transition as part of a recent bureaucratic reshuffle and has appointed Mr Vikas Pansare, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, as the new Director of the Directorate of Tourism. Mr Vikas Pansare (IAS) has assumed charge of his position at the Directorate of Tourism, Mumbai, on Thursday, July 30, 2026.

Prior to this appointment, he served as Managing Director of the Maharashtra Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (MSSIDC), where he effectively discharged his responsibilities. Mr Vikas Pansare has successfully handled administrative responsibilities across various departments of the State Government.

Mr Vikas Pansare will oversee the implementation of the Directorate of Tourism's policies, the promotion and publicity of tourist destinations, and efforts to give the state a renewed identity as an outstanding tourism destination on the world map. His career experience is expected to help accelerate the state's sustainable tourism development.

Mr Mangesh Joshi (IAS) previously served as Director of the Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra. During his tenure, Mr Mangesh Joshi undertook important work to strengthen the tourism sector in Maharashtra, with particular emphasis on the development of infrastructure, the publicity of tourist destinations across the state, and expanding private sector participation in the tourism sector. As a result, the state's tourism has gained wide recognition, both nationally and globally.

The Directorate of Tourism placed on record its appreciation for Mr Mangesh Joshi’s notable contribution during his tenure and extended a warm welcome to Mr Vikas Pansare. It was expressed that, under Mr Vikas Pansare’s leadership, tourism in the state will scale new heights.

Peerless Hotels Ltd Elevates Amitabh Sharma as the Senior Vice President Operations.

Amitabh Sharma had been elevated to the role of Senior Vice President Operations of the group of hotels from his previous role of General Manager Peerless Hotel Kolkata.

Within a small span of 1.5 years from his joining Amitabh has elevated the business scenario and the guest experiences of the flagship hotel Peerless Hotel Kolkata.  Owing to creation of success story at Kolkata he has been entrusted with the responsibility to head the operations of the Peerless Hotel & Resorts comprising of 3 Business Hotels at Kolkata, Durgapur, Hyderabad & resort at Portblair.

His aggressive sales strategies and core ideology of guest experience’s helped him manage the operations in the earlier role earning accolades one after another. In his new role as SVP Ops he is expected to continue the ongoing transformational journey on which the group has pivoted in 2022 and then to further consolidate business, market share and replicate the success across the group.

“Our hotel group has transformed into a distinguished iconic hospitality address, and, post the upgradation we have been able to to put it on the national map more prominently. I am excited to have Amitabh move in the Corporate leadership team, bringing with him an experience of bringing internal guest satisfaction & drive for revenue generation as priority. It is our vision to enhance the peerless values with our people first & the elevation of his one step forward towards the same,” says Debasree Roy, Managing Director, Peerless Hotels Ltd.

“The iconic hospitality group Peerless Hotels from Kolkata currently owns and operates 4 hotels & resorts across 2 states in West Bengal & in Hyderabad Telangana as well as the union territory of Andaman & Nicobar.

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Welcomes Chef Kalpesh Kature As Executive Chef

Bengaluru, July 2026: Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Kalpesh Kature as the Executive Chef. With over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Chef Kalpesh brings extensive expertise in culinary operations, menu innovation, banquet planning, food cost optimisation and team leadership.

Prior to joining Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, Chef Kalpesh served as Executive Chef at Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, where he was responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, developing innovative menus, ensuring stringent food safety standards, optimizing food and labour costs and curating bespoke culinary experiences for banquets and events.

Over the course of his career, Chef Kalpesh has built an impressive portfolio with some of India's leading hospitality brands, including Renaissance Ahmedabad Hotel, Fairfield by Marriott Pune Kharadi, ibis Pune by Accor Hotels, Royal Orchids Golden Suites Pune and Radisson Hotel Pune. His experience across luxury hotels, international hospitality brands, corporate dining and destination resorts has equipped him with a well-rounded perspective on contemporary culinary excellence and hospitality operations.

Throughout his career, Chef Kalpesh has demonstrated expertise in menu innovation, kitchen administration, food cost optimisation, inventory management, team mentoring and delivering exceptional guest experiences. He is also skilled in conceptualising regional and international cuisines, leading large culinary teams and executing high-profile banquets while implementing operational best practices that enhance efficiency without compromising quality.

On his appointment, Kadambari Sabharwal, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, said, "We are delighted to welcome Chef Kalpesh Kature to Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal as our Executive Chef. His impressive culinary background, commitment to excellence and people-first leadership approach align perfectly with the values we uphold at the hotel. We are confident that his experience and fresh perspective will further strengthen our culinary offerings while creating meaningful dining experiences for our guests. We look forward to the passion and creativity he will bring to our kitchens and wish him every success in his new role.

In his new role as Executive Chef at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, Chef Kalpesh will oversee the hotel's culinary operations across its restaurants, banqueting and in-room dining. He will focus on driving menu innovation, maintaining the highest standards of quality and food safety, mentoring the culinary team and creating memorable dining experiences for guests.

Six Senses Fort Barwara appoints Burkhard Wolter as General Manager

The hospitality veteran brings more than three decades of international luxury hospitality experience to the wellness resort.

Six Senses Fort Barwara has announced the appointment of Burkhard Wolter as General Manager. With over three decades of experience in international luxury hospitality across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean, Burkhard brings extensive operational expertise and a strong passion for people, culture and guest experiences.

Professional background

Throughout his career, Burkhard has held leadership roles across some of the world’s most renowned luxury hospitality brands including Shangri-La, Four Seasons, Rosewood, Raffles, Kempinski, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts and Orient Express. His professional journey has spanned luxury resorts, heritage hotels, city properties, cruise ships and boutique hospitality ventures, giving him a well-rounded understanding of the industry.

Role and responsibilities

At Six Senses Fort Barwara, Burkhard will oversee the overall operations of the property, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, supporting host development, strengthening sustainability initiatives and building on the resort’s position as one of India’s leading wellness destinations.

Chief Operating Officer’s perspective

Welcoming him to the property, Neil Palmer, Chief Operating Officer, Six Senses, said, “We are delighted to welcome Burkhard to Six Senses Fort Barwara and the Six Senses family. His remarkable international experience, strategic vision, and people-first leadership style will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the property’s position as a leading destination for transformative luxury. Burkhard’s appreciation for heritage, wellbeing, sustainability, and culinary storytelling embodies the values that define Six Senses. I am confident he will inspire both our hosts and our guests while building on the incredible legacy of Fort Barwara. We look forward to working alongside Burkhard as we build this vision and continue creating memorable journeys for our guests.”

General Manager’s perspective

Commenting on his appointment, Burkhard Wolter, General Manager, Six Senses Fort Barwara, said, “Six Senses Fort Barwara is a truly special property that brings together wellness, sustainability, heritage and community in a meaningful way. I am excited to join the team and contribute to the next phase of the property’s journey. My focus will be on further enriching the guest experience, supporting our hosts and continuing to build on the strong foundation that has already been established.”

Focus areas

A strong advocate of sustainable hospitality, Burkhard’s priorities for the property include strengthening sustainability efforts, maintaining the heritage integrity of the fort, enhancing wellness-led experiences and ensuring long-term operational excellence. Outside of work, Burkhard enjoys exploring local cultures and cuisines, travelling to discover new destinations and engaging with communities – experiences that continue to influence both his personal and professional journey.

Leadership approach

Known for his collaborative and coaching-led management style, Burkhard believes that exceptional hospitality begins with engaged and empowered teams. Having worked across diverse cultures and destinations throughout his career, he brings a deep appreciation for local traditions, authentic experiences and meaningful guest connections

Eco Hotels appoints Purnima Nerurkar as Vice President – Strategy, Product Development & HR

The former Air India General Manager joins the company to lead strategy, product development and human resources.

Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited has announced the appointment of Purnima Nerurkar as Vice President – Strategy, Product Development & HR, reinforcing the company’s leadership team as it accelerates its growth and expansion plans.

Professional background

Nerurkar brings over 35 years of distinguished leadership experience in the aviation industry, having served as General Manager at Air India. Throughout her career, she has led key functions including aircraft evaluation and acquisition, leasing, network planning, bilateral and codeshare partnerships, as well as global sales and distribution strategies. Recognised for her strategic vision and execution excellence, she has successfully managed large-scale initiatives and delivered sustainable business outcomes across complex operational environments.

New role

Widely respected for her collaborative leadership style and ability to build lasting industry relationships, Nerurkar served as Chairperson of the Board of Airline Representatives (BAR) for five years, representing foreign airlines operating in India.

She was also selected for the prestigious Commonwealth Leadership Development Fellowship hosted by the University of Oxford, UK, and currently serves as a Visiting Faculty at IIM Sirmaur. In her new role at Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited, she will lead strategic initiatives, product development, and human resources, supporting the company’s vision of delivering sustainable and innovative hospitality experiences.

Executive Chairman’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Vinod K. Tripathi, Executive Chairman, Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited, said: “We are delighted to welcome Purnima Nerurkar to the Eco Hotels family. Her exceptional leadership experience, strategic mindset, and proven ability to build high-performing teams will be invaluable as we continue to expand our footprint and strengthen our commitment to sustainable hospitality. We are confident that her expertise will play a significant role in shaping the next phase of our growth.”

Purnima Nerurkar’s perspective

Speaking on her appointment, Purnima Nerurkar, Vice President – Strategy, Product Development & HR, Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited, said: “I am excited to join Eco Hotels & Resorts Limited at such a transformative stage of its journey. The company’s vision of responsible and sustainable hospitality strongly resonates with me, and I look forward to contributing towards its strategic growth, developing innovative offerings, and fostering a culture of excellence that creates lasting value for our guests, employees, and stakeholders.

A Journey of Growth: Yogesh Gumaste Named Director of Loss Prevention at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park

A safe, secure, and trusted environment is fundamental to delivering guest satisfaction and exceptional hospitality. Bringing over a decade of experience within Marriott International, Yogesh Gumaste takes on the role of Director of Loss Prevention at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park, where he leads the hotel's safety, security, and risk management functions across the property.

Yogesh's journey with Marriott is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and continuous growth. He began his career at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park as a Loss Prevention Executive, where he spent five years building a strong foundation in hotel security and operations. He then progressed to JW Marriott Pune as Assistant Manager – Loss Prevention, further expanding his expertise over the next five and a half years. Returning to The Westin Pune Koregaon Park as Associate Director of Loss Prevention, Yogesh has now been elevated to Director of Loss Prevention, marking another significant milestone in his remarkable journey within the Marriott family.

Yogesh believes that effective loss prevention goes beyond ensuring safety—it is about fostering confidence, protecting people and assets, and creating an environment where guests and associates feel secure at every step of their journey. As he joins the Executive Committee of the hotel, Yogesh continues to deliver world-class hospitality with uncompromising standards.

Harshwardhan Dhavale joins as Food & Beverage Manager

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Strengthening the management team

The hotel has elevated Amartya Chakraborty as Director of Operations, while welcoming Abhijit Masurkar as Director of Sales & Marketing, Chander Joshi as Assistant Director of Revenue Management, and Harshwardhan Dhavale as Food & Beverage Manager, bringing together more than five decades of collective hospitality experience across some of the industry’s most respected brands.

Enhancing the hotel’s culinary and guest experience offerings, Harshwardhan Dhavale joins as Food & Beverage Manager. Bringing 16 years of experience, he has worked with renowned brands including Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton Mumbai, DoubleTree by Hilton, ibis, Grand Mercure Bengaluru, Della Adventure, and Taj Residency. His extensive operational experience and guest-centric approach will play a key role in further elevating the hotel’s restaurants, banqueting operations, and destination dining experiences.

General Manager’s perspective

Kunal Shanker, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, “The hospitality industry is evolving rapidly, with guest expectations extending far beyond traditional hotel stays. Success today depends on creating seamless experiences across accommodation, dining, celebrations, events, and every guest touchpoint. These leadership appointments reflect our commitment to building a future-ready team that combines commercial expertise, operational excellence, and a guest-first mindset. Amartya’s elevation, alongside the addition of Abhijit, Chander, and Harshwardhan, brings diverse strengths that will further enhance our business performance, service standards, and innovation. Together, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of growth for Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach while delivering exceptional value to our guests, partners, and associates.”

Abhijit Masurkar joins the hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Leading the commercial function, Abhijit Masurkar joins the hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing with over 20 years of experience in hospitality sales and business development. Having held leadership roles with IHCL (Taj & Vivanta), The Leela Palace, and Hilton, he brings deep expertise in market strategy, stakeholder engagement, and revenue generation. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening the hotel’s market positioning, driving commercial performance, and expanding opportunities across corporate, leisure, weddings, and MICE segments.

Chander Joshi has been appointed Assistant Director of Revenue Management.

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has announced four key leadership appointments across its commercial, operational, and guest experience functions, further strengthening its management team.

Further strengthening the hotel’s commercial capabilities, Chander Joshi has been appointed Assistant Director of Revenue Management. With over 14 years of experience, he has worked with leading hospitality brands including Holiday Inn (IHG), DoubleTree by Hilton, Le Méridien, The Lalit, and The Leela. His expertise in revenue optimisation, demand forecasting, pricing strategy, and distribution management will support the hotel’s continued focus on maximising performance across diverse business segments in an increasingly dynamic hospitality landscape.

Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall appoints Maria Candice Rodrigues as Revenue Manager

Rodrigues will lead the hotel's revenue management strategy, overseeing pricing, forecasting, distribution and commercial performance.

Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall has announced the appointment of Maria Candice Rodrigues as its Revenue Manager, further strengthening the hotel’s commercial leadership as it continues to focus on strategic growth and revenue optimisation.

Role and responsibilities

In her new role, Candice will lead the hotel’s revenue management function, overseeing pricing strategy, demand forecasting, inventory optimisation and distribution management to maximise commercial performance. She will work closely with the sales, reservations and operations teams to identify new revenue opportunities and support the hotel’s overall business objectives.

Her key priorities will include strengthening the hotel’s commercial performance through data-driven pricing strategies, enhancing forecasting accuracy, optimising distribution channels and identifying new revenue opportunities across market segments. She will also focus on fostering cross-functional collaboration to drive sustainable RevPAR growth and maximise the hotel’s long-term profitability.

Professional background

Candice joins Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall from Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, where she served as Assistant Manager – Revenue. During her tenure, she played a key role in driving pricing strategy, forecasting demand, managing inventory and analysing market trends across rooms and convention business.

She was also involved in the implementation of Opera Cloud and IDEAS Revenue Management System, further strengthening the property’s revenue planning and operational efficiency. Prior to this, Candice held roles in Reservations at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, ibis Chennai City Centre and Alila Diwa Goa, building a strong foundation in hotel distribution, reservations strategy and commercial operations before transitioning into Revenue Management.

General Manager’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Ram Shetty, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall, said, “We are delighted to welcome Maria to Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall. Her analytical mindset, commercial acumen and experience in revenue strategy make her a valuable addition to our team. As we continue to focus on driving profitable growth, strengthening our direct booking channels, and optimizing overall commercial performance, Candice’s expertise will be instrumental in enhancing our revenue strategies and maximizing business opportunities across all segments. We are confident that her expertise will help strengthen our revenue performance and support the hotel’s continued growth.”

Revenue Manager’s perspective

Speaking about her appointment, Candice, Revenue Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall said, “I am thrilled to join Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall and be part of a team that is committed to excellence in hospitality. Revenue management is about understanding changing market dynamics and making informed decisions that create long-term value. What excites me most about this opportunity is the ability to combine data-driven insights with strong cross-functional collaboration to develop agile commercial strategies that deliver measurable results. With Bengaluru continuing to evolve as one of India’s most dynamic hospitality markets, I look forward to identifying new opportunities, driving revenue performance and contributing to the hotel’s long-term success. I am eager to work closely with the team to drive sustainable growth while continuing to deliver value for both the hotel and its guests.”

The Boomerung Complex appoints Chef Harsha Pal Singh as Executive Chef

Chef Harsha Pal Singh brings more than two decades of culinary experience across India and the Middle East to the Jaypee Hotels-managed property.

The Boomerung Complex, Noida, managed by Jaypee Hotels, has announced the appointment of Chef Harsha Pal Singh as its new Executive Chef, reinforcing the property’s commitment to culinary excellence and elevated guest experiences.

Professional experience

With over 22 years of international culinary experience, Chef Harsha joins Jaypee Hotels after building an impressive career with renowned hospitality brands including Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, Radisson Noida Sector 18, Park Plaza Noida, Barracuda Beach Resort (UAE), The Juffair Grand & Elite Crystal Hotel (Bahrain), Best Western Plus The Olive Hotel (Bahrain), and Taal – Dawat International Restaurant Group, Kuwait. His career spans luxury hotels, premium resorts, specialty restaurants, international banquets, destination weddings, celebrity dining, and large-scale hospitality events across India and the Middle East.

Previous role

Before joining Jaypee Hotels, Chef Harsha served as Executive Chef at Barracuda Beach Resort, UAE, where he led multiple specialty restaurants, banquet operations, all-day dining, and in-room dining while managing a brigade of more than 26 chefs. He successfully introduced international food festivals, strengthened quality systems, and enhanced guest satisfaction through innovative menu development and operational excellence.

Career highlights

Earlier, at The Juffair Grand & Elite Crystal Hotel, Bahrain, he supervised eight unique dining concepts featuring Indian, Arabic, American, Polynesian, and international cuisines. At Best Western Plus The Olive Hotel, Bahrain, he played a pivotal role in launching multiple restaurants, banquet operations, and the acclaimed Mantraa Indian Restaurant, helping establish the hotel as a respected culinary destination.

Culinary journey

Chef Harsha’s professional foundation was shaped during his tenure with Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, Radisson Noida Sector 18, and Park Plaza Noida. At Radisson, he worked alongside the legendary Chef Jiggs Kalra during the celebrated Punjabi Food Festival in October 2004, further strengthening his expertise in authentic North Indian cuisine. Throughout his career, he has also collaborated with renowned chefs, including Chef Ranveer Brar and Chef Kunal Kapur, enriching his culinary philosophy by blending traditional Indian flavors with contemporary global techniques.

Achievements

Widely respected as a mentor and culinary leader, Chef Harsha has trained numerous young chefs who have progressed to become Sous Chefs, Executive Sous Chefs, Executive Chefs, and hospitality professionals across India and the Middle East. His accomplishments include winning the Bronze Medal at the Horeca Culinary Competition while representing Taal Restaurant, Kuwait, receiving several accolades for regional and international food festivals, and earning the internationally recognized ACCP Level 3 Certification (UK).

Executive chef’s perspective

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Harsha Pal Singh said, “I am honored to join The Boomerung Complex by Jaypee Hotels. I look forward to creating exceptional culinary experiences, celebrating authentic flavors, driving innovation, and mentoring the next generation of culinary professionals.”

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar appoints Dr Nisarga V M as Wellness Manager

Dr Nisarga V M will oversee Spa by JW operations, wellness programming and guest experience at the hotel.

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, known as the “Gateway to Mumbai,” announces the appointment of Dr Nisarga V M as its new Wellness Manager. Renowned for its bespoke therapies and immersive wellness experiences, Spa by JW is designed around the brand’s four signature pillars: Calm, Nourish, Balance and Renew, creating personalised journeys that help guests restore balance, rejuvenate the mind and body, and embrace holistic well-being.

Role and responsibilities

In her new role, Dr Nisarga will lead the operations of Spa by JW, overseeing wellness programming, spa operations, guest experience, and team development. She will play a pivotal role in enhancing the hotel’s spa offerings by delivering personalised experiences rooted in the core pillars: Calm, Nourish, Balance and Renew.

Professional experience

Dr Nisarga brings over five years of experience in luxury spa and wellness operations across leading hospitality brands, including IHCL (Taj Hotels). Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions at Taj Alibag Resort & Spa, Taj Theog Resort & Spa, Taj Devi Ratn, Jaipur, where she was a part of the pre-opening team, and Golden Palms Resort & Spa, Bengaluru. Across these roles, she has successfully led operational excellence, wellness programming, and high-performing teams while consistently delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Spa manager’s perspective

Speaking on her appointment, Dr Nisarga V M, Wellness Manager, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, said, “I am delighted to join JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar and be a part of a brand that places genuine emphasis on holistic well-being. Wellness has become an integral part of the luxury hospitality experience and I look forward to collaborating with the team to further elevate the Spa by JW experience with wellness programmes and experiences that resonate with the evolving needs of today’s guests.”

MAYFAIR Hotels appoints Rajni Kumari Singh as Marketing Manager

Rajni Kumari Singh joins the corporate office to lead marketing, public relations and brand communication initiatives.

MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts appoints Rajni Kumari Singh as Marketing Manager at its Corporate Office. Bringing expertise in destination marketing, luxury hospitality communications, public relations, and integrated brand strategy, Rajni joins MAYFAIR to support the brand’s continued growth by enhancing market visibility, strengthening brand positioning, and driving impactful marketing and communication initiatives.

Professional experience

Prior to joining MAYFAIR, Rajni served as Assistant Manager – Public Relations at TRAC Representations (India) Pvt. Ltd., where she managed integrated public relations and marketing communications for globally recognized tourism boards and luxury hospitality brands, including the Jamaica Tourist Board, Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and Cheval Collection.

Her experience spans strategic media relations, destination marketing, influencer collaborations, stakeholder engagement, and brand storytelling, enabling her to successfully execute communication campaigns across domestic and international markets.

Role and responsibilities

At MAYFAIR, Rajni will lead integrated marketing and public relations initiatives, driving strategic communications that strengthen the brand’s presence across digital, media, and consumer touchpoints.

She will spearhead public relations campaigns, media engagement, brand communications, content-driven storytelling, and strategic partnerships to enhance brand visibility, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and support the company’s business objectives. Her expertise in reputation management and destination branding will further reinforce MAYFAIR’s connection with discerning luxury travellers, industry partners, and the media.

Management’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Nelson Sumit Gomes, Assistant General Manager – Marketing, MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rajni to the MAYFAIR family. Her strong background in public relations, strategic communications, and destination marketing aligns perfectly with our vision of strengthening the brand’s presence across key markets. As we continue to expand our portfolio and enhance our brand visibility, I am confident that her expertise will play an important role in elevating MAYFAIR’s marketing and communication initiatives while fostering meaningful engagement with our guests, partners, and the media.

ITC Windsor appoints Arnold Lobo as Learning and Development Manager

Lobo brings over a decade of experience with ITC Hotels to lead talent development, leadership capability and employee engagement initiatives.

ITC Windsor announces the appointment of Arnold Lobo as its Learning and Development Manager, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and building future-ready teams.

Professional experience

With over a decade of experience with ITC Hotels, Arnold brings a strong blend of operational expertise and learning leadership to his new role. Beginning his hospitality journey in Housekeeping Operations, he developed extensive experience in quality management, service excellence, and people leadership before transitioning into Learning and Development, driven by his passion for empowering associates and enhancing organizational capability.

Career journey

Arnold successfully completed the Career Enhancement Program in Learning and Development at the ITC Hospitality Management Institute (ITC HMI). Over the years, he has contributed to learning and capability-building initiatives across renowned ITC Hotels, including ITC Maratha, ITC Mughal, ITC Gardenia, and ITC Kakatiya.

His expertise spans training needs analysis, behavioural and functional learning interventions, leadership development, employee engagement, and supporting the successful pre-opening of multiple hotels.

Role and responsibilities

In his new role, Arnold will spearhead Learning and Development initiatives at ITC Windsor, focusing on talent development, leadership capability, employee engagement, and cultivating a high-performance learning culture that supports both associate growth and exceptional guest experiences.

Lobo’s perspective

Speaking on his appointment, Arnold said, “I am delighted to join ITC Windsor and contribute to creating meaningful learning experiences that empower our associates to realise their full potential. I firmly believe that true success begins with investing in people. When individuals are inspired to learn, grow and lead with confidence, exceptional guest experiences naturally follow.”

General manager’s perspective

Welcoming him to the team, Sabrina Dey, General Manager, ITC Windsor, said, “We are delighted to welcome Arnold to ITC Windsor. His strong operational foundation, passion for developing people, and extensive experience in learning and capability building make him a valuable addition to our leadership team. We are confident that his expertise will further strengthen our learning culture and contribute significantly to the growth and success of our associates.”.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center appoints Shailender Kumar Yadav as Food & Beverage Manager

Bengaluru, July 2026: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center announced Shailender Kumar Yadav as Food & Beverage Manager. In his new role, he will lead the hotel’s food and beverage strategy across its restaurants, bars, banqueting operations and 65,000 sq. ft. convention centre.

With over 13 years of experience across luxury hospitality brands in India, the Middle East and the United Kingdom, Shailender brings strong operational depth across multi outlet dining, large scale banquets, revenue optimisation, restaurant concept development and guest experience. At Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, he will oversee an extensive food and beverage portfolio spanning 8 outlets, convention and banquet operations, while leading a team of 153 associates and 15 managers.

Prior to this, Shailender was Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at The St. Regis Mumbai, where he managed a luxury dining and banqueting portfolio across specialty restaurants, all day dining, in room dining, meeting spaces and 50,000 sq. ft. of banquet facilities. His previous roles include Director of Restaurants at The Westin Gurgaon, Restaurant Floor Manager at Boisdale of Canary Wharf, London, Restaurant Manager at The St. Regis Doha, Assistant Restaurant Manager at InterContinental Doha and leadership roles at W Goa. He began his hospitality journey with The Oberoi New Delhi and Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah.

A graduate of the Institute of Hotel Management, Gwalior, Shailender holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration. He has also been recognised as Best Pre Opening Executive at W Goa and holds a Train the Trainer Certification from Marriott International.

Commenting on his appointment, Shailender Kumar Yadav, Food & Beverage Manager, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said, “Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield has a unique food and beverage ecosystem, with strong standalone dining venues as well as one of the city’s most significant convention and banqueting portfolios. My focus will be on bringing sharper operational consistency, stronger restaurant programming and more guest led dining experiences across the hotel. I look forward to working closely with the team to build on the hotel’s existing strengths and create experiences that are commercially strong, service focused and memorable for our guests.”

Welcoming him to the role, Elton Hurtis, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said, “Food and beverage is central to the hotel’s positioning, from our restaurants and bars to large format weddings, social celebrations, corporate events and conventions. Shailender’s experience across luxury hotels, international markets and high volume operations makes him well suited to lead this vertical. His understanding of revenue, service culture and team development will be valuable as we continue to strengthen our dining and events proposition in Bengaluru.”

With his appointment, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center continues to strengthen its leadership team with a focus on elevated dining, operational excellence and high quality guest experiences across its food and beverage division.

The Orchid Pune Appoints Rajesh Mehta as General Manager

Pune, Maharashtra: The Orchid Pune, one of the city's leading five-star hotels, has announced the appointment of Rajesh Mehta as its new General Manager. Bringing over 34 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including more than 32 years of full-time professional experience, Mehta will lead the hotel's operations and drive its next phase of growth.

A seasoned hospitality professional, Mehta has built an extensive career across luxury hotels, business hotels, resorts and heritage properties in India. He began his hospitality journey with Hotel Clarks, Varanasi, and has since held leadership roles at renowned properties including Swosti Plaza, Bhubaneswar, Ritz Plaza, Amritsar, HRH Group of Hotels at Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur, Golkonda Resorts & Spa, Hyderabad, Ramee Guestline Hotels in Mumbai, Hotel Sea Princess, Juhu, and Ira by Orchid, Mumbai.

Throughout his career, Mehta has successfully led hotel operations, revenue growth, brand transitions and service excellence initiatives. He played a pivotal role in the successful conversion and rebranding of VITS Andheri into Ira by Orchid and spearheaded the property's transition to a Government of India 5-Star classified hotel. His leadership has consistently delivered improvements in occupancy, ARR, RevPAR, profitability, guest satisfaction and overall market positioning. He has also strengthened MICE, banquet, corporate and travel-trade business across multiple properties while mentoring large teams and fostering high standards of operational excellence.

Prior to this appointment, Mehta served as General Manager at Ira by Orchid, Mumbai, from October 2018 to March 2026. In April 2026, he transitioned within the Kamat Group of Hotels to take charge of The Orchid Pune.

Spread across 386 well-appointed rooms and offering nearly 130,000 sq. ft. of banquet and event space, The Orchid Pune is a preferred destination for corporate conferences, MICE events, weddings, social celebrations and leisure stays. Under Mehta's leadership, the hotel aims to further strengthen its position as one of Pune's most sought-after hospitality destinations.

Speaking on his appointment, Rajesh Mehta, General Manager, The Orchid Pune, said, "I am delighted to join The Orchid Pune and look forward to working with the team to build on the hotel's strong foundation. My focus will be on delivering consistently memorable experiences for our guests, strengthening our presence across the corporate, MICE and wedding segments, and continuing to grow our food and beverage offerings. I also believe that great hospitality begins with a motivated team, and I look forward to creating a positive work environment where people feel valued, take ownership and work together towards a common goal."

With a strong focus on operational efficiency, service excellence and people-first leadership, Mehta's vision is to enhance the hotel's overall guest experience while driving sustainable business growth through innovation, strategic partnerships and continuous team development.