Shilton Hospitality appoints Sajeev Kulangarath as General Manager of Shilton Dee Cee Chennai

The hospitality professional brings over two decades of experience in hotel operations, revenue management and business development.

Shilton Hospitality announces the appointment of Sajeev Kulangarath as General Manager of Shilton Dee Cee, Chennai. Bringing over 21 years of rich hospitality experience, Sajeev assumes leadership with a strong background in hotel operations, guest satisfaction, revenue management, and business development.

Driving operational excellence and strategic growth

In his new role, Sajeev will lead overall operations at Shilton Dee Cee, focusing on enhancing guest experiences, empowering team performance, and driving sustainable business growth. His mandate centers on elevating the property’s operational standards while expanding its market presence.

Under his direction, the hotel aims to further consolidate its position as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers in Chennai.

A legacy of global hospitality leadership

Sajeev’s distinguished career spans over two decades of leadership roles across major global and domestic hotel brands. His professional portfolio includes key positions with prestigious international and regional chains such as Marriott (Le Méridien), IHG (Holiday Inn, London), Speke Hotels in Uganda, Laico Hotels in Kenya, Choice Hotels, Royal Orchid Hotels, and Spree Hospitality.

An alumnus of top-tier hospitality and business institutions, Sajeev holds a Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) alongside an MBA in Total Quality Management, equipping him with a strong blend of strategic vision and process-driven execution.

General Manager’s perspective

Speaking on his appointment, Sajeev Kulangarath said: “I am honoured to join Shilton Dee Cee as General Manager. Throughout my hospitality journey, I have always believed that great hotels are built by passionate people who create memorable experiences for every guest. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team to enhance our guest experience, strengthen our operational standards, and continue positioning Shilton Dee Cee as one of Chennai’s preferred destinations for business and leisure travellers.”

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

National, August 2026 – The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, an award-winning luxury wildlife retreat nestled on the edge of Bandipur National Park, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager.

Siddharth brings with him extensive global hospitality experience across luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants in India, Thailand, Japan, the UAE, and the Maldives. Having held leadership roles with renowned brands including IHCL, Alila Hotels & Resorts, Sterling Holidays, Club Med, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa, he has built strong expertise in resort operations, food and beverage management, guest experience, and team leadership. His proven track record of driving operational excellence, enhancing guest satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams makes him a valuable addition to The Serai Resorts, Bandipur.

Siddharth holds a master’s degree in Business with a specialization in Hospitality Management. Complementing his academic foundation, he brings strong strategic and operational expertise, combining business acumen with hands-on hospitality leadership to create memorable guest experiences and foster high-performing teams.

Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said, "With Siddharth joining the leadership team, he will play an important role in the next chapter for The Serai Bandipur. His proven track record in luxury hospitality, passion for service excellence, and deep understanding of resort operations align perfectly with our vision of crafting meaningful, destination-led experiences for the unhurried explorer. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to his leadership in further elevating the thoughtful experiences and authentic connections that define The Serai Resorts."

In his new role, Siddharth will oversee the overall operations of The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, ensuring seamless guest experiences while driving service excellence, operational efficiency, and team development. He will work closely with the resort team to elevate the resort's positioning as one of India's leading wildlife and luxury destinations, while continuing to deliver the authentic and immersive experiences that define the Serai brand.

Speaking on his appointment, Mr. Manjeshwar said, "I am delighted to join The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, a destination that beautifully blends nature, thoughtful experiences, and gracious hospitality. Having worked across diverse hospitality markets and brands, I look forward to collaborating with the team to create meaningful guest journeys, strengthen our culture of service excellence, and deliver the immersive, destination-led experiences that make every stay at The Serai Resorts truly memorable."

Hyatt Place Vithalapur appoints Bhuwan Chandra as General Manager

The hospitality professional will lead the 108-room hotel's operations, commercial strategy and guest experience initiatives in Gujarat.

Hyatt Place Vithalapur, Gujarat, has appointed Bhuwan Chandra as General Manager, reinforcing the hotel’s continued commitment to operational excellence, guest satisfaction and sustainable business growth.

New role

In his new role as General Manager, Bhuwan will lead Hyatt Place Vithalapur into its next phase of growth, with a focus on enhancing guest satisfaction, strengthening operational efficiencies, driving commercial performance and further positioning the hotel as a preferred destination for business and leisure travellers from Gujarat and across India.

Professional background

Bhuwan is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of industry experience, including 14 years with Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Since joining Hyatt Place Vithalapur during its pre-opening phase in May 2025, he has been instrumental in establishing the operational foundation of the 108-room hotel.

General Manager’s perspective

“I look forward to delivering exceptional guest experiences for guests at Hyatt Place Vithalapur while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement at the property with my team,” says Bhuwan.

Experience with Hyatt

His contributions span project planning, recruitment, operational readiness, brand compliance, commercial strategy execution, and owner relations, ensuring the property consistently aligns with Hyatt’s global standards of excellence.

During his tenure with Hyatt, Bhuwan has held key leadership positions, including Director of Rooms at Hyatt Ahmedabad, and played a significant role in the successful opening of Hyatt Place Aurangabad. He has also contributed to the operations and growth of Hyatt Regency Kolkata and Hyatt Regency Dharamshala, further strengthening his expertise in hotel operation

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse elevates Chef Pankaj Sah as Executive Chef

The hospitality professional will lead the hotel's culinary operations, team development and dining experiences in his new role.

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse announces the elevation of Chef Pankaj Sah as its Executive Chef, recognizing his outstanding culinary expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Professional journey

Chef Pankaj has steadily scaled the culinary ladder with dedication, passion, and purpose. Throughout his career, he has mastered both culinary and administrative responsibilities, demonstrating exceptional proficiency in managing day-to-day kitchen operations, orchestrating large-scale events, and curating memorable dining experiences. His ability to seamlessly combine operational excellence with culinary innovation has made him an integral part of the hotel’s success.

Contribution to the hotel

Since joining Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse, Chef Pankaj has played a pivotal role in enhancing the hotel’s culinary offerings, consistently elevating the guest dining experience through his unwavering focus on quality. His leadership has inspired the culinary team to deliver exceptional experiences while embracing innovation and consistency across every touchpoint.

New role

In his new role as Executive Chef, Chef Pankaj will oversee all culinary operations, mentor and develop the young culinary team and continue to uphold the highest standards of operational excellence.

Management’s perspective

Speaking on the appointment, the General Manager of Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse said: “Chef Pankaj’s elevation from Executive Sous Chef to Executive Chef is a reflection of his remarkable talent. His passion and ability to create exceptional dining experiences have significantly contributed to our success. We are confident that under his leadership, we will scale new heights in culinary fiefdom.”

Jungle Camps India appoints wildlife naturalist Dhanya Venkatesh as Lodge Manager at Tadoba Jungle Camp

The wildlife hospitality professional brings nearly two decades of experience in safari operations, lodge management and conservation-focused guest experiences.

Jungle Camps India has announced the appointment of Dhanya Venkatesh, who has joined the company and will be based at Tadoba Jungle Camp as Lodge Manager. A naturalist and wildlife hospitality professional, Dhanya brings nearly two decades of experience across India’s forests, having led safaris, managed lodge operations and curated immersive wildlife experiences for guests.

Professional background

Her association with wildlife tourism began on the forest floor, guiding guests through some of India’s diverse landscapes and interpreting the behaviour of its species. Over the years, she moved into leadership roles, managing teams, guest services and day-to-day operations at wildlife lodges while continuing to remain closely connected with conservation and interpretation. A multilingual professional, Dhanya is proficient in English, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu, with basic knowledge of Spanish.

Experience in wildlife tourism

A trained naturalist and wildlife guide, Dhanya has guided guests across several of India’s important wildlife reserves, interpreting local ecology, animal behaviour and conservation challenges. She was also recognised as the first and only female driver registered by the Forest Department to operate a 4×4 vehicle inside Corbett Tiger Reserve, marking a notable achievement in the field of wildlife tourism.

Dhanya’s experience spans several of India’s prominent wildlife landscapes, including Corbett, Satpura, Pench, Tadoba, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore, Gir and Kaziranga. Over the years, she has worked with leading wildlife lodges, taking on roles across lodge operations, naturalist training, guest engagement and safari programmes.

During her time in Corbett, Dhanya became the first and only female driver registered by the Forest Department to operate a 4×4 vehicle inside Corbett Tiger Reserve. The role allowed her to combine her knowledge of the terrain, wildlife and safari operations while leading guests through the reserve.

Sustainability initiatives

Beyond guiding guests through forests, Dhanya has also worked on initiatives that connect hospitality with sustainability. She has managed organic gardening, greenhouse production, orchard management and beekeeping programmes, including honey production for the property’s food and beverage operations. In one of her roles, she established an organic vegetable garden, composting systems and beekeeping initiatives involving neighbouring villages.

Management’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Gajendra Singh Rathore, Chairperson & Managing Director, Jungle Camps India, said, “Dhanya’s understanding of wildlife, years of operational experience and ability to connect with guests and teams make her a wonderful addition to Tadoba Jungle Camp. Her career reflects the many facets of wildlife hospitality — from guiding in the forest to managing the people and processes that shape a guest’s stay.”

New role

In her new role, Dhanya will oversee lodge operations, guest services, team coordination and wildlife-related activities at Tadoba Jungle Camp, bringing her field experience and operational knowledge to one of Maharashtra’s important tiger habitats.

Novotel Pune Nagar Road Welcomes Tarun Kumar Mishra as Director of Finance

Pune: Strengthening its leadership team, Novotel Pune Nagar Road has appointed Tarun Kumar Mishra as its new Director of Finance. With more than two decades of experience in hospitality finance, he brings deep expertise in financial planning, business controls, compliance, and operational strategy, having worked with some of the industry's most respected hospitality brands.

Tarun joins the hotel after serving as Director, Finance & Procurement at Novotel New Delhi City Centre. During his 21-year career, he has held senior finance positions with Marriott International, The Oberoi Group, and Zuri Hospitality, where he led financial operations across hotel properties and corporate offices. His experience spans budgeting, financial reporting, audits, statutory compliance, cost management, and driving operational efficiencies.
In his new role, Tarun will be responsible for leading the hotel's finance function, overseeing financial planning, governance, compliance, and business performance. He will work closely with the leadership team to strengthen financial processes, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to the hotel's continued growth.

Commenting on the appointment, Anant Leekha, General Manager, Novotel Pune Nagar Road, said, "We are pleased to welcome Tarun to our leadership team. His extensive experience across leading hospitality brands, combined with his strong financial acumen and collaborative approach, makes him a valuable addition to the hotel. We look forward to his contribution as we continue to strengthen our operations and deliver exceptional guest experiences."

Tarun holds an MBA in Finance along with postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in Commerce. Throughout his career, he has been recognised for building strong financial systems, driving operational efficiency, and supporting business growth through sound financial leadership.

Air India appoints Tewolde Gebremariam as Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director

The Board of Directors of Air India today announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as the airline’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson. This executive transition marks a pivotal juncture in Air India’s transformation journey to become a world-class, leading global airline.

The Board conducted a comprehensive search to identify the next leader for Air India, overseen by a dedicated Board committee. The committee rigorously evaluated internal as well as highly accomplished external candidates from across the world.

The objective of the Board was to identify a leader with a proven record of managing mega-scale airline turnarounds, delivering operational excellence, fostering a strong culture of safety and service, and driving profitable expansion. Following an intensive evaluation process, the Board unanimously concluded that Mr. Gebremariam possesses the ideal combination of leadership, deep operational expertise, and strategic execution capability required for Air India’s next phase of growth.

Tewolde Gebremariam is widely recognized as one of the most successful aviation chief executives. During his decade-plus tenure as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, he spearheaded a multi-billion-dollar expansion, transforming a regional carrier into Africa’s largest, most profitable, and decorated airline group—growing revenue by more than fourfold and fleet size nearly threefold.

His unique strength lies in managing complex operational landscapes, driving cultural transformation, building competitive global hubs, and developing world-class MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and aviation training infrastructure.

As Air India shifts from its foundational turnaround phase into a high growth & profitable execution phase, Mr. Gebremariam brings crucial capabilities required for Air India’s next leg of journey. He has strong experience in expanding international long-haul networks and building world-class hub operations, an unrelenting commitment to safety standards, engineering quality, and operational reliability. He also has a track record of driving sustained profitability.  while navigating complex economic cycles and dynamic global markets together with a deep experience in workforce upskilling, talent development, and embedding a high-performance, customer-first service culture.

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said: "On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Tewolde to Air India. Having completed the initial phase of stabilization, integration, and fleet commitments under Campbell's guidance, Air India is now entering a critical execution and expansion era. Tewolde’s track record in building one of the world's most efficient and profitable airline groups makes him uniquely suited to lead Air India. His operational expertise, commitment to safety, and vision for hub development will be instrumental as we establish Air India as a premier global carrier and a source of national pride."

Tewolde Gebremariam, Incoming CEO & Managing Director, said: "It is a profound honour to be entrusted with leading Air India at such a historic moment in its journey. Air India carries an incredible legacy, and the opportunity to build a world-class global airline that reflects India’s extraordinary economic potential is uniquely exciting. I look forward to working closely with Chairman Chandrasekaran, the Board, our employees, and all government and industry partners to deliver exceptional operational reliability, warm Indian hospitality, and sustained long-term growth."

This leadership transition reinforces Air India’s alignment with national priorities and stakeholder expectations. Air India remains steadfastly committed to supporting India’s civil aviation ambitions and national economic vision. Under Mr. Gebremariam’s leadership, Air India will work closely with civil aviation authorities and regulators to strengthen India’s position as a premier global aviation hub, enhance international connectivity, and maintain the highest benchmarks of aviation safety and compliance.

People are the backbone of this transformation. Mr. Gebremariam’s leadership philosophy places people at the centre of organizational success. Employees across all divisions—flight crew, ground operations, engineering, and corporate—can look forward to a continued emphasis on training, exciting career pathways, and an empowering work environment built on merit, accountability, and pride in our national carrier.

Air India belongs to India and represents India to the world and is committed to building a reliable, warm, and world-class airline that every Indian can be immensely proud of. Passengers will see an accelerated push toward on-time performance, modern aircraft cabins, elevated hospitality, and seamless global connectivity.

The Board also thanked Campbell Wilson for his leadership over the past phase of Air India’s revitalization. He successfully oversaw complex merger and integration processes, initiated massive fleet modernization programs, established new corporate governance standards, and laid the foundations that were necessary for the future.

With a solid foundation now in place, Air India enters its next era with clear strategic clarity, robust capital backing, and world-class leadership at the helm. The Board is fully confident that under Tewolde Gebremariam, Air India will realize its full potential as a premier global aviation power

ibis Styles Mysuru appoints Naveen Kumar G as Front Office Manager

The hospitality professional brings over a decade of experience in front office operations, guest engagement and hotel pre-opening.

ibis Styles Mysuru announces the appointment of Naveen Kumar G as Front Office Manager, further strengthening its leadership team as the hotel continues to enhance service excellence and operational performance.

Professional background

With over a decade of hospitality experience, Naveen brings extensive expertise in front office operations, guest engagement, and hotel pre-opening, along with a strong track record of leading high performing teams and delivering exceptional guest service.

Prior to joining ibis Styles Mysuru, Naveen served as Front Office Manager at Fortune Select OMR Chennai, where he successfully led the hotel’s pre-opening front office operations, including operational planning, team recruitment and training, and the implementation of Opera Cloud PMS.

Front Office Manager’s perspective

Commenting on his appointment, Naveen Kumar G said, “I am delighted to join the vibrant team at ibis Styles Mysuru. I look forward to creating memorable guest experiences, strengthening operational excellence, and working alongside the team to uphold the brand’s energetic spirit and warm hospitality.

IndiGo names Willie Walsh as Chief Executive Officer

The former IATA Director General will lead the airline's global expansion strategy, operational excellence and long-term growth.

IndiGo announced that Willie Walsh has assumed charge as its new Chief Executive Officer to lead the airline’s next era of growth and global ambition. IndiGo had announced his appointment as its new CEO in March 2026.

Industry experience

Bringing over four decades of global aviation leadership experience, Walsh will work closely with the Board and the management team to build on IndiGo’s strong operational foundations while advancing its strategic ambitions and creating long-term value for customers, shareholders and all other stakeholders.

Managing Director’s perspective

Welcoming Walsh to the organisation, Rahul Bhatia, Managing Director, IndiGo, said, “As IndiGo enters its third decade and stands poised for the next phase of its growth, I am delighted to officially welcome Willie as the airline’s Chief Executive Officer. His extensive global experience in the aviation industry, combined with his operational and strategic expertise, will be instrumental as IndiGo accelerates its international expansion strategy. I am confident that under his leadership, IndiGo will further strengthen its standing on the global aviation stage and increasingly contribute to continued development of the Indian aviation sector.”

CEO’s perspective

Commenting on taking charge, Willie Walsh, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said, “IndiGo has built a remarkable legacy over the last two decades, establishing itself amongst the largest airlines in the world in a short span of time. With India becoming one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets, the opportunities ahead for IndiGo are immense. There could not be a more exciting and opportune time for me to join IndiGo than now. I look forward to working with the entire IndiGo team to build on the airline’s success and take it to greater heights globally.”

Professional background

Walsh is widely regarded as one of the aviation industry’s most accomplished, respected and influential leaders. Renowned for his pragmatic and resolute management, he has successfully led major airlines through growth, transformation, and complex operating environments. His distinguished career highlights commence from his role as a pilot at Aer Lingus to working his way up the ranks to become the CEO of the airline in 2001.

He has held leadership positions at several respected aviation organisations including CEO of British Airways (2005–2011); CEO of International Airlines Group (2011–2020); and most recently serving as Director General of International Air Transport Association (IATA).

New role

As CEO, Walsh will lead the airline’s overall management and strategic direction, with a focus on accelerating its global growth trajectory, driving operational excellence, strengthening network and commercial strategy, and further enhancing customer experience. He will work closely with the Board and the leadership team to guide IndiGo through its next stage of growth, reinforcing its leadership position in the industry.

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel elevates Stephen George to Director of Operations

The hospitality veteran takes on the new role after leading the hotel's food and beverage operations since 2024.

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel has announced the elevation of Stephen George as Director of Operations. Bringing over 20 years of hospitality experience, Stephen assumes the role after serving as the hotel’s Director of Food & Beverage, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening operational performance, enhancing guest experiences and driving key business initiatives.

New responsibilities

As Director of Operations, Stephen will work closely with the General Manager to oversee hotel operations, optimize business performance, elevate guest satisfaction and ensure operational excellence across all departments while upholding Marriott and Renaissance brand standards.

Professional journey

Having joined the hotel in 2024, Stephen has been instrumental in driving F&B growth, leading large-scale events, supporting the hotel’s renovation journey and fostering a high-performing team culture. Prior to Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, he held leadership positions across leading hospitality brands including Hyatt, Club Mahindra, Al Raha Beach Hotel Abu Dhabi and Park Hyatt Goa.

Stephen George on his elevation

Commenting on his elevation, Stephen George, Director of Operations, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, said: “It is a privilege to take on this role at a hotel that has been an important part of my professional journey. I look forward to working with our teams to build on our strong foundation, drive operational excellence and create memorable guest experiences while supporting the hotel’s continued growth.”

General Manager’s perspective

Welcoming him to his new role, Sita Lekshmi, General Manager, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, said: “Stephen has consistently demonstrated strong operational leadership, a collaborative approach and a deep understanding of our business. His elevation reflects the confidence we have in his ability to lead the hotel into its next phase of growth while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests.”

Abhiram Menon appointed Cluster General Manager of Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy TechVillage

The hospitality veteran will lead the 529-key dual-branded Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn complex on Bengaluru's Outer Ring Road.

Abhiram Menon has joined Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy TechVillage, Outer Ring Road (ORR), as the Cluster General Manager. In his new role, he will provide strategic direction for the 529-key dual-branded complex, which features 37,000 square feet of banquet space, four food and beverage outlets, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a yoga deck, a gym and a spa.

His priorities will include strengthening operational excellence and commercial performance, enhancing guest experiences, driving sustainable growth and further reinforcing the hotels’ position within Bengaluru’s corporate travel, dining and events landscape.

Professional background

With more than two decades of hospitality experience, Abhiram brings with him an outstanding track record in leadership, operations, F&B and guest experience excellence.

Abhiram Menon on his appointment

Commenting on his appointment, Abhiram said, “I am honoured to take on this role and lead two distinctive Hilton brands at one of Bengaluru’s key business destinations. With no significant new hospitality development on ORR in nearly a decade, this integrated complex presents a compelling one-stop destination for corporate travellers, MICE and events, as well as residents from the surrounding communities. I look forward to working with our teams to build on the complex’s strengths, elevate the guest experience and drive sustained commercial and operational performance.”

Career journey

Prior to this appointment, Abhiram served as the General Manager of Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks. Earlier in his career, he held progressively senior leadership positions at Lemon Tree Hotels and IHCL, building extensive expertise across hotel operations, commercial strategy and guest experience.

In 2022, he was named Hotelier India’s General Manager of the Year – Midscale to Upscale. Abhiram has also completed leadership and business management programmes at Harvard and holds a PGDBA in Sales and Marketing and a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management.

Novotel Bhubaneswar Janpath appoints Neelabh Sahay as General Manager

The hospitality veteran will lead the hotel's pre-opening phase and oversee its operational and commercial strategy in Bhubaneswar.

Novotel Bhubaneswar Janpath has announced the appointment of Neelabh Sahay as its General Manager, entrusting him with leading the hotel through its pre-opening phase and positioning it as a landmark hospitality destination in Odisha’s capital.

Professional background

A seasoned hospitality leader with over two decades of experience across luxury hotels and internationally renowned brands, Neelabh brings a proven track record in hotel operations, commercial strategy, pre-opening excellence, and people leadership. An alumnus of The Oberoi Centre of Learning & Development, he began his career with The Oberoi Hotels, where he developed a strong foundation in luxury hospitality and culinary excellence. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions with The Oberoi Grand Kolkata, Trident Nariman Point, Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences, and most recently served as Director of Operations at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.

Neelabh’s career is distinguished by a remarkable progression from culinary leadership to executive hotel management. Recognised as one of the youngest Executive Chefs at Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to build high-performing teams, drive operational excellence, elevate guest satisfaction, and deliver strong commercial results.

New role

As General Manager, Neelabh will oversee the pre-opening strategy and overall operations of Novotel Bhubaneswar Janpath. His mandate includes establishing robust operational systems, cultivating a culture of excellence, driving commercial performance, and delivering the contemporary, guest-centric experiences synonymous with the Novotel brand.

General Manager’s perspective

Commenting on his appointment, Neelabh Sahay, General Manager, Novotel Bhubaneswar Janpath, said: “It is an honour to lead Novotel Bhubaneswar Janpath as we prepare to introduce the hotel to the city. My vision is to establish the property as Bhubaneswar’s preferred destination for business, MICE and leisure travellers by delivering thoughtful hospitality, exceptional service, and meaningful guest experiences. Equally important is creating an environment where our teams feel inspired, empowered, and equipped to excel, because outstanding hospitality begins with engaged people. I look forward to working closely with our teams, partners, hotel ownership, and Accor to create lasting value while contributing to the continued growth of Bhubaneswar’s evolving hospitality landscape.”

Leadership approach

Drawing on the service philosophies of globally respected hospitality brands including The Oberoi, Trident and Accor, Neelabh’s leadership style is defined by operational rigour, strategic thinking, innovation, and a people-first approach. He is passionate about nurturing talent, fostering a culture of excellence, and delivering sustainable business growth. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, cooking, and exploring emerging technologies shaping the future of hospitality

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Elevates F&B Leadership with Two Key Appointments

New Director of Food and Beverage and Director of Culinary join the iconic Grande Dame

HANOI, Vietnam (August , 2026) – Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the city’s most storied hotel, has appointed two senior leaders to elevate its renowned culinary experience and offerings: Kevin Danet as Director of Food and Beverage and Liam Nealon as Director of Culinary.

The appointments reinforce the Metropole’s commitment to exceptional gastronomy as it celebrates its 125th anniversary with a series of immersive dining experiences throughout 2026.

With more than a decade of experience in Vietnam, and having spent almost two years as Assistant Director of Food and Beverage at Metropole Hanoi before stepping into this new position, Kevin brings intimate knowledge of the local market and hospitality landscape. He oversees the hotel’s eight F&B outlets, including the signature modern French fine dining restaurant Le Beaulieu. “Beautiful venues and exceptional cuisine are important, but what guests remember most is how we made them feel,” Kevin said.

Liam joined the Metropole with 25 years of international experience across Australia, Asia and Europe, most recently at the Four Seasons Resort Bali. Known for his deep respect for ingredients and focus on natural flavours, Liam aims to create more dynamic, engaging guest experiences. “I am particularly passionate about collaborating closely with service teams to foster meaningful guest connections and memorable moments,” Liam said.

George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, said: “We are delighted to work with Kevin and also welcome Liam to the Metropole family and further strengthen the synergy between the kitchen and the dining room. Their combined expertise and passion will further elevate our culinary offering as we celebrate 125 years of legendary hospitality in Hanoi. This is an exciting new chapter that perfectly aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional, memorable experiences for our guests.”

Throughout 2026, the Metropole invites guests and residents to discover a rich calendar of gastronomic journeys across its celebrated restaurants and bars, blending timeless elegance with fresh culinary perspectives.

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.