Kamat Hotels India Limited Appoints Milind Wadekar as Chief Financial Officer

Mumbai, August 2026: Bringing with him over 30 years of experience in finance, including more than two decades in the hospitality sector, Milind Wadekar has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of Kamat Hotels India Limited (KHIL). A seasoned finance leader, he brings extensive expertise across financial strategy, business planning, mergers and amalgamations, risk management, treasury, taxation and investor relations.

A Chartered Accountant and Bachelor of Commerce graduate, Wadekar has built a distinguished career across the hospitality and corporate finance sectors. His strategic approach, coupled with his strong understanding of financial management and business operations, has enabled him to consistently align financial strategies with broader business objectives and drive long-term value creation.

Prior to joining Kamat Hotels India Limited, Wadekar served as Executive Vice President – Finance and Investor Relations at Ventive Hospitality Limited, where he played a key role in driving financial strategy and strengthening investor relations. Before this, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Chalet Hotels Limited, where he was instrumental in optimising financial performance and driving shareholder value.

Over the course of his career, Milind has developed extensive expertise across Finance, Business Strategy, Mergers & Amalgamations, Risk Management, Treasury, Taxation and Investor Relations. He is recognised for his strategic thinking and ability to translate financial insights into business-focused strategies that support sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

Commenting on his appointment, Milind Wadekar, Chief Financial Officer, Kamat Hotels India Limited, said, “I am delighted to join Kamat Hotels India Limited at an exciting phase of its growth journey. I look forward to leveraging my experience in hospitality finance and strategic planning to strengthen the organisation’s financial framework, drive efficiencies and contribute to creating sustainable long-term value for the company and its stakeholders.” 

In his new role, Milind will oversee the company’s financial strategy and operations, working closely with the leadership team to strengthen financial performance, enhance operational efficiencies, manage risks and align financial priorities with KHIL’s broader business objectives.

With his extensive experience and proven track record in hospitality finance, Milind Wadekar is well positioned to contribute to Kamat Hotels India Limited’s continued growth and strengthen its financial leadership as the company moves

Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Rajajinagar appoints Manisha Havle as Director of Sales

Manisha brings hospitality sales and business development experience across Marriott International and Radisson Hotel Group.

Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Rajajinagar announces the appointment of Manisha Havle as its new Director of Sales. Bringing extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Manisha will spearhead the hotel’s sales strategy, business development initiatives, and revenue growth efforts in her new role.

Career with Marriott International

Manisha’s appointment marks another significant milestone in her professional journey with Marriott International. Prior to joining Fairfield by Marriott Rajajinagar, she served at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Serviced Apartments Pune, where she contributed to driving business performance and strengthening market relationships.

Experience across hospitality brands

Her hospitality career also includes experience with Radisson Hotel Group, where she developed a strong foundation in sales and business development before continuing her career with Marriott International. Over the years, her diverse experience across leading hospitality brands has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, customer engagement, and commercial strategy.

Focus on sales and business development

An MBA in Marketing, Manisha combines her academic expertise with extensive industry experience and a strong understanding of business development and revenue management. In her new role, she will focus on strengthening the hotel’s market presence, building strategic partnerships, and identifying new opportunities for sustainable business growth.

Beyond hospitality

Beyond her professional pursuits, Manisha enjoys gardening, exploring new destinations, and contributing to community service. She believes in embracing new experiences, building meaningful connections, and creating opportunities to give back to the community.

With her proven expertise, strategic approach, and passion for the hospitality industry, Manisha is poised to play a key role in driving the continued growth and success of Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Rajajinagar.

Grand Mercure Bangalore appoints Geena George as Associate Director of People & Culture

Geena brings over 15 years of hospitality HR experience across India and the Middle East to her new role.

Grand Mercure Bangalore has appointed Geena George as Associate Director of People & Culture, strengthening its leadership team as the hotel continues to build on its people first approach to hospitality.

Experience across hospitality HR

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality human resources across India and the Middle East, Geena brings expertise across talent acquisition, learning and development, organisational development, employee engagement and performance management. Over the course of her career, she has worked with leading hospitality brands including Radisson Hotel Group, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, The Raviz Hotels & Resorts and Accor, where she has contributed to building high performing teams, nurturing talent and creating engaging workplace cultures.

Previous role

Before joining Grand Mercure Bangalore, Geena served as People & Culture Manager at Grand Mercure Ahmedabad GIFT City, where she drove learning and development programmes, employee engagement initiatives and structured retention strategies, supporting greater workforce stability. Her earlier roles at Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road, Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru and Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi gave her experience across HR transformation, leadership development, CSR and employee recognition, while supporting colleagues and teams through different stages of organisational growth.

Commenting on the appointment, Parag Shah, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bangalore, said, “Hospitality has always been a people-led business. While guests experience the warmth of our service, it is our associates who make those moments possible every single day. Geena brings a thoughtful approach to developing talent, strengthening engagement and creating an environment where our teams feel supported to do their best work. We are delighted to welcome her to Grand Mercure Bangalore and look forward to the value her leadership will bring to our people and the hotel.”

Geena George on her new role

Speaking on her new role, Geena George said, “What has always drawn me to hospitality is the opportunity to work closely with people and create workplaces where they feel valued, heard and encouraged to grow. I’m excited to join Grand Mercure Bangalore and contribute towards building an environment that invests in continuous learning, meaningful engagement and leadership development, while supporting our associates in delivering exceptional guest experiences.”

The LaLiT Chandigarh appoints Rahul Chauhan as Resident Manager

Rahul brings over two decades of experience across luxury hospitality, with expertise spanning hotel operations, food & beverage and guest experience.

The LaLiT Chandigarh announces the appointment of Rahul Chauhan as its Resident Manager. Bringing over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Rahul joins the leadership team with extensive expertise in hotel operations, food & beverage management, revenue optimisation, guest experience, and team development.

Career and experience

Rahul has built an accomplished career with leading hospitality brands including Accor, IHG, Taj Hotels, Marriott, Radisson Hotels, Sarovar Hotels, and Lebua Hotels. Throughout his career, he has successfully led hotel operations, managed multiple pre-opening projects, driven operational excellence, and consistently delivered strong business performance across renowned luxury and upscale properties.

Prior to joining The LaLiT Chandigarh, he served as Executive Assistant Manager – Food & Beverage at Grand Mercure Convention Center Agra, where he spearheaded strategic F&B operations, enhanced guest satisfaction, strengthened service standards, and led a team of over 80 hospitality professionals.

New role

In his new role as Resident Manager, Rahul will oversee the hotel’s day-to-day operations, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, driving operational efficiencies, strengthening service excellence, and supporting the property’s continued growth.

Rohit Kapoor, General Manager, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rahul Chauhan to The LaLiT Chandigarh. His rich industry experience, operational expertise, and people-first leadership approach make him a valuable addition to our leadership team. We are confident he will further strengthen the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences while driving operational excellence.”

Rahul Chauhan on his appointment

Rahul Chauhan, Resident Manager, The LaLiT Chandigarh, added, “I am honoured to join The LaLiT Chandigarh and be part of a brand renowned for its legacy of luxury, innovation, and inclusive hospitality. I look forward to working closely with the team to further elevate guest experiences, strengthen operational excellence, and contribute to the hotel’s continued success.”

Rosetta Hospitality appoints Sundeep Shenava as Group Vice President of Human Capital

Bengaluru, August 2026: Rosetta Hospitality is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Sundeep Shenava as Group Vice President of Human Capital, reinforcing Rosetta by Ferns’ commitment to building a strong, people-centric organisation as it continues to strengthen its organisational capabilities and support the next phase of growth.

Mr. Shenava brings over three decades of experience in human capital leadership across hospitality, real estate and allied industries. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership positions with Royal Orchid Hotels, Mantri Developers and MRG Hospitality, following earlier tenures with The Taj and Oberoi groups.

A significant part of his career was spent with The Leela, where he led the Human Resources team at The Leela Palace Bengaluru and played an instrumental role in establishing the Human Capital framework for the Group’s properties in Kovalam, Udaipur and Chennai. He is also a law graduate who holds professional qualifications in Personnel Management, Industrial Relations and Training & Development.

At Rosetta Hospitality, Mr. Shenava will lead the Group’s Human Capital function, with responsibility for talent acquisition, payroll governance, performance management, employee lifecycle management, incentive and reward frameworks, and organisational capability building. While his principal focus will remain Rosetta Hospitality, he will also extend strategic Human Capital leadership across the Group’s real estate vertical – Ferns Estates and Developers.

His appointment comes at a significant stage in Rosetta Hospitality’s growth journey, as the organisation continues to strengthen its leadership team and institutionalise key business functions to support its long-term expansion.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Jai Sreedhar, Joint Managing Director & CEO, Rosetta Hospitality, said, “We are delighted to welcome Sundeep to Rosetta Hospitality. As we continue to grow across hospitality and allied businesses, building a strong people-first organisation remains central to our long-term vision. Sundeep brings an exceptional depth of experience in creating high-performing teams, strengthening organisational culture and establishing robust Human Capital frameworks. We look forward to his leadership as we continue to invest in our people and build a future-ready organisation.”

Sharing his thoughts on the new journey, Mr. Sundeep Shenava said, “I am excited to join Rosetta Hospitality at such an important phase of its growth. The organisation’s focus on creating meaningful experiences extends beyond its guests to its people, making it a compelling opportunity to contribute to. I look forward to nurturing talent, building scalable people practices, and supporting the Group’s continued growth across its diverse businesses.”

With this appointment, Rosetta Hospitality reaffirms its commitment to building an organisation led by visionary leaders who champion its people, purpose and long-term sustainable growth. Under Mr. Shenava's leadership, the Human Capital function will play a pivotal role in attracting, developing and retaining talent to support the Group’s long-term strategic growth.

IHG Hotels appoints Neelabh Chugh as General Manager of The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula

Neelabh brings over 29 years of hospitality experience and will lead the pre-opening of India and South West Asia’s first Vignette Collection hotel.

The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula, Vignette Collection by IHG Hotels & Resorts announces the appointment of Neelabh Chugh as General Manager.

New role

In his new role, Neelabh will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, while leading the property’s strategic direction and commercial performance as it prepares to welcome guests as the first Vignette Collection hotel in India and South West Asia.

29 years of experience

Neelabh joins The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula, Vignette Collection by IHG with over 29 years of hospitality experience across leading international and Indian hotel brands. Over the course of his career, he has been associated with Marriott Hotels, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, Taj Group of Hotels, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and IHG Hotels & Resorts, holding leadership positions across Delhi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and Ludhiana. His experience spans hotel operations, pre-openings, and hotel repositioning projects.

Pre-opening experience

An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management, Lucknow, and the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, Neelabh has successfully led three hotel pre-openings and two hotel repositioning projects during his career. His appointment at The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula, Vignette Collection by IHG marks his fourth hotel pre-opening.

Neelabh Chugh on his appointment

Speaking on his appointment, Neelabh Chugh, General Manager, The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula, Vignette Collection by IHG, said: “I am delighted to join The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula, Vignette Collection and be part of a hotel that represents a significant addition to IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio in the region. As we prepare to welcome our first guests, our focus will be on building a strong team culture, delivering thoughtful and consistent guest experiences, and bringing the individuality of Vignette Collection to life. I look forward to working alongside the team to establish the hotel as a preferred destination in the Chandigarh Tricity region.”

Le Méridien Gurgaon appoints Divya Dabral as Director of Human Resources

Divya brings 12 years of experience across Marriott brands and multiple hotel pre-openings to her new role

Le Méridien Gurgaon announces the appointment of Divya Dabral as Director of Human Resources.

Career and experience

Divya’s career in Human Resources began twelve years ago as a Management Trainee with the erstwhile Starwood Hotels, where she built a strong foundation in recruitment, employee engagement and performance management. Since then she has grown into a seasoned HR leader, holding key roles across Marriott brands including Sheraton, JW Marriott, Westin, Le Méridien and Marriott Executive Apartments. She has successfully led multiple hotel pre-openings, most recently Marriott Executive Apartments Bengaluru, UB City, in her last assignment.

Divya is passionate about talent acquisition, diversity and inclusion, and employee engagement. Away from work, she is a keen explorer of new food and beverage spots, enjoys discovering different cuisines, and unwinding with friends over good food and great conversation.

Suman Gahlawat, General Manager, Le Méridien Gurgaon “We are delighted to welcome Divya to the leadership team. Her depth of experience and her genuine belief in nurturing talent will be invaluable as we continue to invest in our people and our culture.”

Divya Dabral on her appointment

On her appointment, Divya Dabral said “I am thrilled to join Le Méridien Gurgaon. I look forward to working closely with the team to build on the hotel’s reputation as a rewarding place to grow a career.”

Grand Mercure Bangalore Welcomes Geena George as Associate Director of People & Culture

Bengaluru, August 2026: Grand Mercure Bangalore has appointed Geena George as Associate Director of People & Culture, strengthening its leadership team as the hotel continues to build on its people first approach to hospitality.

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality human resources across India and the Middle East, Geena brings expertise across talent acquisition, learning and development, organisational development, employee engagement and performance management. Over the course of her career, she has worked with leading hospitality brands including Radisson Hotel Group, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, The Raviz Hotels & Resorts and Accor, where she has contributed to building high performing teams, nurturing talent and creating engaging workplace cultures.

Before joining Grand Mercure Bangalore, Geena served as People & Culture Manager at Grand Mercure Ahmedabad GIFT City, where she drove learning and development programmes, employee engagement initiatives and structured retention strategies, supporting greater workforce stability. Her earlier roles at Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road, Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru and Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi gave her experience across HR transformation, leadership development, CSR and employee recognition, while supporting colleagues and teams through different stages of organisational growth.

Commenting on the appointment, Parag Shah, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bangalore, said, "Hospitality has always been a people-led business. While guests experience the warmth of our service, it is our associates who make those moments possible every single day. Geena brings a thoughtful approach to developing talent, strengthening engagement and creating an environment where our teams feel supported to do their best work. We are delighted to welcome her to Grand Mercure Bangalore and look forward to the value her leadership will bring to our people and the hotel."

Speaking on her new role, Geena George said, "What has always drawn me to hospitality is the opportunity to work closely with people and create workplaces where they feel valued, heard and encouraged to grow. I'm excited to join Grand Mercure Bangalore and contribute towards building an environment that invests in continuous learning, meaningful engagement and leadership development, while supporting our associates in delivering exceptional guest experiences."

Geena's appointment reflects Grand Mercure Bangalore's continued commitment to nurturing talent, strengthening leadership from within and fostering a workplace culture that enables its teams to thrive while delivering the thoughtful hospitality the brand is known for.

Mazen Allam named as area general manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh and The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah

He will oversee both properties, helping to enhance the hotel’s local and international reputation

Mazen Allam has been appointed as the area general manager for The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh and The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah.

Allam, who joined as general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh in 2023, has now expanded his role to oversee both The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh and The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah. He will oversee both properties in Saudi Arabia, driving operational excellence, commercial performance, talent development and exceptional guest experiences across both properties.

During his time at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Mazen has helped strengthen the hotel’s position as a landmark in the city, helping to enhance the hotel’s reputation among both local and international travellers.

Le Meridien Surat appoints Manoj Jangid as General Manager

Manoj brings over two decades of hospitality experience across luxury hotel brands to his new role.

Le Meridien Surat announces the appointment of Manoj Jangid as its General Manager. An accomplished hospitality leader with over two decades of experience across globally acclaimed luxury hotel brands, Manoj assumes the role at a defining phase in the hotel’s growth journey. He will spearhead the hotel’s vision of delivering elevated guest experiences while strengthening its position as one of Surat’s leading premium hospitality destinations.

Career and experience

With a career spanning some of the industry’s most respected names, Manoj brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, commercial performance, food and beverage excellence, revenue optimisation, and organisational leadership. He has further honed his leadership capabilities through the prestigious Marriott Leadership Development Programme and Accor Hotels Leadership Development Programme

Prior to joining Le Meridien Surat, Manoj was associated with Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, and Sofitel Mumbai BKC, where he gained extensive experience across hotel operations and guest experience. His contributions to the hospitality industry have earned him widespread recognition.

Focus at Le Meridien Surat

In his new role, Manoj will focus on advancing operational excellence across every touchpoint of the guest journey while driving commercial performance, nurturing talent, and reinforcing a culture rooted in innovation, collaboration.

Manoj Jangid on his appointment

Speaking on his appointment, Manoj Jangid, General Manager, Le Meridien Surat, said: “It is both an honour and an exciting opportunity to lead Le Meridien Surat at such a significant milestone in its journey. I believe that exceptional hospitality extends far beyond beautiful spaces; it is about creating meaningful connections, inspiring experiences, and lasting memories. My vision is to position the hotel as a destination where the cultural richness of Surat is seamlessly reflected through thoughtfully curated experiences, intuitive service, and a genuine sense of place. Alongside elevating the stay experience, we also aspire to establish Le Meridien Surat as a preferred venue for weddings, social celebrations, and milestone occasions, creating bespoke events that reflect elegance, sophistication, and impeccable hospitality. Together with our passionate team, we look forward to setting new benchmarks in hospitality while delivering experiences that are warm, authentic, and truly memorable.

Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar appoints Abhirath Sah as General Manager

Abhirath brings over 19 years of experience across hotel operations, sales, marketing, revenue management, and strategic leadership.

Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa welcomes Abhirath Sah as its new General Manager, bringing over 19 years of experience across hotel operations, sales, marketing, revenue management, and strategic leadership.

Career journey

Abhirath brings a dynamic leadership journey across some of India’s leading hospitality brands, most recently serving as Director of Operations at Marriott Suites Pune. He previously spent nearly five years as Director of Sales & Marketing at JW Marriott Pune, with earlier leadership roles across The Westin Hyderabad, Sheraton Hyderabad, The Leela Palace Hotels & Resorts, Trident Chennai, Hyatt Hyderabad, and Carlson Hospitality Marketing India.

New role

In his new role, Abhirath will lead the resort’s overall operations and strategic direction, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, driving business performance, and strengthening Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar’s position as a leading hospitality destination.

With a diverse career spanning operations, sales, marketing and commercial leadership, Abhirath brings a well-rounded perspective to his new role, positioning him to lead the team and build on the resort’s strong foundation for continued growth.

Abhirath Sah on the appointment

“I am delighted to take on this new responsibility at Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar,” said Abhirath. “I look forward to working closely with the team to create memorable guest experiences, build on the property’s strengths, and drive sustainable growth.

Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa Welcomes Sofikul Alam as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager

Delhi NCR, August 2026: Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, part of Marriott International, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sofikul Alam as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager, further strengthening the resort's food and beverage leadership team and its commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.

In his new role, Sofikul will support the resort's food and beverage operations across restaurants, banquets and beverage services, with a focus on ensuring operational excellence, service consistency and memorable guest experiences. Working closely with the food and beverage leadership team, he will oversee outlet operations, banquet coordination, beverage management and day-to-day service delivery while contributing to the continued growth of the resort's dining portfolio.

With over 12 years of experience across leading luxury hospitality brands, Sofikul brings extensive expertise in food and beverage operations, outlet management and guest experience. Having worked across India, the Maldives and the UAE, he has built a strong reputation for delivering high service standards while successfully managing diverse dining concepts and high-performing teams.

Over the course of his career, Sofikul has held food and beverage leadership positions with Baros Maldives, Pullman & Novotel New Delhi, W Goa, Andaz New Delhi, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, and The Address Marina Dubai. His experience spans beverage programme management, multi-outlet operations, banquet execution, guest engagement and team leadership, equipping him with a well-rounded understanding of luxury hospitality across international markets.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Sofikul Alam, Assistant Food & Beverage Manager, Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, said, "It is a privilege to join Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa and become part of a team known for its commitment to hospitality. I look forward to bringing my experience to the resort while working collaboratively to deliver warm, thoughtful service and memorable dining experiences for every guest."

Known for his hands-on leadership style and strong operational expertise, Sofikul's appointment marks an important step in Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa's continued focus on elevating its food and beverage offerings. His global experience and passion for creating memorable guest experiences will further strengthen the resort's commitment to delivering world-class hospitality and distinctive dining experiences in the Delhi NCR market.

M Square by Monday Premium appoints Nitin Saxena as General Manager

The hospitality professional brings over 13 years of experience across hotel operations, guest satisfaction and team leadership.

M Square by Monday Premium, Nagpur, announces the appointment of Nitin Saxena as its General Manager. A seasoned hospitality professional with over 13 years of industry experience, Nitin steps into his new role with a strong track record in hotel operations, guest satisfaction, and team leadership.

Career journey

Nitin holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management and Catering and has built a distinguished career spanning over 13 years across renowned hospitality brands. Prior to his appointment as General Manager, he served as Operations Manager at M Square by Monday Premium, where he played a pivotal role in streamlining operations, enhancing service standards, and driving overall operational excellence. Recognising his outstanding performance, the management promoted him from Operations Manager to General Manager, reflecting the confidence placed in his leadership and commitment to excellence.

Previous experience

Before joining Monday Hotels, Nitin was associated with Spree Hotels, Udaipur, where he further strengthened his expertise in hotel operations and leadership. His consistent performance and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences have been key milestones in his successful hospitality career.

New role

In his new role as General Manager, Nitin will oversee the overall operations of M Square by Monday Premium, Nagpur, with a focus on elevating guest satisfaction, strengthening operational efficiency, fostering team development, and driving the property’s continued growth in the region.

Management’s perspective

Speaking on the appointment, Mitesh Kadam, Co Founder, said, “We are delighted to appoint Nitin Saxena as the General Manager of M Square by Monday Premium, Nagpur. His proven leadership, operational expertise, and passion for hospitality make him the ideal choice to lead the hotel into its next phase of growth. We are confident that under his leadership, the property will continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences while achieving new operational milestones.”

Nitin Saxena on the appointment

Expressing his enthusiasm, Nitin Saxena said, “I am honoured to take on this new responsibility at M Square by Monday Premium, Nagpur. I look forward to working closely with the team to further enhance our guest experiences, strengthen service excellence, and contribute to the continued success of the hotel and the Monday Hotels brand.”

The Chambers brings Two-Michelin-Star Chef Florence Dalia to India

The French chef will host an exclusive culinary residency at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, and Taj Mahal, Delhi, from August 5–9, 2026.

As part of Rendezvous, The Chambers’ signature platform for curating exceptional member experiences, The Culinary Chronicles brings globally acclaimed chefs to India through immersive gastronomic collaborations that celebrate culinary artistry, storytelling and craftsmanship.

The latest edition welcomes Two-Michelin-Star French Chef Florence Dalia, who will present an exclusive culinary residency at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, and Taj Mahal, Delhi from 5th to 9th August 2026, offering members an opportunity to experience her distinctive culinary philosophy shaped by decades of international excellence.

Chef Florence Dalia

Chef Florence Dalia has worked across France, Asia and Australia during her culinary career. She has held leadership roles with the Joël Robuchon Group, Amber at Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Taipei, where the restaurant earned its second Michelin Star during her tenure. She also founded 16 by Flo, a Michelin-recommended chef’s table, and Le Cep, a French bistro in Taipei.

The Chambers experience

Designed as an extension of Rendezvous, The Culinary Chronicles celebrates internationally renowned chefs through thoughtfully curated experiences, giving members rare access to celebrated culinary talent and the stories behind their craft. Each edition brings together exceptional cuisine, cultural exchange and meaningful interactions in an intimate setting.

Curated menu

For the residency, Chef Florence has curated a menu featuring French techniques alongside influences from Asia and Australia. The menu includes Gillardeau Oyster with Cucumber and Yuzu Kosho Granita, Hokkaido Scallop with Burnt Leek and Vanilla Beurre Blanc, Brittany Blue Lobster with Shellfish Bisque, Miso and Australian Finger Lime, A5 Wagyu with Café de Paris Butter and Burgundy Jus, and Peach, Almond and Verbena for dessert. The dining experience also includes paired handcrafted beverages.

Management’s perspective

Speaking on the occasion, Ritesh Sharma, General Manager, The Taj Mahal Palace, said, “Through Rendezvous, The Chambers has consistently created extraordinary experiences that bring together global icons across diverse fields for our members. The Culinary Chronicles builds on this legacy by celebrating internationally acclaimed chefs whose culinary philosophies embody artistry, authenticity and innovation. We are delighted to welcome Chef Florence Dalia and look forward to offering our members an unforgettable gastronomic journey inspired by her remarkable expertise.”

Holiday Inn Express Gurugram Sector 50 appoints Raman Sharma as General Manager

The hospitality professional brings over two decades of experience across hotel operations, sales, revenue management and commercial strategy.

Holiday Inn Express Gurugram Sector 50 has announced the appointment of Raman Sharma as General Manager. In his new role, he will lead the hotel’s operations, commercial strategy, guest experience and team performance.

Professional background

Sharma brings over 20 years of hospitality experience, spanning hotel operations, sales and marketing, revenue management, and client relationships. He has worked across Delhi, Gurugram and Noida and has held leadership assignments with several established hospitality brands.

He has been associated with IHG since 2013 and joined Holiday Inn Express in 2018 as Director of Sales & Marketing. At Holiday Inn Express, his role extended well beyond sales. He worked closely on key accounts, pricing, inventory and the hotel’s revenue performance.

More recently, between October 2025 and April 2026, he served as Taskforce Hotel Manager, first at Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida and later at Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport. These assignments placed him at the centre of hotel operations, covering rooms, food and beverage, finance, engineering and commercial performance.

Management’s perspective

Commenting on the appointment, Priyanka Ahluwalia – Cluster General Manager, Holiday Inn Express SAMHI Portfolio, said, “Raman brings several years of experience with IHG, along with a strong understanding of the Holiday Inn Express brand and the operational expertise required to successfully manage a limited-service hotel. His commercial acumen, operational experience, and in-depth understanding of the Delhi NCR market position him well to lead the hotel into its next phase of growth.”

Career journey

Before joining Holiday Inn Express, he served as Director of Sales at Holiday Inn Noida. His earlier assignments included senior sales and events roles at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel Noida, Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel, Crowne Plaza Today Okhla and InterContinental Eros Nehru Place. This breadth of experience has given him exposure to corporate sales, revenue strategy, food and beverage operations, events and people management.

Raman Sharma on the appointment

Speaking on his appointment, Raman Sharma said, “I am thrilled to take on the role of General Manager at Holiday Inn Express Gurugram Sector 50. Having worked with the brand for several years, I understand the importance of keeping the guest experience simple, reliable and consistent. My emphasis will be on working with the team, listening closely to guest feedback and strengthening both operational and commercial performance.”

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

The hospitality professional brings international experience across luxury hotels and resorts in India, Thailand, Japan, the UAE and the Maldives.

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur announces the appointment of Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager.

Professional background

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.

Management’s perspective

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.”

New role

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.

Siddharth Manjeshwar on the appointment

Speaking on his appointment, 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.”

Sula Vineyards appoints Chaitanya Rathi as Non-Executive Director

Chaitanya Rathi, former COO of Sula Vineyards, rejoins the Company, this time as a member of the Board, bringing over two decades of experience across consumer businesses, alcobev, hospitality, investments, and entrepreneurship. 

Mumbai, August , 2026: Sula Vineyards Limited, India’s leading wine producer, today announced the appointment of Chaitanya Rathi as an Additional Non-Executive Non-Independent Director, effective August 6th, 2026.

The appointment marks Mr. Rathi’s return to Sula, where he spent over a decade across two leadership tenures and played an integral role in several key chapters of the Company’s growth journey. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer from 2019 to 2023, overseeing multiple business functions and leading a team of more than 400 members, while also playing a key leadership role in Sula’s successful Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2022. 

His association with Sula began in 2006. During his first tenure from 2006 to 2013, he contributed to the Company’s formative years and was instrumental in establishing and scaling its hospitality and wine tourism business. Today, Sula welcomes over 400,000 visitors annually and has built a growing wine tourism and hospitality footprint.

Commenting on the appointment, Rajeev Samant, CEO, Sula Vineyards, said, “Chaitanya has played an important role in Sula’s journey and brings a deep understanding of our business and culture. Over the years, he has helped shape our wine tourism business and played a key role in Sula’s IPO journey. We are very pleased to welcome him back to Sula, this time on the Board, and I am confident that his entrepreneurial mindset and diverse experience will bring valuable perspective as we take Sula into its next phase of growth.”

Commenting on his appointment, Chaitanya Rathi said, “Sula continues to be very close to me, having been an important part of my journey for many years, and I am delighted to return in this new role. I look forward to bringing the perspective and experience I have gained from working with and investing in diverse consumer businesses to support Sula’s next phase of growth. I am excited to work alongside Rajeev and the Board to contribute meaningfully to the Company’s journey and create long-term value for all stakeholders.” 

Beyond Sula, Mr. Rathi has held senior operating and investment roles across high-growth businesses and has served as a board member and strategic advisor to several companies. He is currently the Founder of Searchlight ETA, an Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) and Search Fund platform in India.

With over two decades of experience spanning consumer businesses, alcobev, hospitality, investments, and entrepreneurship, he brings a broad strategic and commercial perspective to Sula's Board. His experience across business strategy, scaling operations, investments, and value creation will support Sula as it strengthens its core wine business, expands its wine tourism and hospitality footprint, explores new growth opportunities and continues to create long-term value for its stakeholders.

Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad appoints Praveen Sharma as Hotel Manager

The hospitality veteran brings over 26 years of experience in hotel operations, business development and strategic planning.

Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad announces the appointment of Praveen Sharma as Hotel Manager.

Professional background

A seasoned hospitality professional with more than 26 years of experience, Praveen brings a diverse background spanning hotel operations, sales, business development, strategic planning, and business growth. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for driving operational excellence, delivering sustainable commercial performance, and developing high-performing teams.

Praveen holds a Ph.D. in Tourism from Himachal Pradesh University and a Certification in General Management from IIM Lucknow. Prior to joining Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad, he spent a significant part of his career with Marriott International, where he held various leadership and pre-opening roles across multiple properties.

New role

In his role, Praveen will lead the hotel’s strategic and operational agenda, with a focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening market presence, fostering a people-first culture, and driving long-term business success.

Management’s perspective

“We are delighted to welcome Praveen to Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad. His extensive industry experience, proven leadership capabilities, and strong track record of building successful teams make him exceptionally well positioned to lead the hotel. We are confident that his vision, passion for hospitality, and commitment to excellence will play a pivotal role in strengthening the hotel’s presence in the market and creating memorable experiences for guests and associates alike,” said Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, Development & Operations – South Asia, Marriott International.

Known for his collaborative leadership style and ability to create high-performing cultures, Praveen has consistently delivered transformational growth while building strong relationships with guests, owners, associates, and business partners.

Praveen Sharma on the appointment

Commenting on his appointment, Praveen Sharma said, “I am honored to be part of the team at Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad. This hotel represents an exciting opportunity to create exceptional guest experiences while building a strong culture rooted in Marriott’s values. I look forward to working alongside our talented associates, ownership team, and stakeholders to establish the hotel as a preferred destination for business travelers, social celebrations, and memorable hospitality experiences in the region.

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel Strengthens Operational Leadership with Stephen George’s Elevation

Bengaluru, August 2026: 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.

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.

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.

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."

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."

With this elevation, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel continues to reinforce its commitment to developing homegrown leadership and strengthening operational excellence across the hotel.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore appoints Joydeep Acharya as Director of Services

The hospitality professional brings over 25 years of experience in rooms operations, housekeeping and hotel quality across global luxury hotel brands.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore announces the appointment of Joydeep Acharya as Director of Services. With over 25 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Acharya brings deep expertise in Rooms Division operations, housekeeping, and hotel quality.

Professional background

Throughout his career, Acharya has held leadership positions with renowned hospitality brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Marriott International, IHCL, Accor Hotels, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), ITC Hotels, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Oberoi Hotels & Resorts.

He has led pre-opening projects, operational teams, and quality initiatives across multiple properties, earning recognition for driving operational consistency and guest satisfaction. During his previous tenure at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, he led the hotel to some of the highest brand audit scores for cleanliness in the Asia Pacific region and has received multiple leadership awards over the course of his career.

Director of Services’ perspective

“Luxury hospitality is shaped by the consistency of everyday operations and the commitment of the people behind them. Returning to The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore is an opportunity to build on that culture. I look forward to working alongside the team as we continue to strengthen that culture and create experiences that guests remember long after their stay,” said Joydeep Acharya, Director of Services, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore.

Management’s perspective

Welcoming Acharya to the leadership team, Reuben Kataria, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, said, “Joydeep’s understanding of hotel operations, combined with his experience across some of the industry’s leading brands, makes him an invaluable addition to our leadership team. His approach to developing people and driving operational excellence aligns closely with the standards we uphold at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, and we look forward to the perspective he brings to the hotel.”