Lotachukwu Monyei named as director of PR and marketing at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi

She will drive awareness for the 400-room property in the UAE capital

Lotachukwu Monyei has been appointed as director of PR and marketing at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi.

Monyei will be tasked with strengthening the hotel’s brand presence and reputation, leading Marriott Hotel Al Forsan’s PR, brand and marketing strategy.

She has held positions at Le Méridien, Four Points by Sheraton, Aloft, Element and Courtyard by Marriott throughout her career. In her most recent role as senior manager – marketing and communications for the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel Complex, she supported communications across five properties.

“We are delighted to welcome Lota to the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan family. Her creativity, strategic thinking and proven record across the Marriott portfolio make her the ideal person to elevate our brand and tell our story to the region and beyond,” said Catalina Susan, general manager, Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi.

Moyei has twice featured on Hotelier Middle East’s Marketing Power List in 2024 and 2025 for her achievements at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers.

In her new role she will drive awareness for the 400-room Abu Dhabi property, as well as the dining, events and leisure offerings.

Monyei said, “Every hotel has a story and Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi, is one of energy, adventure and warmth. I can’t wait to help tell it. I’m joining an exceptional team and my hope is to build something lasting for our guests, our partners, and the team I work alongside every day.”

Novotel Ahmedabad appoints Vijit Sarna as Room Division Manager

Vijit brings over a decade of hospitality experience, including more than 10 years with Accor across rooms operations and front office roles.

Novotel Ahmedabad announces the appointment of Vijit Sarna as Room Division Manager, further strengthening the hotel’s leadership team as it continues to enhance operational excellence and deliver seamless, personalised guest experiences.

With over a decade of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Vijit brings with him a strong understanding of rooms division operations, front office management, guest relations, team leadership, and service excellence across prominent hospitality environments. His career reflects a steady progression through operational and managerial roles, supported by a strong focus on guest satisfaction, team development, and efficient hotel operations.

Experience at Grand Mercure Gandhinagar GIFT City

Prior to joining Novotel Ahmedabad, Vijit served as Front Office Manager at Grand Mercure Gandhinagar GIFT City, where he was responsible for overseeing front office operations, driving service standards, managing guest experiences, and leading teams in a dynamic business and hospitality environment.

A decade with Accor

His professional journey with Accor spans over a decade, beginning in 2014 as a Duty Manager. Over the years, he progressed through key leadership positions including Assistant Front Office Manager and Front Office Manager, gaining extensive experience across various Accor properties in Maharashtra and developing a strong foundation in rooms operations, guest engagement, service recovery, team management, and operational coordination.

New responsibilities

In his new role as Room Division Manager at Novotel Ahmedabad, Vijit will oversee the hotel’s Rooms Division operations with a focus on maintaining high service standards, enhancing guest satisfaction, strengthening operational efficiency, and developing high-performing teams. He will also work closely with various departments to ensure a seamless guest journey and consistent delivery of the Novotel experience.

Leadership commentary

Commenting on the appointment, Nikhil Chandra, General Manager, Novotel Ahmedabad, said: “Vijit brings with him a strong understanding of rooms operations, a proven track record of progressive leadership, and a genuine commitment to guest experience. His extensive journey with Accor and his experience across diverse hospitality environments make him a valuable addition to our leadership team. We are delighted to welcome Vijit to Novotel Ahmedabad and look forward to his contribution towards strengthening our operational excellence and creating memorable experiences for our guests.”

Vijit Sarna on his new role

Speaking on his new role, Vijit Sarna, Room Division Manager, Novotel Ahmedabad, said: “I am delighted to be joining Novotel Ahmedabad and taking on this new responsibility. I look forward to working alongside the team to further strengthen our service culture, enhance the guest journey, and create experiences that reflect the warmth and consistency that Novotel is known for. I am excited about this new chapter and the opportunities ahead.”

Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport appoints Manas Lal as Hotel Manager

Manas brings over 20 years of experience across luxury and premium hotel operations, with expertise in Rooms Division, hotel management and revenue enhancement.

Manas Lal has been appointed as the Hotel Manager for Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport, effective from 27-08-2026. He is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience across luxury and premium hotel operations, with strong expertise in Rooms Division, hotel management, revenue enhancement, and operational excellence.

Experience across international brands

Before joining Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport as Hotel Manager, Manas served as Hotel Manager at Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island, UAE, following his tenure as Director of Operations and Director of Rooms at the same property. His career also includes leadership roles with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels in Pune, and Sofitel The Palm Resort & Spa in Dubai.

Manas Lal on his appointment

I believe great hospitality begins with genuine connections,” said Manas. “My goal is to create an environment where our associates feel inspired and our guests feel truly valued at every moment of their stay.”

Having built his career with leading international hospitality brands, Manas brings diverse operational experience from Jumeirah, Marriott, Accor and progressing through roles including Front Office Manager, Assistant Director of Rooms, Director of Rooms, Director of Operations, and Hotel Manager.

Focus on guest and team experience

Known for his commitment to guest satisfaction, team development, and operational excellence, Manas is passionate about creating exceptional hospitality experiences and looks forward to bringing his leadership, expertise, and vision to Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport.

Black Rock Hotels appoints Abhay Kumar as Cluster Associate Director of Sales

Abhay brings over nine years of hospitality sales experience across luxury weddings, MICE, corporate business and travel trade.

Black Rock Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Abhay Kumar as Cluster Associate Director of Sales, reinforcing the company’s commercial leadership as it continues to expand its presence across Rajasthan‘s leisure, MICE and destination wedding markets.

In his new role, Abhay will lead the sales and business development strategy for Pushkara Resort & Spa, Ajmer, while supporting the commercial growth of Black Rock Hotels & Resorts’ expanding portfolio.

Experience across hospitality brands

With over nine years of experience in hospitality sales, Abhay brings expertise in business development, client relationship management, revenue generation and strategic partnerships. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the country’s leading hospitality brands, including Fairmont & Raffles Jaipur (Accor), Marriott International, Hyatt Hotels and ITC Hotels, where he managed luxury weddings, MICE, corporate business, travel trade and key account relationships.

Focus on sales and business development

His experience spans luxury hotel pre-openings, large-format conferences, destination weddings and revenue-driven sales strategies, making him well positioned to support Black Rock’s continued focus on experiential hospitality and event-led destinations.

Leadership commentary

Commenting on the appointment, Anshul Bhargava, Founder, Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, said, “As Black Rock enters its next phase of growth, strengthening our commercial leadership is a key priority. Abhay brings a strong understanding of luxury hospitality sales, MICE, weddings and relationship management, having worked with some of the industry’s most respected brands. His experience will be instrumental in expanding the market presence of Pushkara Resort & Spa while supporting our broader vision of building one of Rajasthan’s leading hospitality management companies. We are delighted to welcome him to the Black Rock family and look forward to the energy, ideas and leadership he brings to the team.”

Abhay Kumar on his appointment

Speaking on his appointment, Abhay Kumar said, “I’m excited to join Black Rock Hotels & Resorts at such an important stage of its journey. The company has built a strong reputation for managing distinctive hospitality destinations, and I look forward to contributing to the growth of Pushkara Resort & Spa while strengthening relationships with corporate, MICE, wedding and travel partners. It is an exciting opportunity to be part of a company that is expanding with a clear long-term vision.”

Expanding across Rajasthan

Black Rock Hotels & Resorts has been steadily expanding its hospitality footprint across Rajasthan, with a portfolio spanning destination resorts, luxury leisure hotels and wildlife hospitality. The appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in strengthening its commercial capabilities as it scales its operations across key leisure markets

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels appoints Rohit Kakra as Chief Operating Officer for Flurys

Rohit brings over 23 years of F&B retail experience across Costa Coffee, Pizza Hut, Awfis, Compass Group India and other brands.

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited (ASPHL) has appointed Rohit Kakra as Chief Operating Officer for Flurys.

In his role, Kakra will oversee the operations of the Company’s iconic bakery & confectionary brand Flurys. Based out of the Delhi office, his primary focus areas include strengthening operational efficiencies across the brand, enhancing overall performance metrics, and driving the company’s long-term strategic objectives.

Experience in F&B retail

With over 23 years of extensive experience in the F&B retail sector, Kakra brings proven expertise in scaling retail footprints and optimizing complex operational structures. Over the course of his career, he has held prominent leadership roles at Costa Coffee and Pizza Hut, most recently as COO for Costa Coffee at Devyani International Limited.

Prior to this, he held the positions of Vice President – Operations at Awfis Space Solutions Limited, General Manager – Operations at Compass Group India where he managed key accounts including Google and Deloitte. He has also been associated with Paradise Group, Jubilant Food Works and Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt Limited (McDonald’s India).

Leadership commentary

Commenting on the appointment, Vijay Dewan, Managing Director, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rohit to Flurys at a pivotal stage in the brand’s growth journey. Today, Flurys operates 110+ outlets across India and is on track to reach 120 outlets shortly, while continuing to deliver double-digit revenue growth. Rohit’s proven expertise in scaling national F&B brands and driving operational excellence will play a key role as we accelerate expansion, strengthen execution and build long-term value for the business.”

Rohit Kakra on his appointment

Rohit Kakra, Chief Operating Officer, Flurys, ASPHL said, “Flurys is not just an iconic asset in ASHPL’s portfolio; it is a legendary heritage brand with nearly a century of deep-rooted brand affinity and customer loyalty. I am incredibly honoured to lead the brand through this exciting phase of growth, especially as we approach its centenary year. My focus will be on driving disciplined scale-up across different formats, streamlining operational efficiencies, and delivering the signature Flurys experience to new geographical markets like Delhi / NCR, Pune and Bangalore.”

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

Sajeev brings over 21 years of hospitality experience across hotel operations, guest satisfaction, 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.

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 Vision

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.

Novotel Mumbai International Airport Appoints Chef Karan Kohli as Executive Chef

Mumbai, August 2026 – Novotel Mumbai International Airport is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Karan Kohli as Executive Chef, effective 29th July 2026. With over 16 years of extensive culinary experience across leading hospitality brands, Chef Karan brings a wealth of expertise and a strong track record of culinary excellence to his new role. His professional journey spans renowned hospitality names including Hyatt, Accor, Marriott International, Taj Hotels, Crowne Plaza, Trident, and Alila Diwa.

A seasoned culinary professional, Chef Karan has built his career across diverse hospitality environments, developing extensive expertise in culinary innovation, menu development, large-scale banquet operations, food cost management, team leadership, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. His approach combines a strong focus on quality and consistency with a passion for creating distinctive culinary experiences.

Prior to joining Novotel Mumbai International Airport, Chef Karan served as Executive Chef at Ronil Goa - JdV by Hyatt, where he successfully led the culinary division during the hotel's pre-opening phase. He played a key role in establishing the property's culinary operations and creating exceptional dining experiences across multiple outlets. His experience in managing pre-opening operations, coupled with his expertise in culinary strategy and team leadership, has further strengthened his ability to drive operational excellence and deliver memorable dining experiences.

Throughout his career, Chef Karan's passion for culinary excellence and commitment to quality have earned him several industry recognitions, reflecting his contribution to the hospitality and culinary landscape. His extensive experience across leading hotel brands and varied culinary operations positions him well to lead the culinary team at Novotel Mumbai International Airport.

“Chef Karan brings a strong wealth of culinary expertise and leadership experience to Novotel Mumbai International Airport. We are delighted to welcome him to the team and look forward to his contribution towards elevating our culinary offerings and guest experiences,” said Rachita Sood, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai International Airport.

In his new role, Chef Karan will oversee the hotel's culinary operations, with a focus on culinary innovation, menu development, operational excellence, and enhancing the overall dining experience. His appointment marks another step in Novotel Mumbai International Airport's continued focus on delivering quality food and beverage experiences to its guests.

With Chef Karan Kohli joining the team, Novotel Mumbai International Airport looks forward to leveraging his extensive culinary expertise and leadership experience to further strengthen its culinary offerings and create engaging and memorable dining experiences for its guests.

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.”