SaffronStays Reaches A Milestone; Clocks In 200 Private Vacation Homes Across India

SaffronStays Reaches A Milestone; Clocks In 200 Private Vacation Homes Across India

~ 60 of these homes have been on-boarded in the last 4 months ~

Mumbai, 2022: SaffronStays, a 7-year-old trusted network of story-rich private vacation homes across the country, has achieved yet another milestone. Despite the uncertainties in the travel and hospitality industry owing to the pandemic, the company has reached a milestone count of 200 homes. Of these, 60 homes were added in the last four months (Oct ‘21 to Jan ‘22). This accounts for a 43% growth in 4 months alone.

From heritage homes to luxurious beachfront getaways, lakeside-riverside villas, homes with Grecian whites, and infinite valley view villas among several others, the brand has a collection of exclusive homes with a variety of experiences. Talking about the expansion, Devendra Parulekar, Founder, SaffronStays, says, "While 2020 was about surviving Covid-19, and 2021-22 was about deepening and focussing on a cluster approach in an independent market like Maharashtra, and constantly raising our service and quality standards, 2022-23 will be all about Pan India expansion, without compromising on the quality of experience that guests love us for. Our plan is to continue adding 15-20 homes a month in 16 chosen sectors across 7 Indian states.”

However, the award-winning brand’s growth is not just limited to quantitative progress. In the last two years, SaffronStays has also taken the time out to work on its quality. For instance, they have introduced the ‘House of Brands’ concept, which focuses on structuring the homes under three categories - SaffronStays, Signature & X Series. Along with this, they have introduced a simple management contract with transparent commercial arrangements, which offers a completely hassle-free renting experience to home owners where everything is managed by team SaffronStays. Simultaneously, they have also expanded their tech team to make all stakeholders’ experience digital-first - be it automation, design-led innovation, developing micro-products among other things. In keeping with each region, cook and home’s specialties, SaffronStays homes also have a personalised F&B experience where they curate special menus. The hospitality collective has also worked on growing its leadership and hired industry experts in different teams. 

Elaborating on the same, Vinay Chandavarkar, Chief Development Officer, SaffronStays, who joined the team in September 2021 shares, “Our recent pace of growth strongly indicates our stakeholders' confidence in us. As we continue to evolve in this fast-paced segment, we commit a hassle-free and commercially efficient management offering to our Home Owners, while at the same time, a unique experiential stay for our guests under our new 'House of Brands' approach.”

Launched by husband-wife duo Mr. Devendra and Ms. Tejas Parulekar, SaffronStays is now a preferred choice among families and groups who want to celebrate special occasions or head out of the city for a quick getaway. Post-COVID, many traditional resort-goers switched gears and have started recognising, acknowledging and consuming private vacation homes owing to the privacy, certainty and exclusivity it offers. With exponential growth in bookings - 65 pc over the last one year - it has progressed from simply being a homegrown hospitality player to one that’s making strong inroads in the fast-growing and evolving segment with their pioneering work.

Personal Effectiveness for Hospitality Professionals

Personal Effectiveness for Hospitality Professionals

By: Dr. Suhas Rao

In our flourishing and multidimensional hospitality industry which is highly competitive, we need to have the right skillsets that will help us understand and analyse the global trends and the constant challenges which need to be in sync with the demanding exalted expectations of our guests. Every employee in our industry needs to constantly polish ones’ Personal Effectiveness by sharpening the saw optimally & to understand our teams better.We can constantly have an endeavour to develop these to achieve our personal and professional goals.

This emphasises on the following Outcomes:

• Fine Tuning of our Professional Image

• Refining the Art of Communication 

• Creating A Lasting Impression

As Oprah Winfrey, the leading award-winning American Talk Show Host rightly puts it –

“The more You Praise and Celebrate Your Life,

                                  The more there is in Life to Celebrate.”

Personal Effectiveness in hospitality is very critical for leading to breakthrough success whether online ( these days) or even in face-to-face/offline/hybrid environments. 

Personal Effectiveness harps on a few things like:

• Clarity in Thoughts

• Proper Goal Setting

• Effective Use of Time 

• Inculcating Regular Learning

• Developing of Resilience

• Being Experiential

• Making It Happen

• Having A Positive Mindset

This is possible if we are emotionally and physically happy, enjoy what we do, and care and share with our guests, peers, teams, family members, and for that matter with whom we come in contact in the community and society.

To be successful In our professional and personal lives, We need to equip ourselves with some vital and must-have skills and competencies: 

• Communication with Others

• Practicing Empathy 

• Collaboration and Team Dynamics

• Critical Thinking

• Redefining of Leadership 

• Managing Self & others

• Being Analytical

• Decision Making & Problem Solving

• Understanding our Business 

This will help in Increasing Profitability, Enhancing Productivity Boosting Engagement & being Exponential at the Workplace. Change in Our Mindsets will help bring a Shift in Our Behaviour and Becoming More Positive in Approach, Reinforcing Our Learning and Validating Our Actions more so ever during these pandemic times.

Personal Effectiveness at our workplace demands -

• Visualizing what our Guests Really Want

• Connecting with our Value Systems

• Identifying with Priorities of meeting our guests needs

• Welcoming and Seeking Feedback from them

Exercise : (Check Your Personal Effectiveness Quotient (PEQ)- Let’s practice   a simple way in understanding how to enhance our Personal -Effectiveness by preparing and using a simple and pragmatic Individual Development Action Plan [IDAP]:

There is no right or wrong or any restrictions on the number of times for attempting and completing the above IDAP, which is an important technique for Self Development. We can be personally effective in different ways because each of us has different goals, values, and priorities which are best suited to us individually & in groups. 

All personally effective hospitality employees need to make optimum use of their resources and are skilled at achieving their set goals/targets.

Creating the WoW Factor is the hallmark for serving our guests and creating pure customer delight. This would help in repeated clientele, increase in goodwill, going the extra mile,& being very pragmatic in guest handling and giving phenomenal customer experiences.

Brief About Writer

Dr. SUHAS RAO

He is an Ln’D Architect | Academician | Content Developer | VILT Enabler with rich industry & academic experience having impacted employees of 50+ top brands with verifiable success in HRD, Customer Delight & Performance Optimization.

Balti Bhar Ke’, the 11-minute quick service, micro-culinary brand by Kebabs and Curries Company opens its first outlet in C-Scheme, Jaipur

‘Balti Bhar Ke’, the 11-minute quick service, micro-culinary brand by Kebabs and Curries Company opens its first outlet in C-Scheme, Jaipur

March 2022, Jaipur:  Balti Bhar Ke, as the name suggests means abundance, and as such, the brand delivers happiness and good food, in excess to its guests and patrons. Balti Bhar Ke, brings together five elements of Kebabs and Curries Company (KCCO) under one brand experience to give Jaipurites a new way of dining.

Guests can visit the bold, vibrant yellow dining space at Neelkanth Towers, near MGF Mall, C Scheme and be treated to the following,

1. 20 bestselling items of Kebabs and Curries Company

2. New delicious recipes like Keema Pao, Keema Baati, Makhanwala Tandoori chicken, Chicken Changezi, Desi Ghee Mutton Curry, Desi Ghee Chicken Curry, Khamiri Roti etc.

3. All items are available in half kilo, 1 kilo and 1.5 kilo smart packs, in user-friendly, jumbo packaging

4. Kebabs are available in party packs of 6, 12, 18 pieces

5. A super-quick 11-minute food out time from the KCCO kitchen.

This is the newest brand to be launched by Kebabs and Curries Company and is a combination of the Kebabs and Curries’ best business practices, customer insights and new smart brand design.

Tarun Behl, founder and Managing Director, KCCO India Pvt Ltd said “The pandemic has changed the eating habits of people.  Balti Bhar Ke gives our guests the best of KCCO menu and new recipes as well.”

Varun Behl, co-founder and Managing Director, KCCO India Pvt Ltd said “Balti Bhar Ke is a completely new concept that we have launched. Balti Bhar Ke is focused on group eating and family events. In short, happiness, Balti Bhar Ke, delivered by Kebabs and Curries Company”.  

A homegrown brand, Kebabs & Curries Company (KCCO) has been creating unforgettable dining experiences for 18 years. This Jaipur based culinary brand has a chain of restaurants and QSR (Quick Service Restaurants) in prime locations (Raja Park, Chitrakoot (Vaishali Nagar), Jagatpura, Sitapura, World Trade Park Mall, Banipark, Hawa Mahal (Pink City), So Hi B2 Bypass, Elements Mall (DCM Ajmer Road) and VT Road Mansarovar, Kota (Rajiv Gandhi Nagar), Udaipur and few other select cities of Rajasthan.

KCCO India Pvt. Ltd currently has seven culinary brands under its ambit and its focus is on quality, consistency, hygiene and service across all its outlets. Apart from its restaurants, KCCO India Pvt. Ltd also operates in the space of upscale catering for groups and events. KCCO India Pvt Ltd currently has its presence in Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota, Udaipur with a total 16 number of restaurants and culinary outlets.

Appointment | Swaroop Pattanaik is appointed Front Office Manager at The Westin Mumbai Garden City

With his Hotel Management degree from the Institute of Technical Education and Research (ITER), Odisha, he will manage the smooth functioning of the front office while ensuring the highest guest satisfaction

The Westin Mumbai Garden City announced the appointment of Swaroop Pattanaik as the Front Office Manager. A seasoned hotelier, Pattanaik brings over 12 years of hospitality experience with various brands of Select, Premium and Luxury categories of Marriott International.

In his former role as the Front Office Manager at Sheraton Grand Pune, he was responsible for overseeing the front office operations, housekeeping, gym and spa. In the past, Pattanaik has been part of 5 pre-opening properties in 5 different cities across the brands Hyatt, Taj Hotels and Resorts and Marriott International.

With his Hotel Management degree from the Institute of Technical Education and Research (ITER), Odisha, Swaroop will manage the smooth functioning of the front office while ensuring the highest guest satisfaction. Since his appointment in December 2021, he has become an integral part of the team with his adeptness as a team player and exemplary managerial abilities.

Outside the workplace, Pattanaik is a bike enthusiast and enjoys riding on the streets of Mumbai and taking adventurous road trips to neighboring hill stations.

Appointment | Ashwini Kumar appointed Executive Chef of The Westin Pushkar Resort and Spa

Ashwini Kumar appointed Executive Chef of The Westin Pushkar Resort and Spa

The Westin Pushkar Resort and Spa has appointed Ashwini Kumar as its Executive Chef. With an extensive experience of over 16 years, he has in-depth understanding, knowledge, and exposure of global gastronomy trends, which will help in elevating the customer’s dining experiences at the luxury resort.

In his role, he will actively spearhead the kitchen department to ensure smooth operations in terms of crafting innovative menus, maintaining customer satisfaction, and monitoring the culinary team while maintaining the Westin brand quality. A seasoned professional in culinary operations along with an expertise in Indian and Western cuisines, Ashwini will be spearheading the exquisite food and beverage section of the resort.

Before joining The Westin Pushkar Resort and Spa, Ashwini was working with the Radisson, Kandla, Gandhidham, Gujarat as Executive Chef. He did his kitchen operational training from Hotel New Kenilworth, Kolkata and then joined Taj Bengal Kolkata as a supervisor in Food Production. He worked his way through the industry ladder and has been associated with prominent brands such as Hilton Hotel, New Delhi, Marriott Hotel Whitefield, Bengaluru and Hyatt Centric, Bengaluru. He has also worked with international brands in cities such as Almaty, Kazakhstan and Colombo, Sri Lanka.

He is a graduate in B.Sc. in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from Institute of Hotel Management Bhubaneswar. According to him, one of his most prideful moments in life was preparing an honorary meal for the then Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh during his visit to Kazakhstan.

Appointment | Jeronimo Allen Trindade joins Goa Marriott Resort and Spa as HR Director

He will employ his spectrum of expertise to administer recruitment, performance management, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, competency mapping, and industrial relations

Jeronimo Allen Trindade has been appointed as the Director of Human Resources at Goa Marriott Resort and Spa. He brings with him a rich experience of over 15 years with hospitality chains such as the Taj and Hilton and International experience from the United Arab Emirates as well. He also carries expertise in working with cross-functional teams in the domains of Business Excellence.

In his current stint with Goa Marriott Resort and Spa, Jeronimo is employing his spectrum of expertise to administer Recruitment, Performance Management, Employee Engagement, Compensation and Benefits, Competency Mapping, and Industrial Relations.

Jeronimo’s leadership skills, technical proficiency, and excellent understanding of brand ethos have served as the stepping stones for the growth in his career.

His story communicates the kind of executive he is and reflects the culture of the company he is associated with. At leisure, he loves to spend time with his daughter, is a bike riding enthusiast, and loves traveling.

TTF kicks off at the Chennai Trade Centre

TTF kicks off at the Chennai Trade Centre

CHENNAI: March 2022: TTF opened today at the Chennai Trade Centre, with the objective of boosting the revival of travel and tourism post-pandemic.

India has finally resumed international flights on March 27th, 20221, to restart normal overseas operations for airlines and airports. This decision just ahead of the summer season augurs well for the travel and tourism industry at large. According to DGCA reports, 60 airlines from 40 countries have been given permission to operate 1,783 frequencies to/from India during the summer schedule which will be effective from March 27 to October 29. It also reported that a total of 1,466 international departures per week have been approved for six Indian carriers for the summer schedule and they will operate to 43 destinations in 27 countries. A sharp rise in airline bookings leading to pre-Covid levels is anticipated in the coming months.

The government’s call to resume travel completely also means some relief for those involved in the travel trade - a business that was the worst hit due to Covid. It is also a moment of celebration for the end customers who have been waiting for the restrictions to be eased.

However, with major international destinations opening slowly, the complete resumption of international travel may still take some time. As per reports, meanwhile, domestic leisure travel is making a roaring comeback. TTF Chennai starts at a perfect time when the tourists are looking for their next vacation3. That is the reason the TTF series has adopted the theme ‘Restart, Rebuild and Rejuvenate Travel & Tourism Economy’.

Starting today, 100+ participants from 13 Indian states are exhibiting at the Chennai Trade Centre (Nandambakkam) at the Travel & Tourism Fair, TTF from 31 March to 2 April 2022.

TTF Chennai was inaugurated by Dr. M. Mathiventhan, Honourable Minister for Tourism, Government of Tamil Nadu. Dr. B. Chandra Mohan, IAS, Principal Secretary of Government Tourism and HRCE Department, Government of Tamil Nadu; Thiru. Sandeep Nanduri, IAS, Director Tourism Government of Tamil Nadu and Managing Director TTDC, and Mr. Mohamed Farouk, Regional Director (Additional Charge), India tourism Chennai, along with travel association heads and top-level delegates, graced the event with their presence.

Tamil Nadu is the Host State for the event and has extended its full support. Odisha, Kerala, Karnataka, and Gujarat are the Partner States, while Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Puducherry joined the show as the Feature States, alongside key private players from DMCs, hospitality sector, aviation and others.

India Tourism too has a key presence at the show, showcasing all their campaigns and programmes like Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Dekho Apna Desh, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat etc.

The show is reserved for travel trade visitors from today to half-day tomorrow, i.e. 1st April, from 11 am to 2 pm. The second half of tomorrow and the whole of the last day, i.e. 2nd April, will be open to all.

The travel trade is expected to revive and restart in large numbers, with new as well as existing partners. Eager travelers have shown up at the show to get the best deals and travel offers from all over India.

TTF is the oldest and biggest network of travel trade shows in the country, covering 9 cities annually. In addition to Chennai, it is organized in Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Surat and Pune.

TTF has the active support of travel associations like TAAI, OTOAI, ADTOI, SIGTOA, TAFI, ETAA, IATO, KTS, IATTE, TOA, TOAT, TTAT, TAAC, ISFA, TTAA and TAAK.

Travel and Tour World, Musafir Media Hub, The Voice of Chandigarh, Tourism Mirror, Travel Correspondence, BOTT, Sihra News, Travel Techie, Travel Secrets, TravTour MICE, Travel Turtle, and T3FS have also come aboard as media partners for the show.

TTF in Chennai could not have had better timing, to give the much-required impetus to the travel and tourism industry in India.

Eclat Insights | Using If-Then Thinking For Service Design

I was going to write a catchy title like 'If you implement this insight, then you will have awesome service processes'. Then, I didn't.  

Instead, If you read this insight, then you will have found a simple yet powerful tool to make your processes and people response-able, nimble and fun!

If-Then plans (Gollwitzer 1999), where people commit themselves to doing a certain thing in a specific situation are commonly used in health psychology. These self-made plans capture pre-specified responses if a certain situation occurs. Deciding such things in advance reduces the demands you put on your willpower.

Why is it relevant to Hospitality & Service Industries

• Our SOPs are broken. They are too perfect, too linear. Everything in an SOP seems to happen in a very predetermined way. These are great for training, but not so much for the reality of work.

• Situational awareness and response to a guest query, request or action can be the difference between average and superlative service.

• Thinking about situations, enhances its cognitive accessibility, directing attention to the situation and making it easier to detect and respond to.

• Linking the situation to the intended behaviour creates a strong associative link which automates the initiation of the behaviour.

Examples

For A Check-In, a front desk team member sets the following If, Then behaviour intention:

• If a guest looks tired or sad, then I will ask him for a tea/coffee/drink.

• If a guest has a child with them, which was not mentioned on the reservation, then I will ask if they need an extra bed. If they need an extra bed, then I will ensure Housekeeping sets it up along with amenities - bath, water, kids specials.

Actionable Insights

How to do this?

First, explore the Ifs for your processes.

The Ifs are the situations you want to remind your teams about:

1. If the guest is looking around the restaurant frantically...

2. If the guest starts pacing or is agitated at check out..

3. If the guest is unable to make up their mind on what to order..

Then explore and list the Thens

Answer the question ‘what might we do in response to the Ifs?’, 

1. …Then I’ll immediately go over and ask if there is anything I can assist them with.

2. …Then I will ask the guest if they are in a hurry.

3. …Then I will let them know house specials or what the chef recommends.

Repeat this for as many Ifs as you like.

How To Make This Wow?

WOW, Idea 1 - Overcoming the obstacle:

Think of this as the next level for If, Then plans.

Example: A front desk associate may set up the following If, Then

• If, I am helping a guest at the front desk, Then, I will give them my full attention.

• If, while I am helping the guest and the phone rings, Then, I will ....

Creating a solution to that particular situation - of the phone ringing - is overcoming the obstacle. Possible options could be:

• let the phone ring

• let someone else answer the phone

• forward to call to another extension

Wow, Idea 2 - Do If, Then for multiple levels in the same situation.

Example

If the guest is unable to make up their mind on what to order..

…Then I will let them know house specials or what the chef recommends.

But If the guest does not like my suggestions, then I will....

Wow, Idea 3 - Do If, Then for your team members or Internal Processes.

If my team member looks sad, Then I will....

If my team does not meet the targets, Then I will....

Appointment | Absolute Hotel Services India appoints Kabir Mehra as General Manager of Eastin Easy Aishwarya Talegaon

An IHM-A graduate, he is a seasoned hospitality professional who has worked with the company for the past few years

Absolute Hotel Services (AHS) India has appointed Kabir Mehra as the General Manager of Eastin Easy Aishwarya Talegaon. An IHM-A graduate, he is a seasoned hospitality professional who has worked with the company for the past few years. This includes helming critical managerial positions at key properties like Eastin Residences, Vadodara, Eastin Easy Vita, and now Eastin Easy Aishwarya Talegaon.

Kabir has an enriching experience including Hotel pre-opening and has grown in every position throughout his career. A hands-on General Manager, he is involved in every aspect of the hotel operations, be it sales, marketing or revenue. His sharp acumen and understanding of the systems and processes, have led to his latest promotion.

“As an international hotel management company, our brand ethos is to nurture internal talent, provide them training and elevate them from their current position of bigger roles and responsibilities within the organization. AHS, as a group is expanding and seeks to have candidates who have a deeper understanding of the stringent procedures and the confidence to lead the teams,” stated Shalil Suvarna, Vice President, Operations and Pre-Opening, AHS.

Appointment | Double Tree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad appoints Ashwarya Varma as Marketing and Communication Manager

She will elevate the brand’s positioning, drive engagement and raise revenue levels through innovative marketing campaigns and PR activities

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad has announced the appointment of Ashwarya Varma as the Marketing and Communications Manager. She shows immense credibility and promises to shoulder responsibilities in order to carry out all marketing and PR driven activities. Bringing on table years of experience she is all set to elevate the brand’s positioning, driving engagement and raise the revenue levels through innovative marketing campaigns and PR activities.

Ashwarya has nearly six years of professional work experience and prior to joining DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad, her last stint was with a PR agency- Adfactors PR where she was responsible for carrying out all key communication and PR activities for several major brands.

Ashwarya holds a PGD in Media and Communication as well as a BBA in Media and Communication from Whistling Woods International, Mumbai. Commenting on her appointment, Ashwarya said “I am truly elated and excited to be a part of the team at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad and I look forward to forming strong connections with my associates, great repertoire with guests and lasting binds with the media fraternity. It is an honor to receive this opportunity and will strive hard to deliver my best in raising the hotel’s status to higher levels”.

Appointment | Sahara Star appoints Piyush Sinha as its new Chief Engineer

He will oversee all aspects of the engineering department ensuring better efficiency in product, time, and finance

Sahara Star Mumbai has appointed Piyush Sinha as its new Chief Engineer. Piyush Sinha will oversee all aspects of the Engineering department ensuring better efficiency in product, time, and finance. He will be implementing best business practices to achieve organizational goals and reduce the carbon footprint of the property for contributing to a safer environment.

His qualifications include specialization in B. Tech with an executive MBA degree in Project and Operations Management from IIT Ghaziabad. Piyush Sinha brings along a decade of comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety operations with a first-rate pre-opening experience of several luxury Marriott properties. Prior to joining Sahara Star, Piyush was associated with the Ritz Carlton Pune and has spent a considerable period working with several iconic Marriott Properties PAN India.

Appointment | Kumar Videsh is Operations Manager of Four A Lords Resort, Jammu

He has over 13 years of experience in leading the banqueting, food and beverage, room service, and ODCs

Kumar Videsh has joined Four A Lords Resort, Jammu as Operations Manager. He has over 13 years of experience in leading the banqueting, food and beverage, room service, and ODCs.

The 35-year young Kumar has a Diploma in Hotel Management and catering technology. He spent the initial days of his career at Four Points Vashi, Mumbai as food and beverage Associate and later joined Radisson Kandla, Gandhidham as Team Leader before shifting to Westin Pune, Koregaon Park as food and beverage Executive.

Kumar then moved to Fern Hotel, Ahmedabad as banquet manager, Hotel Clarks Avadh, Lucknow as food and beverage Manager, Fern Hotel, Jaipur as food and beverage Manager, Binori Hotels Ahmedabad as food and beverage Manager. He was also associated with Lithosphere by Upper Crust, Ahmedabad as Operations Manager. He signed off his innings at Nexus Lords Club, Gandhidham and rejoined FALRJ as Unit Head.

Appointment | Conrad Bengaluru appoints Dhinakaran Kuppusamy as HR Director

Having started his professional journey in 1992 with ITC Hotels Park Sheraton and Towers, Chennai, his previous assignment was with the InterContinental Abu Dhabi as the Head of Human Resources

Dhinakaran Kuppusamy has joined Conrad Bengaluru as the Director of Human Resources. He is a seasoned veteran in Hotel Operations and Human Resources, with over 29 years of experience.

Having started his professional journey in 1992 with ITC Hotels Park Sheraton and Towers, Chennai, his previous assignment was with InterContinental Abu Dhabi as the Head of Human Resources. Dhinakaran’s body of work also includes a successful tenure with The Zuri Whitefield Bengaluru, Crowne Plaza Bengaluru Electronics City, InterContinental Hotels Group – Area Director of Human Resources – South India, Crowne Plaza Dubai, Millennium Place Dubai as a Cluster DHR.

Having pursued his MBA in HR from Bharathiar University, Dhinakaran comes with a wide spectrum of knowledge pertaining to the industry. Hence, his new role at Conrad Bengaluru would primarily focus on various areas such as employee well-being, resourcing, talent development, supporting and encouraging excellence in customer service.

On his appointment, Dhinakaran said, “Embarking on a professional journey with Conrad Bengaluru, I am delighted to be a part of Hilton hotels. I am looking forward to developing new and effective strategies and capabilities that further enhance the overall growth of Conrad Bengaluru’s culture and vision.

Appointment | Henna Punjabi is the Marketing and Communications Manager at The Westin Chennai Velachery

She will be responsible for diverse marketing, communications, media relations, social media and digital marketing activities

The Westin Chennai Velachery has appointed Heena Punjabi as Marketing and Communications Manager. She will be responsible for diverse marketing, communications, media relations, social media and digital marketing activities. Her role engages her to enhance brand visibility of the hotel along with positioning and marketing of Food & Beverage presence of award-winning restaurants and the Spa in the Hotel.

Henna is a seasoned hospitality sales and marketing professional, holding 6+ years of enriching experience in the industry. She started her career with Holiday Inn Chennai launching the property and then moved on to work with different brands in Bengaluru where she set up communications, brand language. She then returned to Chennai with Dineout, spearheading sales and acquisitions for Dineout Passport. She has successfully penetrated the market and set benchmarks while working on different events and collaborations for the brand.

At The Westin Chennai Velachery, Henna, looks forward to creating robust marketing strategies by channelizing maximum tools to create engaging, effective and relevant marketing and communication campaigns. In her leisure time, she likes to read mystery novels and solo travel.

Appointment | Taj West End Bengaluru appoints Sandip Narang as Hotel Manager

He will be responsible for positioning the hotel as a landmark property in the city, in addition to managing its commercial objectives, and delivering world-class experiences to its guests

Sandip Narang has been elevated to the position of Hotel Manager at the Taj West End, Bengaluru. With nearly three decades of experience working as a chef at IHCL, Narang brings with him a repertoire of knowledge and experience both in the field of culinary as well as hotel management and operations.

In his new role, he will be responsible for positioning the hotel as the landmark property in the heart of the city, in addition to managing the hotel’s commercial objectives, and delivering world-class experiences to its guests. He says, “Having spent my last few years in the city, I’m thrilled to be leading the team at Taj West End. I look forward to working with the entire team on further elevating the bespoke service and innovative guest experience that the Taj group of hotels are known for.”

Having graduated from the Bombay catering college, he started his culinary training at the Taj Mahal Palace and Towers. Over the years, he has led and been a part of various teams catering to heads of state and celebrities both in India and around the world; organized food promotions in various countries around the world, in addition to extensive touring of the Middle East and launching the successful restaurant, ‘SOUK’.

A highlight in his career was when he essayed the role of personal chef to former Indian Prime Minister, Atal Behari Vajpayee on his trips to Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkey, in 2002-03.

His past roles include the responsibilities of Executive Chef at the lush Taj West End, Bengaluru, Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives, and the stunning Taj Lake Palace Udaipur. 

In his spare time, he can be found rewatching Amitabh Bachchan classics and building a secret collection of fountain pens.

Appointment | Mercure Chennai Sriperumbudur appoints Susanta Kumar Jena as Housekeeping Manager

At Mercure Chennai, he will be responsible for Housekeeping operations and Mercure organic Garden

Mercure Chennai Sriperumbudur has appointed Susanta Kumar Jena, as Housekeeping Manager. He brings with her over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry and has worked under ITC Kakatiya Hyderabad and his last assignment was with Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre as Housekeeping Manager.

At Mercure Chennai, he will be responsible for Housekeeping operations and Mercure organic Garden. Mercure is a mid-scale brand that combines the strength of an international network with locally inspired experiences.

Appointment | DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad appoints Apoorva Tripathi as Finance Manager

She will be responsible for preparing the operational budgets with regular forecasting of reports and will be accountable for the financial health of the organization

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad has appointed Apoorva Tripathi as the Finance Manager. She will be responsible in preparing the operational budgets with regular forecasting of report as well as be accountable for the financial health of the organization.

Apoorva Tripathi secured her CMA course from The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India and started her professional journey nearly nine years ago. During her tenure she has had the opportunity to work with several hospitality brands such as The Taj Group, Le Meridien, Renaissance Race Course Hotel etc. In the course of her working at The Renaissance Race Course Hotel Bengaluru, Apoorva was instrumental for generating and providing accurate and timely results in the form of reports, presentations, providing direction and assistance to other organizational units regarding accounting and budgeting policies and procedures, and efficient control and utilization of financial resources, and much more.

A dynamic team leader, Apoorva looks forward to working with her team in achieving the key financial aspects of the hotel. In her leisure time, she loves spending time reading books, listening to music, playing badminton, and singing.

Commenting on Apoorva’s appointment Vinay Nair, General Manager said, “We are pleased to welcome Apoorva on board. We look forward to doing some great work with her to ensure streamlining of our financial and budgeting processes, financial modeling, and much more”.

In all her prior positions, Apoorva has played a key role in accelerating the brand’s goals which have resulted in her achieving senior positions. Throughout the years she has been a go-getter, loyal and seasoned professional at every organization that she has been a part of.

At DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad, Apoorva will be working closely with the leadership team to positively impact the hotel’s financial goals. “I am thrilled to embark upon this journey and be presented with this opportunity. The hotel has a special place in the heart of many in Pune, to ensure that it carries on; driving the financial operations and taking them to greater heights will be my main focus,” said Apoorva Tripathi, Finance Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad.

Accor appoints Vinay Gupta as Director of Operations for ibis India portfolio

Accor announced Vinay Gupta’s appointment as the Director of Operations for ibis and ibis Styles, India portfolio. He is a veteran in the Hospitality sector with over 25 years of experience managing hotels, alongside being the founder of an aspirational food and beverage concept, with his last role being Vice President at SAMHI Hotels.

Throughout his career span of 25 years as a hotelier, he has handled different roles from being in an entry level role to managing different portfolios for a single brand, to being a General Manager of different hotels across three different continents.

He has an MBA Degree from The University of Central Lancashire, UK and a Diploma in Hospitality from IHM, Pusa Road. He also holds a BA Hons in Hospitality from Lancaster University, UK.

On his appointment, Vinay Gupta said, “I am delighted and honored to be back with Accor, it feels like homecoming in so many ways. Ibis has had a great journey with 20 hotels currently operating across the nation and five under development. ibis and ibis Styles are the fun and youthful global brand by Accor, I look forward to work on taking it to newer heights. We have a highly motivated and exceptional team that runs our hotels as well as a strong and loyal guest base. I look forward to being a part of this exciting journey ahead.”

On this occasion, Puneet Dhawan, Senior VP Operations, India and South Asia for Accor, “We are thrilled to welcome Vinay back to the Accor family with this new and exciting role. Our Ibis portfolio continues to grow from strength to strength and I am sure his insights and support will be invaluable for the team as we continue to expand the portfolio in the coming years.”

Congratulating Vinay, JB Singh, President and CEO- InterGlobe Hotels, said, “We are delighted to welcome Vinay to Interglobe and the ibis family. He holds a rich and a diverse experience in this industry and brings strong expertise with him. We are confident that his knowledge and approach to the business along with his passionate outlook will help us grow aggressively over the next few years.”

Manjeera Sarovar Premiere and Manjeera International Convention Centre at Rajahmundry launched

Sarovar Hotels along with Manjeera Hotels and Resorts, which is part of Hyderabad-based Manjeera Group, has introduced its  5 star hotel ‘Manjeera Sarovar Premiere and Manjeera International Convention Centre at Rajahmundry. The new hotel was celebrated in the presence of G Kishan Reddy, Honourable Minister for Tourism and Culture, Govt of India along with Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla, Member Rajya Sabha.

The hotel and the convention centre have come up in 6 Acres of land leased by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Developed under the state government’s Public-Private Partnership initiative, the hotel is going to boost travel and tourism in the twin districts of Godavari.

Speaking on the occasion, G Yoganand, CMD, Manjeera Group said, “We are delighted to introduce ‘Manjeera Sarovar Premier’ here in Rajahmundary, our first Hotel in Andhra Pradesh. Rajahmundry, ranked amongst the oldest cities in the Indian subcontinent, once the seat of the powerful Chalukyasis the ‘cultural capital’ of AP, known for its rich tradition, arts and culture. Our hotel here is going to facilitate business travelers and tourists alike. We thank AP Tourism Development Corporation for their support extended to build this hotel, local bodies for granting necessary permissions and Tourism Financial Corporation of India for extending their support to the project financially.”

He further added, “Over the last two decades we have acquired expertise of constructing hotels with a high degree of efficiency and functionality. All our hotels are designed with latest features and futuristic technology and are built as per standards laid down by the government and other relevant agencies. They are managed by professionals and operated by Sarovar Hotels. Utmost care is given to safety, hygiene, comfort and service and value for money, suitable for a wide cross section of travelers.”

Commenting on the development, Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels, said “With the addition of Manjeera Sarovar Premiere and Manjeera International Convention Centre  our position in the AP Market in line with  the brand’s growth strategy has further been strengthened. Sarovar Hotels has a long standing association with Manjeera Hospitality spanning over two decades and this is Manjeera’s fourth venture which too will be managed by Sarovar Hotels.”

The unique feature of this development is that the hotel boasts 35,000 sq. ft. of Convention and Meeting space, the largest in Rajahmundary. The addition of Manjeera Sarovar Premiere to the chain of hotels managed by Sarovar Hotels follows the growing trend of business and leisure hotels along with the brand’s quality assurance and ‘Signature Sarovar Hospitality’, Mr.Ajay Bakaya further added.

The multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Flavors’ at the Manjeera Sarovar Premiere is set on the lobby level and showcases an elaborate menu featuring dishes from across the world. It is spacious and features large French windows that overlook verdant lawns. The Hotel’s Chill Lounge Bar is the perfect place to sit back and relax after a long day. The hotel features spacious banquet halls that can be used to host both social and corporate events with ease.

The hotel is designed around the brand’s lean-luxe design and service philosophy of offering a vibrant, contemporary, and seamless hospitality experience to its guests.

Appointment | Sayaji Hotels Limited Appoints Sonia Sharma as Director of Human Resources

Sonia brings over 12 years of experience in the field of Human Resources in India and abroad.

Sayaji Hotels Limited has announced the appointment of Sonia Sharma as Director of Human Resources. In her new role she will be responsible for all HR policies in Maharashtra and Gujarat regions and will report to Vice President-Operations and People for all strategic Human Resources initiatives. All the HR Managers in the region and Corporate Office will report to her.

A seasoned hospitality professional, Sonia brings over 12 years of experience in the field of Human Resources in India and abroad. She has worked with preeminent hospitality brands like Hyatt Hotels, Hilton Worldwide, Accor Hotels and Atmosphere Maldives.

Her career highlights entail pre-openings of some of the most prestigious hotel projects like Andaz, New Delhi and Conrad, Bengaluru which earned her various hospitality accolades like Hotelier India Award for Best HR Person of the Year. She is also a Certified Academic Trainer from Accor and have launched several award winning initiatives in the field of Learning and Development, Diversity and Inclusion.

Sayaji Hotels will soon expand its footprints nationally with property openings in Itarsi, Udaipur, Morbi, Bhuj, Dwarka, Satara, Dehradun, Bhopal, Rewa, Aurangabad, Tadoba, and Vizag.