Appointment | Syed Sumsudeen is Financial Controller at Holiday Inn Chennai OMR IT Expressway

He will be responsible for ensuring that hotel’s financial controls are healthy and the correct internal systems are in place to support this growth

Holiday Inn Chennai OMR IT Expressway announced the appointment of Syed Sumsudeen as its Financial Controller. As a dynamic team leader, he brings a decade of skill set in accounts and financial management experience from brands like Marriot, Accor, and Radisson and will be seen in administrating the finances of the hotel.

In his current role as the Financial Controller, he will be responsible for ensuring that hotel’s financial controls are healthy and the correct internal systems are in place to support this growth. Having completed in MBA in Finance Syed handled and coordinated all types finance operations including statements and expenses.

While being a passionate cricket player, Commenting on his appointment, Syed said, “I am very excited to be part of Team Holiday Inn Chennai and look forward to driving the team in achieving the organizational goals through driving the financial performances”.

Appointment | Monica Rawat is Executive Housekeeper at Holiday Inn Chennai OMR IT Expressway

Holiday Inn Chennai OMR IT Expressway appointed Monica Rawat as the new Executive House keeper. Monica will be instrumental in further enhancing the procedures of ‘IHG Clean Promise’ program at the hotel, which ensure the utmost safety and hygiene for guest’s associates across all functions.

Brining a decade of work experience in hospitality industry with eminent brands such as The Park, IHG, and TAJ Hotels, Monica has a proven track record in achieving the highest guest satisfaction and strategic approach towards problem solving and team management.

Monica mentioned “I am thrilled to embark upon this journey and be presented with this opportunity”.

Appointment | Novotel IBIS Chennai announces promotions and appointments to its senior leadership team

The promotions are Bala Murali as Food and Beverage Manager, Chef Saravanan Ranganathan as an Executive Chef and Shreesh Mishra as the Front Office Manager

Novotel ibis Chennai OMR is pleased to announce the promotion of Bala Murali as Food and Beverage Manager. In his new role, he will oversee the Food and Beverage operations at the complex, along with a special focus on guest experience. His role also entails curating innovative experiences for visitors to the complex while nurturing business opportunities. Bala has been part of Accor since 2008, where he has had a successful career at key hotels such as Novotel Hyderabad Airport and Novotel Goa Resort and Spa, to name a few. Bala was a pre-opening team member and has had a vital role in creating the Food and Beverage identity of the complex. In his personal life, Bala is a travel enthusiast and likes to visit sites and heritage temples that are unexplored.

Chef Saravanan Ranganathan was also promoted to the position of Executive Chef, where he will oversee the entire culinary operations at the complex, which includes two restaurants, two bars and lounges, over 4000 square feet of banqueting space and in-room dining.. Chef Saravanan comes with vast culinary experience from working with premium brands such as The Leela Hotels and Resorts and Jumeirah Hotels. He began his tenure with Accor in 2018 as Executive Sous Chef at Novotel ibis Chennai OMR. He is also a passionate food explorer and travels far and wide to explore regional cuisines for inspiration to create new experiences

Shreesh Mishra has been appointed as Front Office Manager at Novotel ibis Chennai OMR. Shreesh began his career with IHG hotels at the Crowne Plaza Kochi. He began his stint with Accor as an Assistant Manager Front Office at Grand Mercure Bengaluru in 2015 and quickly rose through the ranks to become the Front Office Manager at Novotel Guwahati in 2018 . He has also been associated with Sayaji Hotels and IHG Hotels. Shreesh’ s current responsibilities include overseeing overall front office operations, with a special emphasis on guest experience and loyalty development, as well as instilling the ALL (Accor Live Limitless) culture in the team. His role is  crucial in managing guest sentiment toward the hotel, while focusing on increasing revenue streams. Shreesh is a Bachelor of Hospitality from the IHMCT and AN, Chennai. He enjoys exploring new and uncharted destinations as an avid traveler.

Appointment | Fairmont Jaipur Elevates Neeraj Sharma as the Food and Beverage Manager

He joined Fairmont Jaipur in September 2020 with a wealth of knowledge and an extensive background in the hospitality and Food and Beverage industry

Fairmont Jaipur announced the elevation of Neeraj Sharma as the luxury property’s Food and Beverage Manager. With a rich experience spanning over 15 years, Neeraj Sharma has proven to be a strong pillar for Fairmont Jaipur. He joined Fairmont Jaipur in September 2020 with a wealth of knowledge and an extensive background in the hospitality and Food and Beverage industry.

Commenting on the announcement, Rajiv Kapoor, General Manager, Fairmont Jaipur said, “Neeraj is a chief resource to Fairmont Jaipur. His exceptional experience in the Food and Beverage industry makes him a master in his domain. For any hotel, Food and Beverage is a key aspect to focus on and with virtuous employee like Neeraj we are certain that with his expertise and diverse skill set, he will pay a crucial role in helping us to translate our business objectives, as we continue to innovate and grow.”

Prior to this stint at Fairmont Jaipur, he has worked with Pullman and Novotel, New Delhi, as the Food and Beverage Assistant Manager. Having completed his education in Hotel Management from JP Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Uttar Pradesh, Sharma is a passionate hotelier, eager to bring new flavors, cuisines and incredible hospitality with unique dining experiences to each guest’s table at Fairmont Jaipur.

Neeraj Sharma comes with immense experience through his roles with leading hospitality chains such as Carnival Cruise Lines, The Leela Palace Chanakyapuri, Shangri-La New Delhi.

Aspiring To Be a Successful Chef - Chef Kaviraj shares his opinions and experience

ASPIRING TO BE A SUCCESSFUL CHEF

A REALISTIC 360 DEGREE APPROACH

Living a passion, enduring its journey & assimilating all that goes together into a success story can become a book by itself! The word “Chef” has not only been a very catchy and attractive one since a while now but also become a befitting title to almost everyone who loves cooking or aspires to be a culinarian during the course of time. When I look back in time and evaluate my own interest towards cooking which started since the age of seven observing and admiring the best home chefs in the world, my mother, my grandmother and the associated ladies of the house and family it brings back fondest memories which can replicate no other experience.

I was always very fond of and liked my table to be well set and arranged during all my dining times at home & a sense of being particular of the water glass, the cutlery, crockery, things to go alongside from condiments to accompaniments too became a part of detailed note as I grew along the phase. My favourite dishes included butter chicken, fried rice, hakka noodles and fish- n- chips since childhood and I had a quest and inclination to see how  my food was being cooked in the kitchen, mom would make me sit on the side shelf and some of the admirations of her skills included the way she chopped onions with a speed and finesse! Which made me try it too…a best guide and mentor to have since a young age is a mother or an elderly figure from home who can help set the goals right, since we didn’t have social media, Instagram, Facebook and other platforms to jump onto and build castles.

Long hours of dedication, persistence to pursue ones dreams and ambitions, being able to meet up expectations of self and family, exceeding self-realisations and to be able to match the demand and supply curve, facing competitions with a positive mind and a never give up attitude have been some of my self-motivating factors all the way long. 

A few reality checkpoints to look at before getting into it:

1. K.Y.S: Know Your Self – a little self-introspection, why do I want to be a chef? what attracts me into it? Is it just social media or? how about talking out your mind to a successful chef or one who can guide the real way through his/ her experience.

2. F A Q: Factors Affecting Quality- there is a need to check on what the factors which can affect one from diverting attention and focus away from the goal towards becoming a culinary expert, a known name and one people can look up to.

3. B T S: Between The Scenes – what ultimately matters during the work phase are realistic factors like sustainability, being able to stand, work for long hours, to get conditioned with all kinds of human behaviours and to be able to take all that comes our way on the journey, there will be ups and downs, good and bad days, testing times, but what we required in this industry is a continued vision with humility and grace.

4. A Q A: Ask Questions Always – one of the important point during our learning stage is asking questions, clarifying doubts, being able to get the answers to the unclear technical and beyond. Somehow some people feel that becoming a chef doesn’t need theory, it’s a practical industry, but one needs to realise the importance of know-hows before getting onto a range and tossing over a wok!

5. G A M E: Get A Mentor Evaluator: we usually think that by joining a professional course and completing a degree and diploma etc will be all enough for a lifetime to carry on the journey. It needs constant mentorship and guidance along the way too, there is a need to connect with professionals, work under or associate with skilled technically sounds and known chefs in order to improvise and update ourselves.

6. O W A A: Overcome Worries And Anxieties: it is important for budding professionals to keep an open mind towards situations, people, circumstances & unexpected case studies which are a part and parcel of our profession, be it any department. My observations somewhere tell me that the young generation today is anxious about rising up soon, getting titles, promotions, taking up responsibilities when not ready yet etc which at times can be disappointing for some.

7. S I O P: Success Is Ongoing Persistence: In my opinion and experience success comes to those who work towards it and strive to be different in their thoughts, actions, and creations. Being a chef is much more than just cooking and to be able to do a monotonous job can be a little put off for a few ambitions in the lot! I always liked to work in various sections, departments, front and back both understanding the nuances and approach systems, etc which go into the efforts of making a guest satisfied, be open to exploring more.

On a Concluding Note: The prestigious title of a Chef and its visibility, recognition, and value-added perks have grown in recent times as compared to a few decades back, the entire thought of being able to get into a kitchen, cooking up a storm, impressing loved ones and guests with something exciting, interesting & innovative has crossed all boundaries in modern times. we need to motivate, counsel, advice and encourage young minds to get more focussed before choosing this profession and with a continued effort of the community and industry on the whole we can create and look forward to a lot of competitive talent which can make the Indian food and hospitality industry reach up and stay on top of the charts on a global platform.

Celebrity Master Chef. Dr. Kaviraj Khialani.

Food & Hospitality Consultant.

Author- Academician- Advisor for Culinary and Hospitality Industry & Education Sector.

New Launch | Fairmont Ajman Beach Resort Launches Brand-New Padel Courts To Enhance Recreational Experience

Fairmont Ajman Beach Resort Launches Brand-New Padel Courts To Enhance Recreational Experience

AJMAN, April, 2022 - Padel tennis, a cross between tennis and squash, is the fastest growing sport and increasing in popularity across the country. Fairmont Ajman Beach Resort has launched a brand-new two Padel Courts, bringing the new wellness sport to Ajman; a move that is sure to bring a smile to the faces of fans of the popular hybrid sport.

As everywhere, Padel Tennis is riding a wave of popularity in the, UAE, with the sport’s appeal transcending die-hard enthusiasts to capture the interest of people who otherwise largely keep away from sporting activities but find themselves drawn to Padel because it is just such a fun and easy-to-play sport, and an extremely sociable.

Located within the right side of the resort next to the Pearl Garden, the panoramic outdoor green-turfed Padel Courts set in area of 800 square metres; each court is a standard size of 20 meter x 10 meter.

It is offering members and non-members a fantastic fitness facility, perfect for those who love a bit of competition whilst getting fit.. The exciting new attraction offers players the benefit of the various facilities of changing rooms, lockers, Wifi, restaurants, snack bar, kids playground and free parking, ensuring affordable and accessible sport for everyone. 

"At Fairmont Ajman, we take pride in being a true family resort, with an array of facilities and activities. We follow trends and constantly enhance our recreational inventory to create the best possible experience for our guests. With many UAE residents planning staycations this summer instead of international travel, we are confident those visiting our resort will have a memorable stay” said Ahmed Gaafar, Director of Operations, Acting General Manager, of Fairmont Ajman.

After much anticipation, it is now open and welcoming visitors. The court is available to book on hourly basis, from 7:00am until 22:00 pm, bookable. For further information, including opening hours and how to book, download the Playtomic app or Call +9716 7015506.

About Fairmont Ajman

With its idyllic location, Fairmont Ajman is just a short 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and minutes away from the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed Al Zorah Golf Club, Al Zorah Nature Reserve - an undisturbed natural mangrove home to more than 60 species of birds. Combining a classic style with modern, comfortable décor, all rooms and suites, including the double-storey penthouse suite, offer stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. When it comes to the culinary experience, the hotel features seven sumptuous restaurants including the signature Italian restaurant Gioia and the all-day dining restaurant Spectrum.

About Fairmont

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is where the intimate equally coexists with the infinite – an unrivaled portfolio of more than 80 extraordinary hotels where grand moments of life, heartfelt pleasures and personal milestones are celebrated and remembered long after any visit. Since 1907, Fairmont has created magnificent, meaningful and unforgettable hotels, rich with character and deeply connected to the history, culture and community of its destinations – places such as The Plaza in New York City, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs in Canada, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, and Fairmont The Palm in Dubai. Famous for its engaging service, awe-inspiring public spaces, locally inspired cuisine, and iconic bars and lounges, Fairmont also takes great pride in its pioneering approach to hospitality and leadership in sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Fairmont is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,200 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

Appointment | Tej - B Saru is the new chef de cuisine - Vintage Asia at JW Marriott Kolkata

With over two decades of culinary experience, the Nepal-born chef brings vivacious and innovative energy to the hotel’s diverse culinary scene.

With over two decades of culinary experience, Nepal-born chef Tej – B Saru brings vivacious and innovative energy to JW Marriott Kolkata’s diverse culinary scene. In his current role, he has joined as the Oriental specialty chef of Vintage Asia at JW Marriott Kolkata. His responsibilities include inculcating novel trends in and around the country and offering the best and most innovative food offerings to the patrons. Chef Tej, a master chef with extensive experience in cooking and curating the ideal dining experience for guests, will be responsible for ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the Vintage Asia kitchen operations, developing and tailoring menus to suit the guests and the hotel's needs, and ensuring that all

With over two decades of culinary experience, Nepal-born chef Tej – B Saru brings vivacious and innovative energy to JW Marriott Kolkata’s diverse culinary scene. In his current role, he has joined as the Oriental specialty chef of Vintage Asia at JW Marriott Kolkata. His responsibilities include inculcating novel trends in and around the country and offering the best and most innovative food offerings to the patrons. Chef Tej, a master chef with extensive experience in cooking and curating the ideal dining experience for guests, will be responsible for ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the Vintage Asia kitchen operations, developing and tailoring menus to suit the guests and the hotel's needs, and ensuring that all

Appointment | Manjula Lakshmanan is Assistant HR Director at The Westin Chennai Velachery

With more than a decade of experience, she has spearheaded key hirings across Accor and Marriott International in the past

The Westin Chennai Velachery has appointed Manjula Lakshmanan as the Assistant Director of Human resources. She started her career with Atlantic hotel as the Assistant Human resources and then later moved to Radisson Blu as Human resources executive. In 2015, she then joined Courtyard by Marriott Chennai as Assistant Manager and then moved on to Novotel & Ibis complex Chennai OMR as Talent and Culture Manager.

With more than a decades experience, Manjula has spearheaded key hiring’s across Accor and Marriott International in the past and is very well in Chennai for initiatives that she has taken that helps in staff care and career growth.

Manjula believes in healthy eating and her passion is Yoga and Travel.

Appointment | Thirumalai J is Chief Engineer at The Westin Chennai Velachery

He will ensure that all engineering processes are brand compliant and will promote wellness while remaining environment-conscious

The Westin Chennai Velachery has appointed Thirumalai J as the Chief Engineer.

With over 15 years of work experience, Thirumalai started his hospitality career with the Westin Hyderabad in 2011 where he was the assistant Maintenance manager, post which he moved to Escapes Kochi, Group of Relais Chateaux and the Le Royal Meriden Chennai as Chief Engineer. His last assignment was at Shoreview hospitality private limited.

At Westin Chennai, Thirumalai will spearhead the Engineering department, making sure the processes are brand compliant and at its best understanding the need of the hour and also promote wellness and be environment conscious.

Thirumalai speaks more than 5 languages and his passion is design engineering.

Appointment | Doubletree by Hilton Jaipur Amer appoints Dushyant Singh Naruka as Commercial Director

He will work towards optimising hotel revenue performance across the verticals of room sales, social and MICE business as well as creating strategic partnerships for marketing activations

DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur Amer has appointed Dushyant Singh Naruka as the Commercial Director. In his new role, he will work towards optimizing hotel revenue performance across the verticals of Room Sales, Social and MICE business as well as creating strategic partnerships for marketing activations.

Dushyant is armed with an experience of 15 years across international hotel brands like Marriott, IHG Hotels and Accor. Prior to this assignment, he worked as a Director of Sales and overlooked the sales and revenue growth strategies.

Dushyant possesses strong business expertise with an ability to execute a wide range of strategies to establish market presence and deliver profitability to the stakeholders. He will closely work with Food and Beverage team as well to enhance brand visibility and drive revenue for the segment.

Speaking on his new role, Dushyant said, “DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur Amer, As a wedding and meetings destination landmark is a perfect personification of world-class service and true hospitality. I will work towards enhancing brand reputation, curating thematic wedding experiences, driving innovative marketing campaigns and harnessing team’s strengths to achieve our goals. I am looking forward to reinforce relationship with industry partners and exploring for new opportunities and partnerships for the hotel.”

Neeraj Maharshi, General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur Amer  said, “We are delighted to have Dushyant on board and we are quite confident that he will strengthen hotel’s position in the highly competitive market by delivering innovative solutions. With his efficiency in market research and client engagement, we believe that he will lead the team impeccably.”

On a personal front, Dushyant is a globetrotter by nature and a food enthusiast and enjoys diverse genre music.

Appointment | Mohammad Shoib is Director of Sales and Marketing at JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa

He had been associated with the Marriott family for nine years as the Director of Sales and Marketing

JW Marriott has welcomed Mohammad Shoib as the Director of Sales and Marketing at the newly opened JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa. Having held various leadership roles in a career spanning over 14 years in the hotel industry, Shoib takes on this exciting role to create a new benchmark in service excellence in the South-Asia region.

Shoib had been associated with the Marriott family for nine years as the Director of Sales and Marketing. He was responsible for driving rooms, the food and beverage top line at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru. Prior to this role, Shoib spearheaded the Sales and Marketing department, in a similar capacity at The Leela Palace, Bangalore. He was also associated with Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront, and Ginger Hotel (A TATA Enterprise) and gained immense experience in the hospitality industry. He has also been awarded as DOSM of the year South Zone by Business World Hotelier 2019.

On his appointment as the Director of Sales and Marketing, Mohammad commented, “I am extremely thrilled and excited to be a part of the Marriott family. Marriott’s association with Prestige Group assures customers of a lavish and luxurious experience all under one roof. In my stint here with the luxury redefining JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, I will be working alongside my brilliant team to make this the best property in South Asia and raise the bar to newer heights.”

Shoib is a highly effective sales leader, gifted professional to build successful campaigns, increase market share and cement industry dominance for exacting customers. He is a focussed, performance-oriented manager with proven skills in project management, team building, stakeholder relations, and campaign optimization. His main goal is to pursue guests in innovative ways which promise a positive impact on sales. His fondness for resort hotels sparks from his love for being close to nature and believes there is more scope for creativity when working here.

Extremely fitness conscious, Shoib, the sales leader and a gifted professional believes in mental and physical wellness and in his free time enjoys taking frequent treks and likes counseling people for their mental wellbeing. Having spent three years in Bhutan in the laps of nature, he looks forward to the time away from gadgets and experiencing nature’s solitude.

Appointment | Chef Subhendu Kadam is Executive Chef at The Den, Bengaluru

The Den, Bengaluru part of Dan Hotels, Israel recently appointed Subhendu Kadam as the Executive Chef. Shubhendu is known for his innovations, experiential dining and Pasion for food. He has a creative spark and the ability to serve outside the box.

Shubhendu most recently has worked as a Cluster Executive chef with Hilton in Goa and is been leading the culinary brigade for the last 13 years as the Executive chef. He has been associated with some of the finest international brands like The Hyatt, Marriot, Intercontinental and Radisson and has also explored his carrier in cruise lines based in Florida.

Commenting on his appointment,  Vinesh Gupta, General Manager – The Den, Bengaluru said, “We are excited to have Subhendu in our team and will enable him to take the culinary legacy of Dan Hotels, Israel to the next level.”

Subhendu added, ‘I am very excited to be a part of The Den Bengaluru team and looking forward to work with the talent we have in our hotel. I believe that food should bring the ultimate joy to the guest.” A native of Karnataka, he loves traveling and is an avid follower of sports. 

Appointment | Guneeta Duggal joins JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove and Spa as Director of Sales and Marketing

Guneeta Duggal

Guneeta Duggal takes over the Director of Sales and Marketing role at JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove and Spa. With more than two decades of experience under her hat, she has a forward-thinking mindset and maintains a razor-sharp target-inclined focus.

Her experience across hotels and groups like Marriott Hotels India, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, The Westin Gurgaon, The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa, and Taj Hotels and Resorts and Spas (Delhi and Mumbai), has given her the opportunity to grow and learn across several different roles to deliver optimum results.

Through the years as she climbed the rungs from front office positions to directorial roles, she has provided exemplary customer services, maximized revenue in new markets, strengthened business with Fortune 500 clientele, and has constantly exceeded targets. Her strong arsenal of skills and expertise in strategy and planning, event management, MICE business development, team building and mentoring, and business development leadership, along with her inherent entrepreneurial and innovative spirit has brought her success, achievement, and recognition in the industry.

A true team player and leader in every way, she believes that a hotel is like machinery, and it takes a cohesive team to make achievements possible. For her, a leader is as strong as the team positions him or her to be, and every member plays their part in bridging the gap between success and failure.

As she begins this new journey at JW Marriott Mussoorie, she identifies that today’s traveler is craving experience and exploration over anything else, now more than ever before. She understands how the concept of experiential staycations are real game-changers, and those who have evolved their positioning and offerings are the future success stories of the industry.

Guests are looking for how an interesting experience can shape their holiday into a memorable one, and Guneeta believes a hotel can do that without being over the top, with subtle impact and unique ideas. “JW Marriott Mussoorie is an aspirational hotel to most visitors. I cannot describe this hotel better than as a multigenerational destination with an array of experiential offerings that make it stand out tall and strong,” she said.

According to her, it is the passion, perseverance, and dedication basis on which an organization and its leaders grow from strength to strength. After being in the Marriott ecosystem for over a decade she comes to Mussoorie with a renewed sense of commitment and zeal that we look forward to welcoming.

Appointment | Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks appoints Manish Uniyal As Executive Chef

Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks appoints Manish Uniyal As Executive Chef

He will not only focus on providing guests with a curated and immersive dining experience post the pandemic, but would also work towards redefining the hotel’s gastronomic offerings

Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks has appointed Manish Uniyal as the Executive Chef. He brings with him close to 22-years of experience in the hospitality industry. He commenced his hospitality journey with ITC hotels and has worked with reputed brands like Taj, Leela, Hyatt, and Radisson. In his last assignment, Uniyal worked as an Executive Chef with Hyatt Centric Bangalore.

A dynamic team leader and mentor, Chef Uniyal, in his current role, will be focusing not only on providing guests with a curated and immersive dining experience post the pandemic, but would also work towards redefining the hotel’s gastronomic offerings. He will also be responsible for supervising smooth functioning of the Food and Beverage outlets by curating exclusive Food Festivals that incorporate unique flavors and charisma.

“I am delighted to be a part of such an enthusiastic culinary team. My very first course of action would be to ensure that the hotel’s culinary experiences are addictive and our guests find some unparalleled dishes to please their palates at our outlets.” said Chef Manish Uniyal, Executive Chef, Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks.

FAIRMONT DUBAI INTRODUCES NEW UNIFORM DESIGN FOR HOTEL FRONT OF HOUSE STAFF AND RETIRES HEELS FOR FEMALE EMPLOYEES

FAIRMONT DUBAI INTRODUCES NEW UNIFORM DESIGN FOR HOTEL FRONT OF HOUSE STAFF AND RETIRES HEELS FOR FEMALE EMPLOYEES

No High heels policy; setting new standards of style and comfort

DUBAI, April 2022 - The Fairmont Dubai renewed the uniforms of their front of house staff; the reception desk, bell service staff, concierges, housekeeping and F&B. The hotel commissioned Dress Best Uniform and Corporate Wear, conceptualized by fashion designer, to redesign and create new stylish uniforms that would allow guests to experience the hotel’s concept of bringing lifestyle approach throughout the space. With input from the hotel, the design concept translated into the trendy, vibrant and yet functional uniforms that guests now see on the associates, from the doormen to the guest relations.

Fashion has made a glorious entry into the hotel with the collection being designed with a modern spin. Drawing on the lifestyle modern feel and theme, the new uniforms highlights a neutral color palette, with warm tone shades. For the female staff, the uniform designs feature trendy white sneakers that adapts to the new policy of no more high heels for maximum comfort all day long as part of the new look.

“Having the honor of designing the entire uniforms for this renowned brand has been a dream,” said Koray Duman Sales Director Mena of Dress Best Uniform and Corporate Wear. “My team and I have been working with Fairmont Dubai for months to truly understand the voice and culture of the brand to best create unforms for the property’s diverse team, ensuring they are as comfortable and at ease at work, allowing them to move effortlessly, while still looking chic and stylish. 

Throughout the property, uniforms will reflect modern fashion for both men and women with well-tailored pieces. “People are at the heart of all of at Fairmont Dubai and when our people feel their best, they help make guest experiences the best they can be. So, we made it a priority to design uniforms that did just that for our team members; we always care about their comfort and convenience,” explained Kosta Kourotsidis, General Manager of Fairmont Dubai. “We are proud to partner with Dress Best Uniforms and Corporate Wear to outfit the team in comfortable, stylish, and elevated look design, true to the Fairmont spirit and that are an extension of the property’s overall brand story of “The New Fairmont Feeling”.

About Fairmont Dubai

Fairmont Dubai is an icon in Dubai, located in the heart of the shopping capital of the Middle East and on the land of perennial sunshine and pristine beaches. Conveniently located, Fairmont Dubai is just 10 minutes away from the world’s largest shopping centre – The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, the tallest man-made structure in the world, and the Dubai Fountains, which shoots water as high as a 50-storey building. The hotel is also directly connected to the metro system and is linked to the convention and exhibition areas of the Dubai World Trade Centre by a covered, air-conditioned bridge.

Modeled after an Arabic wind tower (barajeel), this 34 story property features 394 guestrooms and suites, in addition to thirteen contemporary dining and entertainment venues, offering guests an array of gastronomic delights to amuse the palate.

For the business or leisure traveller seeking tranquility and relaxation, Fairmont Dubai features a Health Club and two rooftop swimming pools, providing breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset over an ever-changing Dubai skyline.

Appointment | Kimberly Fernandez appointed as Marketing and Communications Manager at Hyatt Regency Chennai

Kimberly Fernandez appointed as Marketing and Communications Manager at Hyatt Regency Chennai

Hyatt Regency Chennai has appointed Kimberly Fernandez as the newly appointed Marketing and Communications Manager. She will be responsible to lead diverse marketing and PR activities. Her role engages her to promote visibility and enliven the Food and Beverage presence of award-winning restaurants and Spas on our property.

She has had previous work terms with Novotel Ahmedabad, Zak Trade Fairs and Exhibitions in Chennai, and Care World TV in Mumbai. While engulfing all this rich experience proudly, Kimberly has been a thorough Media and Communications professional. Her hobbies of music, singing, photography and travelling characterize her driving force toward her profession. Speaking on her appointment at Hyatt Chennai, she asserts, “I am thrilled to have joined the Hyatt family and look forward to partaking on this journey of learning and growing at Hyatt Regency Chennai.”

Ahuja Residences ties up with a skilling NGO to support the ‘Skill India’ initiative The first batch of the upskilling program held in Daslana, Ahmedabad

Ahuja Residences ties up with a skilling NGO to support the ‘Skill India’ initiative The first batch of the upskilling program held in Daslana, Ahmedabad

April 2022, Gujarat: Ahuja Residences and its sub-brand Yuhi Hospitality Services have joined hands with the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) to support the ‘Skill India’ development initiative. The certification of the first batch of its upskilling program was held on Thursday, April 14th, 2022, in Daslana, Ahmedabad. Ahuja Residences and Yuhi Hospitality Services signed an MoU with THSC to recruit and upskill 50+ underprivileged people from the country’s Northeast and train them at different Ahuja Residences and Yuhi Hospitality properties in Ahmedabad, Chennai, Pune, and Gurugram. Among the skillsets, the program is focusing on are front office, food & beverage (service), and housekeeping.

The training program has been established with an eye on specific job roles, better alignment to company culture, and, more importantly, an outcome-based training model. The candidates have been hired as apprentices from day one under the National Apprentice Promotion Scheme (NAPS), and are given a healthy stipend along with other facilities, including uniform, meals, accommodation and medical services, etc.

The program will benefit people from underprivileged backgrounds and offer them a chance to build toward a better future. It will enable them to advance their skills and provide them employment, while also making it easier for them to land jobs in the future and open doors to further opportunities.

Jaideep Ahuja, MD, and CEO of Ahuja Residences said, “In the changing times and with the bouncing back of the hospitality industry, there is a pressing need for skilled and qualified young labour which is difficult to procure by conventional market practices. To fill this vacuum, THSC together with NAPS has created a potential and viable solution, which will help in the quick revival of the hospitality industry.”

About Ahuja Residences

Providing hospitable accommodation solutions for 40 years, Ahuja Residences has served over half a million customers and aspires to be India’s leading provider of extended-stay and budget accommodations. Offering innovative, reliable, cost-effective and customised services to corporate and individual customers, Ahuja Residences aims to be the brand of choice for the value-conscious traveller.  The brand is one of India's leading providers of quality boutique hotels, corporate housing and serviced apartments in Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Pune, Rohtak, Ahmedabad and Sricity (Andhra Pradesh) . One of India's premier signatures in the sphere of hospitality and related services, Ahuja Residences offers over 300 properties across the country, with more than 1,000 fine suites and rooms dotting the tourist’s and corporate traveller’s map. Over the years, Ahuja Residences hotels have been consistently rated among the top performers in their category by TripAdvisor and MakeMyTrip.

The brand has service apartments in some of the finest neighbourhoods in South Delhi, like Vasant Vihar, Anand Niketan, Golf Links, Defence Colony, etc. and also in Sector-44 at Noida and at the condominium complexes in Gurugram such as Park Place, The Crest, Belaire and others. Ahuja Residences boutique hotels are located in the most exclusive neighborhoods of Golf Links and Sunder Nagar in New Delhi and DLF City Phase-1 and 2 in Gurugram. AR Suites, the company’s suite-only brand, operates properties in Kalyani Nagar in Pune, and Noida. It recently launched a 97-room property in Pune called AR Suites Jewels Royale and 58 rooms property in Gurugram, Air-Conscious living by Ahuja Residences.

In addition to providing Serviced Apartments to Expats, especially Japanese Clients, Ahuja’s subsidiary company, Yuhi Hospitality Services, provide short term accommodations through its boutique Japanese hotels across the country and operates facilities in Gurugram, Rohtak, Hoshiarpur, Sricity (an SEZ) in Andhra Pradesh and have recently started its operations at Daslana, near Ahmedabad in Gujarat.

Appointment | Hyatt Centric Goa Announced the appointment of Suvarna Dessai as the Housekeeping Manager

She brings an experience of over 13 years in the housekeeping operations, with a long stint of 11 years with Hyatt Hotels and Corporations

In this role, Dessai will be spearheading the Housekeeping department and will be responsible for handling the overall housekeeping operations of the hotel. She is keen on maintaining and upholding all brand standards and aiming to provide exceptional service and work as part of the team to achieve great success and deliver lasting memories to all guests elevating their overall stay experience.

Dessai brings with her an experience of over 13 years in housekeeping operations, with a long stint of 11 years with Hyatt Hotels & Corporations.

She says, “My motto is team building such that each individual’s contributions are highlighted and recognized, all converging at the common goal of highest guest satisfaction levels at all times. This ultimately leads to increased productivity which reflects teamwork.”

Dessai is known to be passionate about home décor as well as enjoys bicycle rides and playing badminton.

Appointment | Anirban Dasgupta is Executive Chef at JW Marriott Pune

He will lead the hotel's culinary operations along with extending his repertoire toward experiential and gastronomic Food and Beverage concepts

Anirban Dasgupta has joined JW Marriott Hotel Pune as the Executive Chef. An extremely zealous and driven hospitality professional and culinary maestro, he has over 21 years of work experience in the culinary domain. His culinary dexterity extends across a wide range of local and global cuisines incorporating Indian, East Asian, Japanese, Italian, and the Mediterranean.

Chef Anirban is a specialist in developing unique dining concepts and adapting sustainable cooking techniques based on his food philosophy -‘Locally Sourced, Globally Inspired!’. His extensive travels across India have instilled a better understanding of different food cultures in him, helping him to thus evolve as a culinary expert with profound knowledge in various cuisines. 

As the Executive Chef, he will lead the hotel’s culinary operations which include the award-winning restaurants, the banquet kitchen, and in-room dining operations along with extending his repertoire towards experiential and gastronomic food and beverage concepts.

Anirban is an avid melophile, a passionate cinephile, and also enjoys watching football in his spare time.

Appointment |Clinton D’Souza joins St. Regis Downtown Dubai as Fn'B manager

Clinton D’Souza has joined Marriott International through the St. Regis Downtown Dubai. The long-time restaurant professional comes in as F&B manager of four outlets. He will oversee Basta, Bleu Blanc, The St. Regis Bar, The Library, and in-room dining.

Clinton D’Souza’s experience

In 2009, D’Souza joined the Four Seasons Hotel in Mumbai where his first hospitality experience began as a server. After five years, he was promoted to an in-room dining supervisor and later transferred to the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach in 2014. He joined as a food and beverage supervisor and was promoted two years later to the assistant in-room dining manager.

In 2019, D’Souza became the dining manager implementing a new brunch, further campaigns to increase revenue, and improved the reservation system leading to an increased footfall, increased guest satisfaction, and restaurant covers. In 2020, he has been promoted to restaurant manager and dark kitchen manager, where he participated in a new online takeaway project, developed marketing plans, implemented new menus, and led health, safety, and sanitation procedures.