Hilton Jaipur welcomes new Chief Engineer – Naveen Shekhawat

Naveen brings extensive experience in pre-openings, large-scale renovations, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of advanced technologies.

Naveen Shekhawat joins Hilton Jaipur as its new Chief Engineer. Naveen’s extensive career spanning 20 years boasts a proven track record in operations, maintenance, energy conservation, project management, and fire and life safety. He has built an impressive portfolio, working with prestigious brands such as Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.

As an accomplished engineering professional, Naveen is deeply committed to cultivating a secure and welcoming environment. He leverages his vast expertise and in-depth understanding of sophisticated engineering protocols to ensure the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency. His comprehensive experience spans pre-openings, large-scale renovations, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies. Naveen’s unwavering dedication to preserving the hotel’s assets and elevating product quality has been instrumental in his success across the industry’s most revered brands.

Commenting on his new role, Naveen said, “This is a truly exciting opportunity, and I am eager to bring my expertise and passion to Hilton Jaipur. My primary focus will be on maintaining the highest levels of quality and comfort for our guests and team, while also prioritizing our environmental and social responsibilities.”

Rahul Bhagat, General Manager of Hilton Jaipur, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Naveen to our leadership team. His extensive background in engineering, combined with his unwavering commitment to excellence and product quality, makes him the ideal leader for this role. With Naveen guiding our engineering operations, we are confident that Hilton Jaipur will continue to be a premier destination that prioritizes guest experience while upholding sustainability in all our engineering efforts.”

Mohammed Saleem Gafoor Joins Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru as Executive Pastry Chef

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is pleased to announce the appointment of Mohammed Saleem Gafoor as the new Executive Pastry Chef. With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality and a career that has spanned renowned international properties, Chef Saleem is set to bring a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and passion for pastry arts to the hotel’s esteemed culinary team.

Having worked with prestigious brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Ritz-Carlton, and Le-Royal Meridien, Chef Saleem has built a stellar reputation throughout his career. Most recently, he served as the Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotel & Resort Doha, where he led the pastry division for nearly a decade. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative dessert creations, Chef Saleem has worked with world-class teams and handled large-scale events, including the FIFA 2022 preparations in Qatar. His exposure across various Four Seasons properties, including cross-training in Mauritius and Bahrain, has equipped him with a unique global perspective, which aligns with Four Seasons’ commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences.

Commenting on his new role, Chef Saleem said, “I am honoured to join the talented team at Four Seasons Bengaluru. I look forward to continuing the legacy of excellence in pastry and elevating the dessert experience for our guests with my signature creations.”

The team at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is excited to welcome Chef Saleem as he embarks on this new chapter, bringing his innovative techniques and deep passion for pastry to the forefront of the hotel’s renowned culinary offerings.

Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West Appoints Mr. Nikhil Pol as the Chief Engineer

Mumbai, November 2024 –  Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s distinctive portfolio, is honored to announce the appointment of Mr. Nikhil Pol as the Chief Engineer.With nearly a decade of experience across several distinguished properties, Nikhil Pol brings a deep expertise in engineering and facility management that will be pivotal in driving operational excellence at Moxy Mumbai. 

Nikhil began his career in hospitality engineering as a Graduate Engineering Trainee with Taj Hotels, where he quickly distinguished himself. His first role was at the renowned Taj Fort Aguada, Goa, where he handled guest room renovations and rose to the position of Engineer. Nikhil then transitioned to the Ambassador - IHCL SeleQtions, New Delhi, where he served as Deputy Engineer for three years, honing his skills in maintenance and engineering coordination at a high-profile property.

Following his tenure in Delhi, Nikhil joined The Leela Goa as Deputy Chief Engineer and played an integral role in the seamless conversion of the property into The St. Regis Goa Resort. This accomplishment highlighted his commitment to quality and his capacity for overseeing complex transitions within high-demand hospitality environments.

As Chief Engineer at Moxy Mumbai, Nikhil will leverage his extensive technical knowledge and operational insights to ensure smooth coordination with the projects team, overseeing all technical aspects of the hotel’s operations. His role will be crucial in upholding Moxy’s standards for efficiency, innovation, and guest satisfaction through strategic engineering and maintenance practices.

Nikhil Pol’s appointment underscores Moxy Mumbai’s commitment to providing guests with a reliable and meticulously maintained environment, reflective of Marriott’s high standards. His proven track record in engineering excellence and hands-on approach make him an ideal leader for Moxy Mumbai’s energetic and inclusive ethos. Nikhil’s expertise will undoubtedly contribute to establishing Moxy Mumbai as a premier destination for modern travelers seeking a stylish and spirited experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, appoints Mahesh MS as Director of Engineering

Mahesh is known for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, has appointed Mahesh MS as the new Director of Engineering. With over 15 years of operational experience and a key presence at the hotel since 2019, Mahesh’s leadership continues to elevate the hotel’s commitment to excellence and luxury in hospitality.

Mahesh’s journey in the industry began at Ananda in the Himalayas before he joined Marriott in 2013 as Assistant Chief Engineer. He joined The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, in 2019 and rose through the ranks to the role of Chief Engineer in 2022, advancing to Assistant Director of Engineering in 2023, and now leading as Director of Engineering.

Reuben Kataria, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, expressed his confidence in the new leadership, stating, “As we welcome our new Director of Engineering, we recognize the significant impact of his expertise in our operations. An experienced leader who has risen through the ranks, Mahesh brings a profound understanding of our brand values. His technical acumen will not only elevate our operational excellence but also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to sustainable practices.”

Having played key roles at esteemed properties such as Marriott Resort & Spa Coorg, Le Méridien Hyderabad, and Fairfield Sriperumbudur, Mahesh is recognized for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability.

With Mahesh in this leadership role, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, looks forward to building on its dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences and responsible environmental practices.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Yogesh Pawar as General Manager – Procurement

Mumbai, November, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Yogesh Pawar as the new General Manager - Procurement. With over 21 years of extensive experience in procurement and supply chain management, Mr. Pawar will play a crucial role in developing and executing procurement strategies that align with The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ business goals, while also contributing to the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.

In his new role, Mr. Pawar will be responsible for developing comprehensive procurement plans, identifying and evaluating potential suppliers, negotiating strategic sourcing contracts, and improving supply chain visibility and performance across the company’s operations. His focus will also include optimizing costs, managing budgets, and implementing sustainable procurement practices that align with The Fern Hotels & Resorts' environmentally conscious brand values.

Mr. Pawar brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having worked with some of the most respected names in the hospitality industry such as Soho House Mumbai and The Accor Group, where he held senior positions. His in-depth understanding of procurement principles, strategies, and best practices, combined with a proven ability to align procurement functions with organizational goals, positions him as an invaluable addition to The Fern Hotels & Resorts team.

With a strong background in managing complex supply chains, negotiating contracts, and fostering relationships with vendors, Mr. Pawar is also highly experienced in implementing socially responsible and sustainable procurement practices. Mr. Pawar’s appointment underscores The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ continued commitment to building a robust, cost-effective, and sustainable procurement strategy across all its properties.

Shyam Kumar appointed as the new General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield

Shyam Kumar has been appointed as the General manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield. Shyam brings with him over two decades of experience in managing Luxury and Upscale Hotels. In his last role as General manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Agra he spearheaded hotels growth, performance and expansion making it the preferred destination for Upscale weddings and leisure travellers. His innovation and strategic foresight helped elevate hotels reputation in the region.

Familiar with Bengaluru market , Shyam started his Hilton journey with Conrad Bengaluru as Director of Operations where he played crucial role in establishing the iconic hotel as a luxury destination before moving to Agra. 

Prior to this, he was associated with renowned brands such as Shangri-La, Sheraton, JW Marriott in India and New Zealand. With a strong Food & Beverage background, Shyam is very dynamic and a risk-taking leader who always strives to drive innovation at every work place. 

Shyam strongly believes in workplace diversity and inclusion, connecting back with local communities. DoubleTree by Hilton Agra has given stable jobs to 5 specially-abled team members and first Hilton Hotel in India to work with Transgenders. He strongly believes that business is all about spreading light and warmth of hospitality between all stake holders. Personalisation and eye to detail is the new definition of luxury as per him. Empowering team to perform their best is the key leadership style for Shyam.

Fitness, Music and books are his passion outside of hospitality. He also spends his Sunday morning riding his bike as he always feels each person should spend time some quality time alone to discover our own self. He also likes to travel and explore heritage and spiritual places. 

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Pratesh Patil as General Manager – Operations (South & East India)

Mumbai, November 14, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Pratesh Patil as the new General Manager - Operations for South & East India. In this strategic role, Mr. Patil will oversee the operations and management of The Fern Hotels & Resorts' current and expanding portfolio of properties across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala.

With two decades of rich experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Patil brings a wealth of knowledge in operations management, team leadership, and business strategy. His appointment comes at an important time as The Fern Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its footprint and enhance its offerings in the southern and eastern regions of India. Mr. Patil’s primary focus will be on driving operational excellence, ensuring the delivery of exceptional guest experiences, enhancing service quality, and fostering sustainable practices at the company's properties. He will also play a pivotal role in aligning operational strategies with the brand's broader vision of growth and sustainability.

Before joining The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Mr. Patil held senior leadership roles with prestigious hospitality brands including Marriott International and The Accor Group. His expertise in operational efficiency, revenue management, and strategic planning has enabled him to drive significant improvements in guest satisfaction and operational profitability in his previous roles. Mr. Patil’s deep understanding of both luxury and business hotel segments, along with his focus on operational sustainability, aligns perfectly with the core values of The Fern Hotels & Resorts.

His strategic vision and leadership will be key to driving the company’s long-term growth in these vibrant regions. With Mr. Patil’s appointment, the company is poised to further enhance its operational capabilities and solidify its position as a preferred choice for guests seeking both luxury and sustainability.

IBIS Styles ibis Mysuru appoints Ganeshram Iyer as Hotel Manager

National, November  2024 – ibis Styles Mysuru is pleased to welcome Mr. Ganeshram Iyer as its new Hotel Manager. With an impressive 21-year career in the hospitality industry, Mr. Iyer brings extensive expertise in enhancing operational efficiency, elevating guest satisfaction, and driving financial performance across luxury and midscale hotel segments.

Prior to joining ibis Styles Mysuru, Mr. Ganeshram served as Director of Operations at Novotel Chennai SIPCOT. His illustrious career also includes pivotal roles at prominent brands such as Radisson, Holiday Inn, and Hyatt. Mr. Ganeshram who is known for his energetic leadership, is skilled at crafting and implementing effective operational strategies. A dedicated mentor, he is committed to talent development, having successfully nurtured Head of Departments and second-line leaders, establishing a robust leadership pipeline.

Mr. Ganeshram’s expertise spans critical areas such as hotel operations management, team leadership, guest satisfaction, revenue optimization, and compliance with health and safety standards. His strategic abilities in budgeting, financial planning, and sales and marketing position him as an asset to ibis Styles Mysuru’s mission of service excellence.

Mr. Ganeshram holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Aurangabad University and has completed advanced professional courses in leadership and revenue management. His strengths in team leadership, cost control, and enhancing guest experiences align seamlessly with ibis Styles Mysuru’s commitment to operational excellence.

He is excited to bring his passion for hospitality and dedication to service excellence to ibis Styles Mysuru, contributing to its continued success and growth. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, exploring authentic local cuisine, and watching movies.

Holiday Inn Agra Appointed Sachin Dhingra as the New General Manager

Holiday Inn Agra is thrilled to announce the joining of Sachin Dhingra who is taking the helm of hotel operations as the General Manager at Holiday Inn Agra.

Sachin brings with him over two decades of distinguished experience, marked by an exceptional track record as a turnaround specialist. He has consistently transformed projects with a strategic focus on Sales and Marketing that has delivered exceptional results. With 9 years of output-driven expertise in General Management, Sachin has excelled across Finance, Operations, Sales, and HR in both national and international settings, demonstrating leadership that enhances ROI, Guest Satisfaction, and Employee Engagement. 

His career includes noteworthy roles such as General Manager at Boudl Hotels & Resorts, Saudi Arabia, Radisson Bangalore, Multi-Property General Manager for Radisson & Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites, New Delhi. Director of Food & Beverage across top brands in India and Dubai, including Jaypee Hotels, Radisson, and Arabian Courtyard Hotel.

Sachin’s achievements are underscored by industry recognition, including the Top Performer Award at Boudl Hotels & Resorts, and F&B Manager of the Year (2014) by Hotelier India. His expertise extends to operational excellence, pre-opening success, and revenue enhancement, as demonstrated by his impressive results at Boudl Hotels, where he surpassed pre-opening revenue targets and enhanced the hotel’s GSI.

Sachin holds a Master’s in Tourism Management from IGNOU and a Diploma in Hotel Management from Thiruvananthapuram. He also completed the Chief Operating Officer Certification from IIM Lucknow in 2023, further strengthening his leadership foundation.

On a personal note, Sachin is happily married to Charu, and they are blessed with two daughters, Krishika (13) and Eshani (8). In his leisure time, he enjoys practicing Dhyana Yoga, driving, and reading on topics related to psychology, finance, and management.

Sarovar Premiere Amritsar appoints Abhilash Menon as General Manager

Sarovar Premiere Amritsar has appointed Abhilash Menon as the General Manager. Abhilash began his journey with Taj Hotels in 2006, after graduating from the IHM Jaipur. His career has been marked by significant milestones, including his tenure at the iconic Leela Gurgaon, others where he played a pivotal role in managing the Food and Beverage portfolio, during high-profile events, such as the visits of two US Presidents and the Various Country heads, along with numerous other heads of state. 

Guided by the hospitality philosophy of India – “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means "the guest is God". Abhilash has been committed to enhancing guest experiences and positioning the hotel as a premier luxury destination in Amritsar. He aims to cultivate a culture of excellence and innovation, ensuring every guest experience is memorable and unique. 

A versatile hotelier and confident individual, Abhilash is known for confidently managing medium to large-scale hotel operations and bringing a wealth of leadership experience to the industry.

Expressing his enthusiasm about his new role, Abhilash said, “I am honoured to join Sarovar Premiere Amritsar and excited to open the first Sarovar Premiere in Punjab. My vision is to build a vibrant and dynamic environment where guests get a refreshed experience every time they step in. Together with my team, I aim to establish Sarovar Premiere Amritsar as a benchmark for hospitality in Amritsar.”

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Anurag Agarwal as Finance Controller

Holiday Inn Agra is delighted to announce the appointment of Anurag Agarwal as our new Finance Controller. With over 12 years of experience in finance across prestigious hospitality brands like Double Tree by Hilton Agra and The Oberoi Amarvilas, Anurag’s leadership, expertise, and dedication are set to elevate our property’s operational standards.

Anurag holds a Master’s degree in Accounting from Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, Agra, which has further enriched his expertise and knowledge in the field. With a commitment to sustainable growth and financial integrity, Anurag is well-positioned to make a significant impact at Holiday Inn Agra. We look forward to seeing his leadership and expertise in action as he takes on this vital role.

Beyond his professional achievements, Anurag treasures quality time with his wonderful family, including his wife and daughter. He also has a passion for travel, always eager to explore new places and experiences.

We are excited to have Anurag on board and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to Holiday Inn Agra.

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Ram Narayan Singh as IT Manager

Holiday Inn Agra is excited to welcome Ram Narayan Singh as the new IT Manager. With an extensive background in technology management and digital innovation, Ram Narayan is set to lead our IT operations and drive transformative initiatives that will enhance our systems and support our growth.

Ram Narayan brings over 17 years of experience in IT & Network Management within the hospitality industry, having previously worked with leading hotels such as The Park, Radisson Blu, Country Inn & Suites, and Jaypee Greens Golf Spa & Resorts. With his extensive experience across hotel systems and applications. He is fully prepared to deliver outstanding results.

In this role, Ram Narayan will oversee IT strategy, infrastructure, and security while fostering a seamless and secure digital environment across the organization. His focus on innovation, efficiency, and resilience will help Holiday Inn Agra to maintain a competitive edge and adapt to new technological advancements.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ram Narayan cherishes time with his family—his wife and daughter. He is also enthusiastic about cricket and has a keen interest in exploring new technologies.

We’re thrilled to have Ram Narayan on board to lead our IT initiatives and ensure we continue to meet the highest standards in technology and security.

Khizer Khan joins DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad as new Hotel Manager

Khizer brings over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry and great enthusiasm to his role
DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad has appointed Khizer Khan as its new Hotel Manager. With over 17 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Khizer brings a wealth of knowledge and a dynamic leadership approach to the role.

Khizer has worked with some of the most esteemed brands in the industry, including Marriott in London Kensington, Hilton at London Heathrow Airport, and Hampton by Hilton in London Waterloo. His impressive career spans various leadership positions, providing him with a deep understanding of hotel operations and guest services and driving operational excellence across diverse environments.

“I love the challenge of overseeing the entire operation and ensuring everything runs smoothly. I thrive on building a strong team and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. It’s rewarding to develop strategies that enhance guest satisfaction while driving the hotel’s success,” says Khizer. “Each day brings new opportunities to innovate and improve, keeping my passion for hospitality alive and vibrant.”

In his new role, Khizer will oversee all aspects of operations at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening the hotel’s reputation for exceptional service.

Khizer’s passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and staff complements his vision of building a culture of excellence. His strong commitment to collaboration and innovation makes him the perfect fit to lead the hotel into its next chapter.

Kamat Hotels India promotes Upender Gupta to Executive Sous Chef

India’s leading hospitality brand, Kamat Hotels India Ltd has promoted Chef Upender Gupta as the Executive Sous Chef at The Orchid Hotel Shimla. 

With 20 years of culinary expertise, Upender's journey is a story of passion, growth, and commitment to excellence. He began his career at Baikunth Resort, Kasauli, where he mastered the flavors of Indian curries and grills. His love for outdoor cooking blossomed here, and was further refined during his time at Club Mahindra Resorts, where he transformed dining experiences across several properties.

Since joining The Orchid Hotel Shimla in 2022, Upender has stood out for his creativity and leadership. His performance as the HoD has earned him this promotion. 

“I’m excited to lead our talented kitchen team and create memorable dining experiences for our esteemed guests. I look forward to exploring new culinary ideas and continuing to deliver sustainable and top-quality cuisine,” he shares. 

The Orchid Hotel Shimla is confident that his leadership will inspire the team and enhance the guest experience further.

The St. Regis Mumbai Welcomes Dhiraj Amin as the New Director of Sales

Mumbai, November 2024: The St. Regis Mumbai is pleased to announce the appointment of Dhiraj Amin as the new Director Of Sales, boasting an illustrious career spanning across 14 years of exceptional experience in the hospitality industry. 

Dhiraj brings with him a wealth of experience in creating, leading and conceptualizing a team. Having started his journey as a Management Trainee Sales at Svenska Design Hotel, Dhiraj has greatly contributed in fostering growth at prestigious hospitality chains such as JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai and Waterstones Hotel & Resort Mumbai. In his previous role as the Director of Sales at Sofitel Mumbai BKC, he excelled in developing comprehensive business and sales strategies in pursuit of new opportunities of growth, led the day to day functions of the Sales Department, and produced, implemented and monitored action plans to ensure budget plan and forecast objectives were well achieved. 

Notably, Dhiraj was recognized as a Marriott Presidents Circle Winner in 2016, underscoring his commitment to excellence in sales. His strong communication skills and leadership capabilities position him well to drive the hotel’s sales initiatives forward and enhance the guest experience at The St. Regis Mumbai. 

With his proven track record of continuously delivering long-term results and his unwavering dedication towards achieving excellence, Dhiraj Amin is well-equipped to lead the sales team at The St. Regis Mumbai. His ability to inspire and motivate others, combined with his strategic vision, will be instrumental in enhancing the brand’s reputation in the hospitality industry. We are excited to see the positive impact he will make as he embarks on this new chapter with us.  

The St. Regis Mumbai welcomes Dhiraj’s perspective and insights, anticipating his valuable contributions to the esteemed establishment. 

Sidharth Kaul Appointed as Multi Property Director of Sales & Marketing for JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golf shire Resort & Spa, Mulberry Shades, Bengaluru and Moxy, Bengaluru

~Kaul will be leading three diverse hotel & resorts in this newly appointed role at Marriott International~

Bengaluru, 04 November,2024: Marriott International, India is pleased to announce the appointment of Sidharth Kaul as Multi Property Director of Sales & Marketing for JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, Mulberry Shades Bengaluru, Nandi Hills, A Tribute Portfolio Resort and Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud. With an illustrious career spanning over 18 years, Sidharth brings a fresh and experienced perspective to the team, further strengthening the hotel’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and brand leadership. 

Prior to joining his current role, Sidharth held the position of Director of Sales & Marketing at JW Marriott Bengaluru UB City, where he spearheaded the team and drove significant growth and innovative sales & marketing strategies. In his new role, Sidharth will oversee the strategic sales, marketing and business operations, and will lead all the aspects of sales and marketing department in these three distinct hotels of Marriott International in Bengaluru. He will also be overseeing and managing a sizable team across three properties.

With a proven record of accomplishment at renowned International & Indian hotel chains, his result-oriented approach is what drove his team to perform exceedingly well and orchestrated key events in all segments complimented by his analytical approach to sales and marketing. 

“I am grateful for continuing my work with my Marriott family and thrilled to step into this stimulating role to manage three popular and distinct hotels, contributing to the continued success of these properties,” said Kaul. 

Ronan Fearon, General Manager of JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa remarked, “Our properties are poised to enhance the travel experience for all our guests.  With Sidharth joining the team, I am excited about the wealth of knowledge and expertise he brings from the industry. His contributions will be instrumental in positioning all three properties as leaders in their categories.”

JW Marriott Goa announces the appointment of Annam Lubana as Director of Operations.

Bringing in over a decade of experience in the hospitality sector, JW Marriott Goa announces the appointment of Annam Lubana as Director of Operations.

With extensive experience in luxury hotels, Annam began her career in the rooms division, where her strong leadership skills with a strategic guest focused disposition stood out. This propelled her ascent to the position of Director of Operations, rapidly advancing through roles at renowned properties such as JW Marriott Pune, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar and The Oberoi Group of Hotels. Recognized for her inspiring leadership, Annam consistently garners the respect and admiration of colleagues and stakeholders.

Annam has been pivotal in driving guest satisfaction, boosting loyalty program performance, and optimizing department profitability. Her commitment to excellence is highlighted by her wins as a Digital Guest Experiences Trailblazer, representing the Asia Pacific region and her recognition as the Operations Leader of the Year in 2023. At JW Marriott Goa, she will oversee key operations departments, including Food & Beverage, Culinary, Front Office, Housekeeping and Spa, with a focus on delivering the brand’s hallmark of exceptional service. She has been with Marriott International for the last several years and has a strong foundation and understanding of the JW Marriott brand.

Annam will focus on the revenue and reputation of JW Marriott Goa, helming a dynamic operational team and leading them to create exceptional moments for each guest. She will strategize with the team to achieve high guest satisfaction scores, drive Brand Standard audit performance, enhance and maximize operational profitability and productivity.

Armed with a Post-Graduate Diploma from the prestigious Oberoi Centre of Learning & Development and a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai, she is the proud winner of the T.R Oberoi Gold Medal in Academic Excellence as a Guest Services Management Associate. At JW Marriott Goa she will aim to work towards efficiency and consumer satiation.

Annam is passionate about visiting new destinations to explore diverse cultures and experience renowned dining Venues and Bars. She enjoys a spot of reading in her spare time and is an ardent animal lover.

Chalet Hotels Limited appoints Shwetank Singh as Executive Director

Mumbai, October 2024: Chalet Hotels Limited (CHL) announced the appointment of Shwetank Singh as Executive Director, inducting Shwetank into the Board of the Company. The appointment is pursuant to recommendation of the Compensation, Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Company and effective immediately for a period of three years, subject to approval by Shareholders of the Company.

In his enhanced role, Shwetank will continue to lead functions of projects, design and business development and will also spearhead the teams of operations and asset management. In addition, Shwetank will also oversee CHL’s Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.

Sanjay Sethi, Managing Director & CEO, Chalet Hotels Limited, said: “In line with our endeavour to groom and grow our internal talent, Shwetank has been inducted into the board of Chalet Hotels Limited and given additional responsibilities of operations and our ESG initiatives. We look forward to his continued contribution to the growth of the Company.”

An alumnus of Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) with an MBA in Finance and Marketing, Shwetank has held key leadership positions at some of the best globally recognized organizations.

Kamat Hotels India promotes Upender Gupta to Executive Sous Chef

India’s leading hospitality brand, Kamat Hotels India Ltd has promoted Chef Upender Gupta as the Executive Sous Chef at The Orchid Hotel Shimla.

With 20 years of culinary expertise, Upender's journey is a story of passion, growth, and commitment to excellence. He began his career at Baikunth Resort, Kasauli, where he mastered the flavors of Indian curries and grills. His love for outdoor cooking blossomed here, and was further refined during his time at Club Mahindra Resorts, where he transformed dining experiences across several properties.

Since joining The Orchid Hotel Shimla in 2022, Upender has stood out for his creativity and leadership. His performance as the HoD has earned him this promotion.

“I’m excited to lead our talented kitchen team and create memorable dining experiences for our esteemed guests. I look forward to exploring new culinary ideas and continuing to deliver sustainable and top-quality cuisine,” he shares.

The Orchid Hotel Shimla is confident that his leadership will inspire the team and enhance the guest experience further.

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is pleased to introduce Monal Prabhu as the newly appointed Director of Sales & Marketing

Mumbai, October 2024:  JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is pleased to introduce Monal Prabhu as the newly appointed Director of Sales & Marketing. With an illustrious career spanning over 14+ years, Monal brings a fresh and experienced perspective to the team, further strengthening the hotel’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and brand leadership. 

With a well-rounded experience across sales, business analytics, event management and marketing, Monal has elevated through different leadership roles in various segments of the hospitality industry. Over the course of her 14 years professional journey, Monal has had a successful tenure with hotel chains like Oberoi and Accor. Having started her exceptional journey with sales in 2011 at The Oberoi, Mumbai as a Banquet Sales Associate, to driving the Catering Sales Team at Sofitel Mumbai BKC for 6 years, Monal has navigated through the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry. 

Monal joined the Marriott International family at The St. Regis Mumbai in 2020 as Associate Director of Catering Sales, where she led the team to exceed budgets exponentially and strategically. She was then appointed the Director of Sales, driving the hotel to achieve a positive market share. Her result-oriented approach is what drove her team to perform exceedingly well. Monal’s expertise in orchestrating corporate events, group gatherings, and weddings is complemented by her analytical approach to sales and marketing. This unique combination has significantly enriched her well-rounded knowledge and strong skill set.

In her appointment as the new Director of Sales & Marketing at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, Monal will be responsible for ensuring the hotel’s distinguished reputation is further solidified and expanded. She will lead initiatives to enhance brand awareness, guest engagement, and market reach, along with, driving revenue growth by identifying new business opportunities, nurturing client relationships, and implementing effective sales strategies that align with the hotel's goals. 

Constantly seeking to expand her skills and knowledge, Monal dedicates her spare time to creating engaging reels, doodling, and exploring new destinations. Her passion for learning and creativity beautifully complements her vibrant personality.