Preeti Makhija has been appointed as the General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi

Preeti Makhija has been appointed as the General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi, a prestigious step in her journey with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. Having joined The Leela group in 2011, Preeti brings extensive experience and operational expertise to her new role.

Preeti began her journey with The Leela Palace New Delhi during its pre-opening phase as Duty Manager, where she enhanced VIP guest experiences, launched the Royal Club Lounge, and led The Leela Palace Services department. Her exceptional leadership led to her promotion as Director of Rooms and The Leela Club in 2023, overseeing key operations such as the front office, spa, and housekeeping departments.

In 2024, Preeti advanced to the role of Hotel Manager, where she took charge of the hotel’s operations, strategy, and long-term vision. She successfully led key brand activations and luxury collaborations, including partnerships with Milan Fashion Week and iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Longines, and Estée Lauder. Her efforts have contributed significantly to VIP guest satisfaction and the hotel’s revenue growth, ensuring consistent excellence in The Leela’s hospitality standards.

On her appointment, Preeti expressed her gratitude, saying, “Stepping into this role as the General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi is not just a professional milestone, but a deeply personal one. This hotel has been my home for over a decade, and every corner holds memories of growth, passion, and my relentless pursuit of excellence. I am honoured to lead a team that shares this ethos and look forward to carrying forward the legacy of The Leela with the same heart and dedication that has guided me throughout my journey.”

Under Preeti’s leadership, The Leela Palace New Delhi is poised to continue its legacy of excellence, cementing its position as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Thailand’s INNSiDE by Meliá Hotel Names Tarek Beheiry General Manager

Tarek Beheiry, a seasoned hospitality professional with more than two decades’ industry experience in Asia, Africa, and Australasia, has been appointed to the helm of INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit.

He has taken charge of the 208-room INNSiDE by Meliá hotel, reaching 34 floors and towering over Bangkok’s trendy On Nut neighbourhood, replete with a sky-high transparent infinity pool, rooftop tapas bar and integrated co-working spaces.

The new role is his first with Spanish company Meliá Hotels International, one of the world’s leading hotel groups, that has been expanding in Asia in recent years. He joins the team after working as the regional general manager of Ennismore New Zealand and general manager at SO/ Auckland. Before that, he was the general manager at Mondrian Seoul Itaewon.

In Thailand, he was previously the general manager at W Koh Samui, hotel manager at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit and the resident manager at Pullman Bangkok Hotel G.

After studying a Bachelor’s degree in tourism and hotel management at Helwan University Cairo, he worked in various hotel operation roles with Sofitel in Egypt, Australia and Singapore for a decade before progressing to general manager at Hotel G Singapore in 2017.

“With his extensive experience in lifestyle hotels and resorts, working with people from many different backgrounds and cultures, Tarek is a collaborative, dynamic, creative, intuitive and versatile leader; a great match with the award-winning INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit,” said Ignacio Martin, Managing Director Asia Pacific at Meliá Hotels International.

“As Thailand’s first INNSiDE by Meliá hotel, the award-winning INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit has achieved so much since its July 2023 debut, and has it all,” Beheiry said. “We want to stay on top and to continue to lead by example through a continual focus on our people, our facilities and our unique guest experience.”

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is part of an eclectic collection of 48 urban and beach INNSiDE by Meliá hotels across Asia, Europe, and the Americas designed for those with curious minds who have a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure. INNSiDE by Meliá has cemented a reputation as one of the strongest affordable lifestyle brands in Europe with a growing presence globally including in key Southeast Asian cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Yogyakarta in addition to Bangkok.

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership Team with Key Appointments

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts has strengthened its leadership team with key appointments across its properties, further reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and guest satisfaction. The brand continues to expand its footprint across India, and these strategic appointments bring a wealth of experience and expertise to enhance the guest experience.

A. B. Chaki has been appointed as the Operations Manager at Stone Wood Hotel Kumbhalgarh. With over 20 years of experience in Front Office Operations, planning, and general management, Chaki has a proven track record of building high-performing teams and driving consistent service delivery. His previous roles at Lords Hotels & Resorts and Via Lakhela Resorts have honed his ability to enhance guest satisfaction while maintaining strong financial performance.

Laxman Parab takes on the role of General Manager at Stone Wood Beach Resort, Vagator. A seasoned hospitality professional with 27 years of experience, he specializes in Front Office Operations, Revenue Generation, and Cost Management. Having previously worked with Spazio Leisure Resort, Ramatan Resort, and Baga Hideout, Parab deeply understands delivering operational excellence and sustaining business growth.

At Stone Wood Hotel, Rishikesh, Abhishek Kumar has been appointed as the General Manager. His diverse background includes experience with esteemed brands such as Club Mahindra, ITC Fortune, Radisson, Ananta Spa & Resorts, Ahuja Residency Private Limited, and Ramada Encore by Wyndham. With expertise in front office operations, guest services, and property management, Kumar is committed to maintaining high service standards and ensuring seamless operations.

Santosh Bartakke joins as the General Manager of Stone Wood Premier Dandeli. With over 20 years of experience in hotel operations, guest experience, and revenue management, he brings valuable expertise to the role. His past associations with Le Meridien Pune, Royal Orchid, Spree Shivai Hotel, and Bizzgrow Hotels have equipped him with strong leadership skills in hotel openings, sales, and customer relations, making him a valuable asset to the team.

These appointments reflect Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts' dedication to assembling a leadership team that aligns with its vision of redefining hospitality through exceptional guest experiences. The brand, which has made a mark with its boutique resorts, villas, serviced apartments, and clubs across India, continues to focus on growth, innovation, and personalized service.

“At Stone Wood, we believe that strong leadership is the foundation of great hospitality. Each of these industry experts brings immense value to our brand, and their expertise will be instrumental in driving operational efficiency and enhancing guest satisfaction. As we continue to expand, our focus remains on creating memorable experiences for our guests while fostering a culture of excellence within our team,” said Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts. 

With a growing portfolio of properties across India, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts remains committed to offering unique, nature-inspired boutique stays and redefining hospitality standards. These new additions to the leadership team mark another step toward achieving the brand’s vision of providing world-class experiences across its expanding footprint.

Sachin Mandhre Appointed as General Manager of Lords Hrim Akshara Resort, Basar, Telangana.

Lords Hrim Akshara Resort has announced the appointment of Sachin Mandhre as its new General Manager. A seasoned hotelier with over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, he brings a wealth of expertise in strategic leadership, revenue management, operational excellence, PR & Liasoning.

In his new role, he will focus on enhancing productivity, ensuring guest satisfaction, implementing strategic initiatives to position the hotel as a top choice for Leisure, Pilgrim, Wedding, & MICE clientele in Telangana. 

Commenting on his appointment, Mandhre shared, “I am delighted to take on this challenging role. My goal is to build a high-performing team and establish strong partnerships that will drive the resort's success.”

Sudhir Jena, Corporate - Vice President of Lords Hotels & Resorts expressed his enthusiasm stating, “We are excited to welcome Sachin as the General Manager for our debut project in Telangana, his experience and leadership will play a crucial role in enhancing our operations. He has consistently driven success in his previous roles and is well-equipped to lead and establish this resort as a preferred destination in the region.”

With Mandhre at the helm, Lords Hotels & Resorts is set to strengthen its foothold in the South India, offering exceptional True Value experiences for its guests.  Lords Hotels & Resorts: Elevating Hospitality across 70 Hotels and 3000+ keys spanning 3 nations.

Shyanu Lords Eco Inn, Airoli in Navi Mumbai, has appointed Subhodeep Ghosh as its new General Manager.

With more than 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ghosh possesses a robust background in both sales and Operations management. His areas of expertise include strategic operational planning, team leadership, client relationship management, and the development of innovative sales and marketing strategies.

In his new role, Ghosh is committed to delivering an exceptional guest experience, fostering a positive workplace culture, and strengthening stakeholder relationships to drive profitability. Sudhir Jena, VP Corporate commented on his appointment stating “We are excited to have Ghosh as our new General Manager. His leadership skills, industry knowledge, and passion for guest satisfaction will undoubtedly elevate the hotel’s performance. We look forward to his contributions in making our hotel a preferred choice for travelers in Navi Mumbai."

Ghosh expressed his enthusiasm stating "I am honored to join Shyanu Lords Eco Inn, Airoli, and be a part of the esteemed Lords Hotels and Resorts family. I look forward to working closely with the team to drive the hotel's growth in Navi Mumbai’s dynamic hospitality market.”

Taj Corbett Resort & Spa appoints Nivedan Kukreti as new General Manager

Corbett, Uttarakhand, February 2025 - Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Jim Corbett, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Nivedan Kukreti as its new General Manager. Mr. Kukreti, with an impressive 21 years of experience, is known for his visionary approach and strategic solutions.  His ability in managing high - performance teams and dedication towards result-oriented operations is truly remarkable.

With a diploma in hotel management from the prestigious IHM Lucknow, Mr. Kukreti began his hospitality journey in the year 2003. His strong academic background and unwavering commitment towards his work laid the foundation for his successful career in various leadership roles. Over the years he has demonstrated exceptional expertise in project management, marketing and team building, playing an important role in several acclaimed establishments.

Mr. Kukreti’s vast professional expertise includes leadership roles at renowned hotels such as Shangri-La, The Lalit, Radisson Blu, and Taj Hotels. During his tenure he managed key operations, enhanced guest satisfaction, and ensured profitability through innovative strategies.

In his new role as general manager, he aims to establish Taj Corbett Resort & Spa as a premier destination for luxury, nature, and wellness tourism, blending exceptional hospitality with local experiences. He plans to create unique offerings that celebrate the region’s biodiversity, cultural heritage, and adventurous spirit, while fostering collaborations with local artisans and conservationists.

"I am honored to lead Taj Corbett Resort & Spa and look forward to combining world-class hospitality with curated experiences that highlight Corbett’s beauty, culture, and wildlife," said Mr. Nivedan Kukreti. "Together with my team, we will set new benchmarks for excellence while fostering sustainability and enriching the guest experience."

Building on IHCL’s over a century old legacy, Paathya is our industry leading Economic, social and governance framework of responsible tourism, Mr. Kukreti is committed to expanding sustainability initiatives, enhancing eco-friendly infrastructure, and supporting wildlife conservation and the local community.

Under Mr. Kukreti’s leadership, guests can expect exceptional service, immersive experiences, and a strong commitment to sustainability, ensuring every stay is a remarkable journey into the heart of Corbett’s wilderness.

Le Méridien Hyderabad Welcomes Sanjeev Mandal as General Manager

Hyderabad : Le Méridien Hyderabad is pleased to announce the appointment of Sanjeev Mandal as its new General Manager. With over 20 years of experience with Marriott International, Sanjeev is a visionary leader with a deep understanding of luxury hospitality, guest preferences, and market dynamics in tier-1 cities.

Sanjeev began his journey in F&B operations, excelling in both curated fine dining experiences and large-scale catering events. His expertise and leadership saw him take on pivotal roles across multiple Marriott properties, including his tenure as General Manager of Fairfield by Marriott Kathmandu in 2017, where he received numerous accolades, including The Best General Manager’s Award.

His strategic acumen was further demonstrated at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai, where he successfully positioned the hotel as a top choice for urban travelers, enhancing its market positioning and commanding a premium pricing strategy.

At Le Méridien Hyderabad, Sanjeev aims to elevate the hotel’s brand presence, enhance guest experiences, and reinforce Marriott’s strong footprint in the city. Known for his people-first leadership, he fosters a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation, ensuring both guest satisfaction and associate engagement remain at the forefront.

He is joined in Hyderabad by his wife Kalpana and their children Rajveer and Rajeswari. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Sanjeev Mandal, as he embarks on this exciting new journey with Le Méridien Hyderabad.

Courtyard by Marriott Shillong Welcomes Tanuj Arora as General Manager

Shillong: Courtyard by Marriott Shillong is proud to announce the appointment of Tanuj Arora as the new General Manager. With over 18 years of expertise, Tanuj is a dynamic leader with a strong background in hotel openings & operations, consistently delivering value and excellence.

Bringing deep expertise in the rooms division, revenue and hotel operations, Tanuj will spearhead innovation, revenue growth, and business development, driving the hotel toward new milestones.

His impressive career includes playing a key role in launching some of India’s most renowned hotels, including Fairmont Jaipur, Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, Hilton Chennai, and India’s first Hard Rock Hotel Goa. His leadership journey has seen him take on pivotal roles, most recently serving as the General Manager at luxurious Planet Hollywood Hotel, Thane (Mumbai).

At Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, Tanuj is set to elevate the brand’s presence, guest experiences, and Marriott’s footprint in the city. With a people-first leadership approach, he cultivates a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation, ensuring outstanding guest satisfaction and strong associate engagement.

Mercure announces Vijay Nanmaran S as General Manager of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights

Mercure is proud to announce the appointment of Vijay Nanmaran S as the General Manager of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights. With his extensive professional expertise in upscale hotel operations, Vijay is set to lead the newly opened property towards excellence in hospitality and guest satisfaction.

With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Vijay is a seasoned leader in operational excellence, revenue growth, and guest satisfaction. His career includes key leadership roles in esteemed hotel chains such as The Soaltee Kathmandu, InterContinental Hotels Group, Starwood, and ITC properties across South Asia and the Middle East. Under his leadership, properties have achieved significant industry accolades, including Best Wedding & MICE Hotel of Nepal – Luxury Segment by Hospitality India Travel Awards and Best 5-Star Hotel in Nepal by International Travel Awards.

Vijay holds a Master’s degree in Sociology from Annamalai University in Tamil Nadu and a Master Certificate in Hospitality Management from Cornell University. As a polyglot, he effortlessly connects with diverse guests, enhancing their experience.

In his role as General Manager, Vijay will oversee all aspects of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights, ensuring seamless operations, exceptional guest experiences, and the promotion of local culture as required by the brand. His expertise in strategic planning, team leadership, and innovative hospitality solutions positions him to establish the hotel as a premier destination in Kathmandu. His commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and service excellence aligns with Mercure’s vision of offering immersive and locally inspired stays.

Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights offers a thoughtfully designed stay experience, harmonizing contemporary comforts with an authentic local feel. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, curated dining experiences at DYNE, Sopra Italiano, The Kove, and Zaiqa, as well as the elegant rooftop setting of Sukra Bar. The hotel also features a rooftop infinity pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and premier venues for events and celebrations.

Speaking on his appointment, Vijay Nanmaran stated, “I am honored to take on this role at Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights and lead a team dedicated to delivering outstanding hospitality. With a strong commitment to excellence, innovation, and guest satisfaction, I look forward to creating unforgettable experiences that reflect Mercure’s legacy. Together, we will set new benchmarks, elevate service standards, and establish the hotel as a premier destination in Kathmandu.”

As Mercure continues to expand globally, Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights reaffirms the brand’s commitment to unveiling the treasures surrounding each address. With Vijay Nanmaran at the helm, the hotel is poised to redefine hospitality in Kathmandu, offering travelers an authentic and enriching experience.

Pankaj Yadav Joins UK27 The Fern, Belagavi as General Manager

Bringing over two decades of rich experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Pankaj Yadav has been appointed as the General Manager of UK27 The Fern, Belagavi. With a strong background in food & beverage, operations, and hotel revenue management, Pankaj has been instrumental in driving operational success across multiple prestigious hotel brands.

Before stepping into his new role, Pankaj held key leadership positions at Hotel Fortune Park, Hubballi—A Member of ITC Hotels, as well as Lemon Tree Hotels across Mumbai, Jhansi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. His expertise lies in optimizing guest experiences, streamlining hotel operations, and enhancing profitability through innovative strategies.

At UK27 The Fern, Belagavi, Pankaj will be at the helm of overseeing daily operations, managing budgets, and spearheading revenue growth to ensure the hotel continues to thrive in the competitive luxury hospitality sector. His strategic vision and dedication to operational excellence will further elevate UK27 The Fern’s reputation as a preferred destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

With a passion for hospitality and a proven track record in the industry, Pankaj is committed to delivering world-class guest experiences while fostering a culture of excellence within the team.

The Fern Residency, Solapur Appointed Mr. Sajin Natarajan as the new General Manager

The Fern Residency, Solapur is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Sajin Natarajan as its new General Manager. With an impressive 18 years of experience across various domains of the hospitality industry, including Food and Beverage service, sales, and front office operations, Mr. Natarajan brings a wealth of expertise to this key leadership role.

A graduate in B. Com Hotel Management and Catering Technology from Kerala University, Sajin has built a distinguished career, having held important positions at prestigious hospitality brands such as Sarovar Hotels, Jumeirah Hotels, and Hilton Hotels. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a keen ability to deliver exceptional guest service, streamline operations, and drive business growth.

In his new capacity, Mr. Natarajan is committed to enhancing the guest experience at The Fern Residency, Solapur by implementing strategic policies and initiatives designed to boost guest satisfaction. He aims to foster a positive and collaborative work culture, promote staff development, and strengthen relationships with stakeholders to ensure the hotel’s long-term success. His passion for excellence and his hands-on approach to management position him as the ideal leader to take The Fern Residency, Solapur, to greater heights in both service quality and operational efficiency.

The Fern Heaven on The Hills, Hatgad-Saputara Appointed Mr. Niladri Das as a new General Manager,

Mr. Niladri Das has been appointed as the General Manager of The Fern Heaven on The Hills, Hatgad-Saputara, bringing 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. In this role, he will oversee the resort’s operations, focusing on guest satisfaction, team development and driving operational excellence to elevate the property’s performance.
Previously, Niladri served as General Manager at Sunotel Resort, Saputara and Resident Manager at Clarks Exotica, Bhuj where he played a key role in enhancing operations and guest services.  Niladri’s extensive knowledge in Food & Beverage Services, combined with his leadership acumen, positions him well to lead The Fern Heaven on The Hills to new heights. Known for his customer-centric approach, he is committed to ensuring memorable guest experiences and driving the resort’s continued success.

Bharat Malhotra Joins Diamond Lords Plaza, Nepalgunj, as General Manager

Diamond Lords Plaza, Nepalgunj, a premier destination for business and leisure travelers, has announced the appointment of Bharat Malhotra as its General Manager. With over 16 years of extensive experience in the hospitality and tourism industry, Malhotra brings a deep understanding of guest services and operational excellence. He holds a BSc in Hospitality & Hotel Administration from IHM Srinagar.

In his new role, Malhotra will spearhead the hotel’s business strategy, with a focus on enhancing guest satisfaction. 

“We are delighted to welcome Malhotra as our new General Manager said Shailej Teri, Assistant Vice President - Nepal region. His expertise and leadership will undoubtedly reinforce the hotel’s position as one of the finest in the country.”

Sharing his excitement, Malhotra said, “It is a privilege to join Diamond Lords Plaza as General Manager. I look forward to working with the talented team to deliver exceptional guest experiences and uphold the hotel’s legacy of excellence.”

Renowned for its elite rooms and suites, spacious accommodations, and a multi-cuisine restaurant serving delectable dishes, Diamond Lords Plaza at Nepalgunj continues to set a benchmark in hospitality. Its strategic location and highly trained staff have made it the go-to destination for travelers seeking unparalleled comfort and service.

Holiday Inn Amritsar Ranjit Avenue Appoints Ravi Dhankhar as General Manager

Amritsar, January 2025: Holiday Inn Amritsar Ranjit Avenue is pleased to announce the appointment of Ravi Dhankhar as the new General Manager. With over two decades of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Ravi has a proven track record of leadership across prestigious hotel brands such as The Leela Palace, Taj Hotels, Sarovar Hotels, Lemon Tree Hotels, Narendra Bhawan Bikaner, Pride Group of Hotels and Ramada Jaipur. His diverse background positions him to further elevate the hotel's reputation and service standards.

In his new role, Ravi will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, focusing on enhancing guest satisfaction, improving operational efficiency, and maintaining the hotel’s commitment to excellence in service. Ravi brings deep insights into the evolving hospitality landscape of Amritsar, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and a growing magnet for both leisure and business tourism. By fostering partnerships with Amritsar’s tourism board, local heritage sites, and nearby business hubs, he aims to integrate the hotel more closely with the city's vibrant cultural fabric and expanding commercial landscape.

“I am truly excited to join Holiday Inn Amritsar Ranjit Avenue and contribute to its growth in this dynamic market,” said Ravi Dhankhar. “Amritsar is not only a city rich in history and culture, but it is also an increasingly significant destination for both leisure and business travellers. Together with my team, I look forward to forging strong partnerships with local businesses, tourism stakeholders, and cultural organizations to provide guests with experiences that are unique, memorable, and reflective of the warmth and vibrancy of this incredible city.”

Pankaj Gupta, Area General Manager for IHG SouthWest Asia, shared his enthusiasm for Ravi's appointment: "Ravi's vast experience and leadership in the hospitality industry make him the ideal choice to lead Holiday Inn Amritsar Ranjit Avenue. His deep understanding of the region's market dynamics, commitment to local partnerships, and innovative approach will be pivotal as we continue to strengthen our presence in Amritsar and the broader North Indian region.”

One the personal front, Ravi is also passionate about travelling and off-roading.

Amish Mathur appointed as General Manager of Maan Vilas by Stonewood Premier, Udaipur

January 2025: Stonewood Hotels & Resorts is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Amish Mathur as the General Manager of Maan Vilas by Stonewood Premier, Udaipur. A seasoned hospitality professional with 27 years of vast experience, Mr. Mathur has honed his expertise across a diverse range of roles including working with QSR chains, international hotel brands, and independent properties. His 360-degree understanding of the hospitality business is complemented by his expertise in pre-opening projects and managing properties in remote locations.

Mr. Mathur is a hotel management graduate from the 1994-97 batch from Mangalore University and started his career with The Taj Rambagh Palace Jaipur as a management trainee. He later took charge of reservations at North Zone and became part of the sales & Taj Reservation Network.

In his most recent role at Zone Palace by The Park in Phalodi, Mr. Mathur successfully undertook the renovation of a 300-year-old haveli, establishing a sustainable business model. His straightforward yet effective philosophy, “sell the destination to sell the hotel,” proved to be remarkably successful in driving growth and ensuring a consistent flow of business.

On a personal note, Mr. Mathur is a passionate wildlife enthusiast with a keen interest in wildlife photography. In addition to his love for nature, he enjoys music, which serves as his pastime when he is not occupied with work.

Hotel Maan Vilas by Stonewood Premier has the distinction of being one of the finest luxury hotels in Udaipur, ideally located just 1 km from the Sajjangarh Biological Sanctuary and a convenient 27 km drive from Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur. Guests can also indulge in a culinary experience at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant while enjoying the breathtaking views of the majestic Pichola and Fateh Sagar lakes.

Aamaghati Wildlife Resort Welcomes Ravindra Nath Purohit as New General Manager

New Delhi, January, 2025: In a significant move to strengthen its leadership team, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort has announced the appointment of Ravindra Nath Purohit as its new General Manager.  In this role, Mr. Purohit will be instrumental in spearheading the resort's operations, driving guest satisfaction, and ensuring excellence across all aspects of hospitality.

Mr. Purohit brings over 16 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with some of India’s most notable properties, including Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, and Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad and Ananta Hotels.

“Ravindra Nath Purohit’s vision and leadership will play a pivotal role in elevating guest experiences while embracing sustainable and culturally immersive practices,” said Mr. Abhishek Hissaria, Managing Director, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort. 

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Anshul Bhargava, Founder, BlackRock Hotels, stated, “We are excited to welcome Mr. Purohit to the BlackRock family. His deep industry experience and innovative approach to hospitality will undoubtedly help position Aamaghati as a benchmark for excellence in wildlife resorts.”

Adding to Anshul, Gaurav Mudgal, Managing Partner & VP, Commercials, BlackRock Hotels & Resorts shared, “We believe in the power of strong leadership to drive innovation and excellence. With the appointment of our new General Manager, we are confident that we will continue to elevate our operations and commercials, delivering exceptional value to our clients and partners. Moreover, we are committed to turning every moment our guests spend at our hotel into a bright and unforgettable memory that lasts forever.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Purohit has demonstrated exceptional skills in operations management, financial planning, staff training, and customer relationship management. His expertise lies in streamlining operations, cultivating guest loyalty, and implementing innovative strategies for profitability.

https://aamaghatiresort.com/

Aamaghati Wildlife Resort Welcomes Ravindra Nath Purohit as New General Manager

In a significant move to strengthen its leadership team, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort has announced the appointment of Ravindra Nath Purohit as its new General Manager.  In this role, Mr. Purohit will be instrumental in spearheading the resort's operations, driving guest satisfaction, and ensuring excellence across all aspects of hospitality.

Mr. Purohit brings over 16 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with some of India’s most notable properties, including Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, and Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad and Ananta Hotels.

“Ravindra Nath Purohit’s vision and leadership will play a pivotal role in elevating guest experiences while embracing sustainable and culturally immersive practices,” said Mr. Abhishek Hissaria, Managing Director, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort. 

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Anshul Bhargava, Founder, BlackRock Hotels, stated, “We are excited to welcome Mr. Purohit to the BlackRock family. His deep industry experience and innovative approach to hospitality will undoubtedly help position Aamaghati as a benchmark for excellence in wildlife resorts.”

Adding to Anshul, Gaurav Mudgal, Managing Partner & VP, Commercials, BlackRock Hotels & Resorts shared, “We believe in the power of strong leadership to drive innovation and excellence. With the appointment of our new General Manager, we are confident that we will continue to elevate our operations and commercials, delivering exceptional value to our clients and partners. Moreover, we are committed to turning every moment our guests spend at our hotel into a bright and unforgettable memory that lasts forever.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Purohit has demonstrated exceptional skills in operations management, financial planning, staff training, and customer relationship management. His expertise lies in streamlining operations, cultivating guest loyalty, and implementing innovative strategies for profitability.

New Meliá Pattaya Hotel Announces Javier Gimeno as General Manager

A hospitality veteran with three decades of industry experience in Asia and Europe, Javier Gimeno, will take charge of the new Meliá Pattaya Hotel.

The 234-room and suite hotel with expansive sea views is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025 in the heart of vibrant Pattaya, a short drive from Bangkok on the Gulf of Thailand’s scenic east coast.

He joins Meliá Pattaya Hotel after working in senior management roles with Marriott International for more than a decade. Most recently, he was the cluster general manager with Marriott & Four Points by Sheraton Tianjin National Convention and Exhibition Centre in Tianjin, China.

He started his career in the mid-90s in his native Spain as a bellman at the Hilton Barcelona, and then held roles in guest services and operations departments at hotels in Barcelona and Andorra. His work in Asia goes back to 2000 where he worked in Shanghai before becoming a general manager with Barceló Hotels & Resorts in Davao, The Philippines, in 2002. His career has also taken him to Hong Kong and Malaysia.

“Javier’s extraordinary leadership skills and rich and diversified experience in opening and managing properties in Asia and key bleisure destinations like Barcelona place him in excellent stead to take charge of Meliá Pattaya Hotel, following the successful launches of Meliá Koh Samui, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, Meliá Chiang Mai and INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit in Thailand,” said Ignacio Martin, Managing Director Asia Pacific at Meliá Hotels International. “A prime coastal destination situated so close to Bangkok, Pattaya is an excellent choice for holidays as well as meetings and events. As one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, Meliá Hotels International is launching a bleisure hotel that not only fits perfectly with the destination but also redefines it.”

“My team and I are looking forward to unveiling this flagship Meliá Hotels International hotel underscored by Meliá’s warm Spanish hospitality, distinctive passion for service and focus on the customer’s wellbeing,” added Mr Gimeno. “Our hotel makes for the quintessential urban resort thanks to its host of facilities suited to leisure and business travellers alike including a rooftop restaurant that features a sky bar, a beach club, executive lounge, YHI Spa, Kidsdom kids club, swimming pool, ballroom, inspiring collection of meeting spaces and more.”

Subhro Mukhopadhyay appointed as General Manager of Aralea Beach Resort by Stonewood Premier, Morjim

Goa, January 2025: Stonewood Premier is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Subhro Mukhopadhyay as the General Manager of Aralea Beach Resort by Stonewood Premier, Morjim, North Goa. With over 22 years of diverse experience across the tourism, hospitality and aviation industries, Mr. Mukhopadhyay brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to his new role.

Mr. Mukhopadhyay’s illustrious career spans leading roles with some of the most recognized names in the industry including Hyatt, Sahara Airlines, Jet Airways, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa Airlines, Zuri Hotels, Royal Orchid Hotels and Fern Hotels. Prior to joining Aralea Beach Resort, he served at Sarovar Hotels.

Mr. Mukhopadhyay’s appointment is expected to further strengthen Aralea Beach Resort’s position as a leading hospitality destination in Goa known for its stunning beachside views, luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities. His proven track record is expected to elevate the resort’s guest experiences and industry standing.

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Mukhopadhyay said, “I am delighted to join Aralea Beach Resort by Stonewood Premier. Goa is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations and I look forward to working with our team here to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

With his deep-rooted passion for hospitality and focus on delivering excellence, Mr. Mukhopadhyay’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter for Aralea Beach Resort by Stonewood Premier.

Rajani Nair Deb appointed as the General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Agra

Rajani Nair Deb has been appointed as the General manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Agra. With over 22 years of hospitality experience, Rajani most recently served as Commercial Director at Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, where she played a pivotal role in driving exceptional growth in hotel performance metrics. 

Prior to joining Hilton, Rajani served as Pre-Opening Director of Sales & Marketing at The Leela Gandhinagar and The Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre, where she made significant contributions to business growth.

Rajani's career is a testament to her expertise in business development, revenue management, and pre-opening planning. She has been a part of pre-opening landmark hotels like the Leela Palace Bengaluru, The ITC Sonar Bangla, HICC & Novotel Hyderabad – in various capacities in Food & Beverage Operations and Business Development.

She is a passionate advocate for gender equity and inclusiveness. She has led key initiatives like “Conversations that care ” and “Shakti at Hilton” which delve into sensitive gender inclusive issues and has been a member  in Hilton’s Women Team Member Resource Group (WTMRG). 

Her journey to becoming a General Manager has been shaped by continuous learning, having undertaken several leadership training programs like Shine 2 and Lead 3.1 to master aspects of hotel operations. She was also a part of the Woman in Leadership programme in 2023 (the 1st cohort of Hilton India).

Beyond her professional achievements, Rajani is an avid traveller who enjoys discovering new cuisines and cultures, and she loves to work with feline rescue initiatives, which adds a touch of warmth to her dynamic and driven personality

Her family consists of her husband Rudrojit and their cats – Felix and Fuzz Aldrin who joins her in Agra.