Aditya Ramani takes charge of F&B offerings at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

Spearhead F&B operations, refining dining concepts, optimising operations, and crafting unique guest experiences

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu appoints Aditya Ramani as Director of Food & Beverage. With his extensive experience spanning two decades, Aditya’s journey showcases his remarkable ability to lead and innovate across diverse locations. Most recently, he held the position of Director of Food & Beverage at The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi, where he orchestrated a comprehensive F&B revamp, including relaunching the iconic Spice Route and introducing a new Imperial lounge, enhancing the hotel’s luxury appeal. 

Prior to this, Aditya excelled as Director of Food & Beverage at the Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff, Johannesburg. He played a pivotal role in launching an exceptional beverage experience called the Gin Lab, which focused on enhancing the beverage story at the hotel. His tenure at Four Seasons in the Maldives further demonstrated his adeptness in creating memorable dining experiences and managing high-profile annual events across the two properties and a luxury yacht of the brand in the region. 

Spearheading the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu’s food & beverage operations, Aditya Ramani’s strategic vision includes refining dining concepts, optimising operations, and crafting unique guest experiences that align with JW Marriott’s commitment to luxury and exceptional service. 

Aditya Ramani states, “It’s good to be back home in Mumbai and be a part of this iconic hotel as it moves towards revamping its F&B space with a brand new ballroom and a European restaurant launch slated for the later part of the year.” 

The Westin Gurugram, New Delhi, appoints Saurabh Sharma as Food & Beverage Manager

Saurabh will be working closely with the hotel’s Director of Food & Beverage to oversee all food and beverage operations

Saurabh Sharma is the new Food & Beverage Manager The Westin Gurugram, New Delhi. With his strong background, Saurabh brings a wealth of expertise from his former roles as Restaurant Manager and Food & Beverage Operations Manager at esteemed establishments like the Hyatt Regency Delhi and Shangri-La Eros New Delhi. His career trajectory, spanning 14 years, is characterised by significant contributions to renowned venues, making him ideally suited to lead the culinary experiences at The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi. His leadership skills are set to elevate the dining and beverage offerings, perfectly aligning with the hotel’s unwavering dedication to hospitality excellence. 

In his current role, he will work closely with the hotel’s Director of Food & Beverage to oversee all food and beverage operations, including restaurants, bars, in-room dining, banquets, meeting rooms, and outdoor catering. He will be instrumental in further elevating the positioning of the award-winning outlets at the hotel: Seasonal Tastes (all-day diner), EEST (speciality pan-Asian), Prego (speciality Italian), Sunset Story (rooftop bar & lounge), Mix Bar & Lounge (bar), Story Club & Lounge (night club), and Daily Treats (patisserie).

He is skilled in developing procedures and service standards that drive business excellence. He will lead initiatives focused on streamlining operations, proactive planning, and introducing new concepts to enhance efficiency and service quality. A keen communicator, he relates well to individuals at all organisational levels, motivating and guiding his team with clear communication and a shared vision for excellence in F&B services. 

In addition to his professional achievements, Saurabh enjoys long drives and exploring new destinations, bringing a sense of adventure and curiosity to his culinary explorations.

Anant Leekha takes over as General Manager, Novotel Pune

Novotel Pune assigns Anant Leekha the role of General Manager. Anant’s extensive industry experience spanning 20 years will contribute a blend of sales and operations expertise and motivate and develop dynamic teams.

Anant, in his new role, will lead initiatives to drive business growth and enhance guest experiences through strategic and technological advancements. He is dedicated to delivering heartiest experience to guests and team members alike. This appointment marks Anant’s return to Pune, where he initially served as General Manager in 2016, marking the beginning of his journey.

Anant’s 16-year tenure with Accor provides him with deep insights into the company’s goals, service standards, and brand identity. Prior to joining Novotel Pune, Anant held significant roles within Accor, most recently as Cluster General Manager overseeing ibis Mumbai Vikhroli, ibis Navi Mumbai, and ibis Thane (totalling 631 rooms), all achieving consistent year-on-year excellence in performance metrics. In his new role, Anant will oversee the overall operations and management of Novotel Pune Nagar Road and focus on enhancing guest engagement and profitability while further establishing the hotel’s reputation.

Anant holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management & Catering Technology. Outside of work, he enjoys playing cricket, spending beachside holidays with his family, and celebrating life with those around him, which fuels his motivation to excel.

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru welcomes Imran Khan as Executive Housekeeper

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is delighted to announce the appointment of Imran Khan as Executive Housekeeper. Hailing from the charming town of Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh, Imran brings a wealth of experience and a remarkable journey in the hospitality industry to the Four Seasons team.

Imran's illustrious career includes key positions in renowned luxury hotels and resorts around India like the Oberoi Vanyavilas as the Housekeeping Supervisor, Trident Hyderabad as Assistant Manager, Housekeeping and Trident Cochin as Executive Housekeeper. Imran has over 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with a focus on opening hotels, managing property systems, and ensuring quality standards. He has successfully opened four new hotels for the Oberoi group, overseeing the housekeeping operations, training the staff, and coordinating with multiple departments. 

Four Seasons is renowned for delivering exceptional guest experiences through personalized service, attention to detail, and a commitment to the highest standards of quality ensuring that every guest feels valued and cared for; and Imran’s keen eye for detail, high ethical standards, and dedication to creating a positive work environment make him an ideal fit for Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. His passion for delighting guests and optimizing resources mirrors the Four Seasons commitment to excellence and innovation.

“I am passionate about delighting the customers by delivering excellent guest services, using the resources available to me to their optimum capacity, and creating a positive work environment for my team”, says Imran. “Always eager to learn and grow, I look forward to upholding the Four Seasons mission with a big smile and the best efforts." Outside of work, Imran enjoys playing cricket and indulging in his culinary passion. 

Pilibhit House, Haridwar welcomes Chef Rohit Dubey as the new Chef-in-Charge

New Delhi, 2024: Pilibhit House, Haridwar - IHCL SeleQtions, Haridwar’s most luxurious hotel, announces the appointment of Chef Rohit Dubey as their New Chef-in Charge. With over 16 years of industry experience, Chef Rohit Dubey is known for his unmatched culinary expertise, and knowledge.

In his new role at Pilibhit House, Haridwar, Chef Dubey will lead the culinary operations and helm the hotel's newly launched restaurant, The Terrace. A seasoned and results-oriented professional, Chef Dubey has a proven track record from various dynamic kitchens across the country. His culinary expertise spans both national and international cuisines, and he excels in curating bespoke dining experiences for guests. With a keen eye for detail, Chef Dubey ensures the highest standards of food quality are consistently met.

Passionate about food quality and presentation, Chef Dubey has introduced intriguing menu changes and created enticing promotional menus, all while maintaining a keen eye on food costs. Committed to training and developing his team, he excels in creating a welcoming atmosphere and serving as an inspirational host, enhancing the overall dining experience and making it memorable for guests.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Vikas Nagar, Hotel Manager, Pilibhit House, Haridwar- IHCL SeleQtions said, "We are delighted to welcome Chef Rohit Dubey to our team. His exceptional culinary talent, extensive experience in luxury hotels, and strong passion for creating unique menus will be invaluable assets. Guests can look forward to a holistic dining experience that perfectly blends the finest local ingredients and techniques with international flavors. Under Chef Dubey's leadership and guidance, we are confident in setting even higher standards in culinary operations nationwide."

Chef Dubey holds a BSc in Hospitality & tourism degree from the Annamalai University, Chennai. Throughout his illustrious career, he has garnered many awards and is associated with leading hotels such as Radisson Varanasi and Courtyard by Marriott in Chennai before becoming a strong culinary pillar of support in the Taj Group of Hotels. He worked extensively in managing kitchen staff and ensuring top-notch experiences for guests at Taj Nadesar Palace and The Taj Ganges, Varanasi before joining Pilibhit House. 

Jw Marriott Mumbai Juhu Appoints Aditya Ramani As The Director Of Food & Beverage

Mumbai, July 2024:  JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is pleased to introduce Mr. Aditya Ramani as the newly appointed Director of Food & Beverage.  With an impressive career spanning over two decades in luxury hospitality, Aditya brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished reputation for elevating food and beverage operations to new heights.

With his extensive experience, Mr. Ramani’s journey showcases his remarkable ability to lead and innovate across diverse locations. Most recently, he held the position of Director of Food & Beverage at The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi, where he orchestrated a comprehensive F&B revamp including re-launch of the iconic Spice Route and introduced a new Imperial lounge, enhancing the hotel’s luxury appeal.

Prior to this, Aditya excelled as Director of Food & Beverage at Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff, Johannesburg, contributing significantly to the hotel through his strategic management of restaurant and banquet operations. This was during the post Covid-19 period, where he played a pivotal role in launching an exceptional beverage experience, called the Gin Lab – focusing on enhancing the beverage story at the hotel. His tenure at Four Seasons in the Maldives further demonstrated his adeptness in creating memorable dining experiences and managing high-profile annual events across the two properties and a luxury yacht of the brand in the region.

Spearheading the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu’s food and beverage operations, Mr. Aditya Ramani’s strategic vision includes refining dining concepts, optimizing operations, and crafting unique guest experiences that align with JW Marriott’s commitment to luxury and exceptional service.

Aditya says of his joining, “It’s good to be back home in Mumbai, and be a part of this iconic hotel, as it moves towards revamping its F&B space with a brand new ballroom, as well as a European restaurant launch slated for the later part of the year.”

Further elevating its reputation as a premier destination renowned for its exceptional gastronomic offerings, under Mr. Ramini’s leadership, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is poised to reach new heights of culinary excellence.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Appoints Jasvir Belwal as Director of Operations

Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the elegant luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, is pleased to welcome Jasvir Belwal as the hotel’s new Director of Operations.

Jasvir was most recently Director of Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Bengaluru, a role he held for two years. Here, he was responsible for maximizing room sales and revenue through appropriate yield management, upselling, and inventory management initiatives; planning and implementing effective training programs for all Front Office employees, empowering them to provide excellent customer service within the brand guidelines; maximizing employee productivity through multi-skilling, multi-tasking, and flexible scheduling to meet the financial goals of the business as well as guest expectations; and preparing the Annual Business Plan for the Rooms Division and the monthly reforecast.

Prior to this role, Jasvir was the Director of Rooms at the Marriott Weligama Bay Resort & Spa, and also held several other key roles across Marriott and Hyatt properties in India and Sri Lanka. Jasvir holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel & Hospitality Management from the Institute of Hotel Management, Hyderabad (2005).

In his new role as Director of Operations at Sofitel Mumbai BKC, Jasvir will leverage his 19+ years of experience at some of the country’s finest luxury, business, and leisure hotels to achieve significant results in employee and guest satisfaction, guest room profitability, and operations and facility management. His key areas of expertise include budgeting, forecasting, and Rev Max processes; inspiring teams through mentoring, training, and development; and quickly adapting to continually evolving trends.

Jasvir states, “As the Director of Operations of Sofitel Mumbai BKC, I envision our hotel’s future marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. My aspiration is to craft a sanctuary where the elegance of luxury converges seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. Our aim is to provide intuitive and seamless services tailored to the needs of our guests, ensuring a stay that is both experiential and luxurious. Guest satisfaction, the cornerstone of our ethos, will fuel our efforts to exceed expectations, fostering unwavering loyalty and ensuring that every departure is met with a heartfelt desire to return.”

In his free time, Jasvir enjoys sketching, cooking, and is a movie buff.

Chef Roshan Tadadikar has been appointed as Executive Chef at Novotel Mumbai International Airport

National |July 2024 - Novotel Mumbai International Airport has elevated Chef Roshan Tadadikar to the position of Executive Chef. With a career spanning over 13 years, Roshan continues to bring with him a wealth of experience and culinary expertise to his new role which will continue to be a boon to the hotel.

He will oversee all aspects of the hotel's culinary operations and lead a team of talented chefs, ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation are met. Leveraging his expertise in multi-cuisine cooking, Chef Roshan will focus on modern Indian and traditional cuisine to bring a fresh and innovative perspective towards creating flavorful dishes.

Roshan's vision for Novotel Mumbai International Airport focuses on designing an engaging and diverse menu catering to the local palate offering both exciting and reflective regional tastes. Chef Roshan has received numerous accolades and recognition within the brand, including Executive of the Year in 2015, Chef of the Year in 2016 and Best General Attitude in 2019.

With a distinguished bachelor's degree in Hotel Management, Travel & Tourism from Punjab Technical University, and having been a part of the Leadership Development Program, his skill set has been sharpened through years of experience in the culinary field. He has previously worked with esteemed establishments and various Novotel properties across India.

"We are delighted to have Chef Roshan at the helm of our kitchen now." said Rachita Sood, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai International Airport. “Roshan understands and wants to drive the property’s reputation as a go-to culinary destination. With his dedication to excellence, focus on fresh, local ingredients, and passion for creating unique culinary experiences make him the perfect candidate to further elevate the F&B offerings at the property.”

 Roshan Tadadikar, excited to embark on this new chapter and share his culinary vision with guests mentioned, "I am honoured to be appointed as the Executive Chef at Novotel Mumbai International Airport and lead our talented team," he said. "I look forward to working with the team to create exciting, innovative dishes while ensuring consistent excellence and impeccable service. In our kitchen, creativity and teamwork will reign supreme, fostering a continuous learning environment where everyone thrives."

Roshan's promotion underscores Novotel Mumbai International Airport’s dedication to nurturing talent and promoting from within. His appointment represents a significant milestone in his career.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Announces GM Appointments Across Properties

Mumbai, July 24, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts announces the appointment of General Managers at six of its hotels and resorts.

Mohammed Anwar- General Manager at The Fern Residency, Vijayapura 

Assuming the role of General Manager, The Fern Residency, Vijayapura, Mohammed Anwar brings fifteen years of experience in the hospitality industry, with knowledge and passion for delivering exceptional guest experience. Demonstrating a strong background in Front Office Operations and Revenue Management, his responsibilities include overseeing daily hotel operations, generating revenue, and ensuring the success of the gross operating profit. His journey includes roles with establishments such as Icon Hotel & Spree Hotel in Bangalore.

Rajesh Rajan- General Manager at Harsha The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Shivamogga

Rajesh Rajan takes over as General Manager of Harsha The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel, Shivamogga, bringing 18 years of experience in hospitality. Demonstrating a strong business acumen and management experience, Rajesh will focus on managing budgets, ensuring the success of the gross operating profit and initiating new ideas for revenue generation. His rich background features key positions at prestigious groups such as Accor and The Oberoi.

Amarendra Singh

takes over as General Manager of The Fern Residency, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad, bringing more than two decades of experience in hospitality. As a seasoned General Manager, Amarendra has successfully overseen the strategic management of hotels, consistently achieving and exceeding business objectives. His journey includes roles with renowned establishments such as Royal Orchid Hotels and Pride Hotels. As General Manager, he is committed to bringing in innovation to enhance guest experience.

Sankha Maiti -General Manager at The Fern Residency, Bhopal

Assuming the role of General Manager, The Fern Residency, Bhopal, Sankha Maiti brings over two decades of extensive hospitality experience. A dedicated and results-driven hospitality professional, he holds expertise in Reservations & Revenue Management, Sales Promotion and overall Business Operations. His responsibilities include overseeing hotel operations, managing budgets, and maximizing guest satisfaction. Maiti’s rich background features key positions at prominent groups such as Sarovar Hotels and Regenta Hotels.

Gopal Kumawat takes over as General Manager of The Fern Residency, Jodhpur, bringing eighteen years of experience in hospitality. With a strong background in F&B management, budgeting and business development, Kumawat will focus on overseeing hotel operations, managing budgets, and ensuring the success of the gross operating profit. His journey includes key positions at esteemed groups such as Fortune Group and The Ramada Group.

Ranjeet Tiwari - General Manager at The Fern Ranthambhore Forest Resort, Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore)

With a 16-year tenure in hospitality encompassing hotel operations and sales, Ranjeet Tiwari is entrusted with the role of General Manager at The Fern Ranthambhore Forest Resort, Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore). His responsibilities include overseeing hotel operations, managing budgets, and ensuring the success of the gross operating profit. Ranjeet’s rich background features key positions at Rosado Jaipur and Hotel 10 Park Gorakhpur. 

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Amit Kumar Sharma as Cluster General Manager – Maharashtra

Mumbai, July 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Amit Kumar Sharma as the new Cluster General Manager- Maharashtra. With over two decades of distinguished experience in the hospitality sector both in India and overseas, Amit brings a wealth of expertise, with a proven track record of successful performance across hotel operations.

Amit joined The Fern family in 2016 and has since demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. He embarked on his journey with The Fern Hotels & Resorts as Pre-opening General Manager at Amanora The Fern, Pune where he oversaw all facets of hotel operations ranging from directing and supervising day-to-day operations and monitoring service quality to ensuring exceptional guest experience and efficient hotel functioning.

In his new role as Cluster General Manager- Maharashtra, Kumar will be overseeing the overall management and strategic direction of 15 properties across the region- Karad, Karjat, Kolhapur, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Pune, Satara, Ichalkaranji and Solapur. His responsibilities would encompass providing leadership and guidance to individual General Managers (GMs) and their teams to ensure high operational standards, efficiency, and guest satisfaction. Additionally, he would be responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans aligned with company goals to promote sustainable growth and profitability across hotels, while ensuring compliance with brand standards, quality controls, health, safety, and regulatory requirements.

He has been previously associated with leading brands like Grand Hyatt, Intercontinental, Le Meridien etc. in various roles where he demonstrated his leadership capabilities and ability to lead teams effectively.

Courtyard by Marriott Northern Ring Road Riyadh Welcome’s Nada Soliman as New PR & Marketing Manager

July 2024 – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Courtyard by Marriott Northern Ring Road Riyadh, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Nada Soliman as the new PR & Marketing Manager, effective immediately.

Nada Soliman brings a dynamic and results-driven approach to her new role, backed by a distinguished career in luxury brands and hospitality. With proven expertise in brand elevation, client relationship management, and innovative campaign execution, Soliman is poised to enhance Courtyard by Marriott Northern Ring Road Riyadh's reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Soliman's impressive career includes her most recent role as PR & Marketing Manager at Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort, where she has excelled since 2023. Prior to that, she served as Marketing Executive at The Nile Ritz-Carlton in Cairo, Egypt, from 2022 to 2023. Her versatility was further demonstrated in 2022 when she took on the role of Marketing Manager – Task Force at Courtyard by Marriott in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Her journey in luxury hospitality began as a Marketing Coordinator at The Nile Ritz-Carlton in Cairo, Egypt, from 2021 to 2022. Soliman's academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from The American University in Cairo and a High School Diploma in Business from BBC International School in Cairo, Egypt.

"We are delighted to welcome Nada Soliman to our team as the new PR & Marketing Manager" said Mahmoud Omar, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Northern Ring Road Riyadh. "Her extensive experience, innovative vision, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our goals. We are confident that Nada will play a pivotal role in further elevating our brand and enhancing the guest experience."

Courtyard by Marriott Northern Ring Road Riyadh looks forward to the exciting initiatives and developments that will arise under Soliman's leadership. Her appointment marks a significant step in the hotel's ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in luxury hospitality.

Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre Welcomes Abhed Rebel as New Front Office Manager

Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Abhed Rebel as its new Front Office Manager. Abhed brings over 11 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, with a proven track record of success in the Rooms domain.

"We are delighted to welcome Abhed to the Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre team," says Mr. Suraj Kumar Jha, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre. "His impressive experience and dedication to guest service excellence make him the perfect fit to lead our front office operations. We are confident that Abhed will play a key role in delivering exceptional experiences for our valued guests."

Abhed's career journey began at Vivanta by Taj Whitefield Bangalore as a Guest Service Associate. He has since honed his skills working with renowned hospitality brands like Courtyard by Marriott, Marriott Kochi, Weligama Bay Marriott Resort and Spa, Four Points Sheraton, Novotel Hotels and Resorts, and most recently, as Front Office Manager at Radisson Red, Mohali.

"I am incredibly excited to join the team at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre," says Abhed Rebel. "The hotel's reputation for exceptional service and its commitment to guest satisfaction align perfectly with my own values. I look forward to contributing to the continued success of the property and creating memorable experiences for all our guests."

About Crowne Plaza:

As one of world’s largest premium hotel brands with locations in city, airport, resort and suburban destinations, Crowne Plaza is perfectly placed to meet the needs of today’s guest, whether they are travelling for business, leisure, or a blend of both. 

Gaurav Paleja Appointed as Director of Sales at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar, July 2024: Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar is delighted to announce the appointment of Gaurav Paleja as the new Director of Sales. Joining the team from W Goa, Gaurav brings with him a wealth of experience in positioning resort as a leading luxury destination. His extensive experience in the luxury resort market, combined with his proven track record of success, makes him the perfect fit for Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar.

His nearly two-decade-long career includes notable stints at esteemed hotel companies such as Hilton Shillim (Pre-Opening), The Lalit Suri Hospitality, Sahara Star (Pre-Opening), and Aamby Valley. Gaurav's most recent success was as part of the pre-opening team for W Goa in 2016, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the W brand in the Indian market within just one year. His outstanding performance was recognized with the prestigious President Circle award in 2018 for exceeding budgetary goals. This achievement is a testament to his dedication, strategic acumen, and ability to drive results.

Gaurav Paleja’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar, as the hotel looks to expand and enhance its offerings. His ability to develop and implement effective plans to boost revenue, market share, and occupancy rates will be instrumental in driving the hotel's success.

Espire Hospitality Group appoints Shiv Mohan Marwaha as Head of Business Development, for driving growth

Currently the owner and operator of nine unique hotels under three brands, the company plans expansion by adding 20 more hotels in the next 2-3 years

Espire Hospitality Group, a swiftly growing hospitality company that owns, manages and operates the luxury boutique resort brand ‘ZANA Luxury Resorts’ and the mid-segment brand ‘Country Inn Hotels & Resorts’ is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Shiv Mohan Marwaha as the Head of Business Development.

Shiv is a well-known industry veteran, with over 17 years of experience and an outstanding network across the industry, having successfully led numerous business development initiatives across various prestigious organizations like Justa, Golden Tulip, Lemon Tree, Zone by the Park, Sarovar Hotels, Fern Hotels, Royal Orchid, etc. His strategic vision, coupled with his extensive knowledge of market dynamics, makes him an invaluable addition to the leadership team.

In his new role, Shiv will be responsible for driving the growth and expansion of Espire Hospitality Group, identifying new business opportunities, and forging strategic partnerships. His leadership will be instrumental in enhancing the company’s market presence and achieving the ambitious growth targets.

Speaking on the appointment, Mr. Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer and MD, Espire Hospitality Group said “I am pleased to welcome Shiv to Espire Hospitality Group and lead business development at such a crucial expansion period of the company. Shiv has a wealth of experience within the sector and has been at the forefront of several important strategic initiatives in the region. I am confident that his knowledge, diverse experience, along with passion for hospitality will be invaluable, as we look to continue driving our growth”.

About Espire Hospitality Group

Espire Hospitality Group is the owning company of India’s most magnificent luxury resort ‘Six Senses Fort Barwara’, own and operate a mid-market resort chain ‘Country Inn Hotels and Resorts’ and operate a luxury boutique resort brand ‘ZANA - Luxury Escapes’ that is a confluence of luxury and top-notch hospitality. The group plans to open 20 hotels and resorts in next 2 to 3 years.

Espire Hospitality Group appoints Shiv Mohan Marwaha as Head of Business Development, for driving growth

Espire Hospitality Group, a swiftly growing hospitality company that owns, manages and operates the luxury boutique resort brand ‘ZANA Luxury Resorts’ and the mid-segment brand ‘Country Inn Hotels & Resorts’ is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Shiv Mohan Marwaha as the Head of Business Development.

Shiv is a well-known industry veteran, with over 17 years of experience and an outstanding network across the industry, having successfully led numerous business development initiatives across various prestigious organizations like Justa, Golden Tulip, Lemon Tree, Zone by the Park, Sarovar Hotels, Fern Hotels, Royal Orchid, etc. His strategic vision, coupled with his extensive knowledge of market dynamics, makes him an invaluable addition to the leadership team.

In his new role, Shiv will be responsible for driving the growth and expansion of Espire Hospitality Group, identifying new business opportunities, and forging strategic partnerships. His leadership will be instrumental in enhancing the company’s market presence and achieving the ambitious growth targets.

Speaking on the appointment, Mr. Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer and MD, Espire Hospitality Group said “I am pleased to welcome Shiv to Espire Hospitality Group and lead business development at such a crucial expansion period of the company. Shiv has a wealth of experience within the sector and has been at the forefront of several important strategic initiatives in the region. I am confident that his knowledge, diverse experience, along with passion for hospitality will be invaluable, as we look to continue driving our growth”.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Promotes Sidney DCunha To Director of Food & Beverage and Culinary

Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the elegant, luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, has just announced the promotion of Director of Culinary Sidney DCunha to Director of Food & Beverage and Culinary. 

Sidney, who joined Sofitel Mumbai BKC in 2022, has since then been instrumental in further developing the hotel’s robust culinary offerings. Through a series of unique food festivals, visits by a variety of guest chefs, and an immense interest in progressively bettering the hotel’s many restaurants and bars, Sidney has played an instrumental role in carving a niche for Sofitel Mumbai BKC on Mumbai’s innovative restaurant scene. What’s more, since his arrival. Sidney and his team have enjoyed numerous accolades for the hotel’s restaurants & bars, bestowed by some of the country’s finest publications and reputed organizations.

Sidney has also played a crucial role in the hotel’s adoption of Winnow, a food waste management solutions company which develops AI tools to help chefs run more profitable, sustainable kitchens, by cutting food waste in half. 

Having grown up in the busy metropolis of Mumbai city, Sidney has had an interest in food and cuisine since a young age, which led him to the Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai. Following this, he joined a leading luxury chain of hotels for a few years and honed his skills. His thirst for further specialization propelled him to pursue Food Service Management from Cornell University (E-Cornell, 2011), Hospitality Management (E-Cornell, 2012), and Food Safety: Managing with HACCP System from American Hotel & Lodging Education Institute (2012). 

Having worked with some of the leading Michelin star venues in New York, under celebrity Chefs such as Michel Roux Snr, Floyd Cardoz, and Hemant Oberoi in India, Sidney brings close to two decades of experience in the culinary space. His last assignment was with The Conrad Hotel in Pune, first as Executive Chef before becoming Culinary Director in January 2022. He recently bagged the third position in Power 25 Culinary, 2022 by Hoteliers Web.  

He first began his culinary journey in 2002, training at properties like the ITC Grand Maratha Sheraton and The Oberoi, Mumbai before joining the Taj Management Training Program, working at Taj hotels in Delhi and Chennai during this time.

Sidney then joined The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower in Mumbai, as Junior Sous Chef at Masala Kraft Kitchen, in 2006. This was followed by a year spent at The Taj Pierre New York and The Taj Boston, where he introduced Indian food to the hotel menus, as a specialty Indian chef. In 2008, D’Cunha returned to The Taj Mahal Palace & Towers in Mumbai, this time as Sous Chef (CDC) at Masala Kraft. In March 2012, he switched culinary focus and joined Golden Dragon as Sous Chef. 

In 2014, Sidney moved to Bangalore to join The Ritz Carlton there as Chef de Cuisine during the hotel’s pre-opening. He quickly moved to the role of Executive Sous Chef, working across restaurants, banqueting, and events. In 2015, he moved to Pune and the JW Marriott Hotel as Executive Sous Chef. He then joined the brand’s Mumbai property from 2017-2019, before joining 

Throughout his career, Sidney has developed rich culinary experience and the ability to cater to both Indian and international palates. He also brings with him a deep knowledge of structuring culinary teams, launching new culinary concepts, and working with large-scale banqueting, all while keeping an eye on the bottom line. 

When not in the kitchens of Sofitel Mumbai BKC, Sidney is often seen engaging with his guests and entertaining them with his stories from across the seas.  During his downtime, he likes catching football matches and spending time with his family. 

Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim Appoints Amit Baranwal as Director of Finance

National | July 2024: Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim are delighted to announce the appointment of Amit Baranwal as the new Director of Finance. Amit brings with him a wealth of experience of over 12 years in the hospitality industry. 

Amit's key priorities as Director of Finance will be to ensure financial stability, optimise profitability, and enhance operational efficiency with specific tailored initiatives to elevate the hotel's overall performance. He will also play a pivotal role in the implementation of financial forecasting, technology integration, sustainability initiatives, risk management, and revenue diversification.

A qualified Chartered Accountant with a flair for numbers, it is no surprise that Amit’s future professional path was already paved. His stint as Financial Controller at Hyatt Regency Kolkata catapulted his experience further making him in charge of overseeing financial reporting, cost saving measures and optimisation of cash flow.

"We are delighted to welcome Amit to the Novotel Goa team." said Mr. Sachin Maheshwary, General Manager, Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim. "Amit's extensive experience and proven track record in the hospitality industry make him an invaluable addition to our team. His expertise will undoubtedly enhance our financial stability and operational efficiency. We are confident that under his leadership, both our properties will reach new heights in profitability and performance."

"I am thrilled to be joining the Novotel Goa team and share my expertise. I am committed to applying my financial expertise and leadership skills to drive strategic financial initiatives for both properties." said Amit on his appointment. "Working closely with the team, I am eager to collaborate with stakeholders across the organisation and contribute to a culture of excellence and innovation in finance."

Outside of work and when not dabbling with numbers and statistics, Amit takes a keen interest in amping up his culinary skills and travelling around the world

Park Hyatt Hyderabad appoints Nagesh Dattatray Kamble as the Director of Engineering

Hyderabad,  July 2024 – Park Hyatt Hyderabad is delighted to announce the appointment of Nagesh Dattaray Kamble as the Director of Engineering. With over 28 years of extensive experience in Project Management and Maintenance Operations, Nagesh joins us from Courtyard Mumbai, where he held the position of Director of Engineering.

Throughout his distinguished career, Nagesh has amassed a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having worked with prominent organizations such as Accor Hotels, The Lalit, The Park Hyderabad, Ramada Caravela Beach Resort, JW Marriott Mumbai, Transerrect Engineers. 

His exceptional communication skills complement Nagesh's technical proficiency, ability to foster relationships, and talent for building effective teams. His analytical mindset, problem-solving capabilities, and detail-oriented approach further enhance his ability to drive organizational success.

“We are delighted to welcome Nagesh to the Park Hyatt Hyderabad family,” said Shrikant Wakharkar, Area Vice President and General Manager of Park Hyatt Hyderabad. “At Hyatt, we are committed to delivering unparalleled service and creating exceptional guest experiences. Nagesh’s extensive experience, dedication to excellence, and strong alignment with our values make him a valuable addition to our team. We are confident that his expertise will play a pivotal role in our continued pursuit of excellence and innovation.”

Park Hyatt Hyderabad is excited to welcome Nagesh and looks forward to the expertise and innovation he will bring to the property. 

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road welcomes new Executive Chef Lokesh Ekambaram

Bengaluru, Karnataka – July, 2024 – Lokesh Ekambaram has been appointed as the new Executive Chef of DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road. This 172-room hotel, located at Iblur Gate, Marathahalli-Bellandur-Sarjapur Outer Ring Road, Sarjapur Main Road, Bengaluru, has been welcoming guests since January 2014. In his new position, Chef Lokesh will manage all culinary operations at the hotel. Additionally, he aims to broaden the culinary offerings by introducing new concepts in outdoor catering and curating festive themes throughout the year at the hotel's award-winning restaurants.

Regarding his new role, Chef Lokesh expressed, “I am excited to lead the entire culinary team at DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road. Being a chef allows me the freedom to be creative, experimenting with flavors and adjusting recipes to make dishes unique. The job’s constant change and interaction with different people and cultures keep it exciting and dynamic.”.

Chef Lokesh began his career in 2006 as a Commi at The Oberoi Bangalore, bringing with him over 19 years of experience specializing in European and Arabic cuisines. He has refined his skills and expertise through extensive experience at renowned establishments such as The Oberoi, Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, The Leela Palace, and Marriott International. Prior to joining DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, he spent over two years with Hilton Chennai. His passion for pushing culinary boundaries has taken him on international adventures in the Maldives, where he immersed himself in different culinary cultures, expanded his repertoire, and honed his craft.

Mr. Shakti Singh, the General Manager of the hotel, expressed his excitement about Chef Lokesh joining the team, emphasizing his expertise and innovative approach to culinary arts. With Chef Lokesh on board, we look forward to elevating our culinary offerings and maintaining our reputation for gastronomic excellence in Bengaluru.”

Chef Lokesh holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management from the SRM Institute of Hotel Management in Chennai. He began his career in the cold kitchen, gradually honing his skills in the hot kitchen with a focus on fine plating. Over time, he expanded his culinary expertise to include Japanese, Arabic, basic Asian, and Indian cuisines.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else, and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key.

IndiaFirst Life Strengthens Its Leadership with Two Industry Veterans

IndiaFirst Life Strengthens Its Leadership with Two Industry Veterans Varun Gupta joins as President & CDO – Bancassurance and Sumeet Sahni joins as President & CDO – Agency & Alliances

Hyderabad, July 2024: IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Ltd (IndiaFirst Life) announced the appointment of Varun Gupta as President & Chief Distribution Officer (CDO) – Bancassurance and of Sumeet Sahni as President & Chief Distribution Officer (CDO) – Agency & Alliances. The new appointments are part of the company's strategy to further strengthen its distribution network in line with its growth plans.

Rushabh Gandhi, MD & CEO, IndiaFirst Life, said, "We are delighted to welcome Varun and Sumeet to our core leadership team. Their experience and expertise in building and managing robust distribution networks will be instrumental in driving our strategic growth initiatives. Varun and Sumeet’s dynamism in building sustainable and value-driven business, aligns well with IndiaFirst Life’s #PeopleFirst and #CustomerFirst ideologies. I am confident that their contributions will be pivotal in our journey towards becoming a leading life insurance provider in India."

Varun Gupta comes with 27+ years of experience in building businesses with strong fundamentals. He was previously associated with Max Life Insurance for more than 23 years in key leadership roles. Varun has over the years created and inspired high performing teams and led change & distribution transformation at scale. In his new role, Varun will be responsible for spearheading IndiaFirst Life’s Bancassurance partnerships and fostering new relationships to grow a strong distribution network.

Sumeet Sahni brings 26+ years of overall experience and is a veteran in the life insurance industry. He was previously associated with organisations like Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance, and Max Life Insurance. Sumeet has a proven track record of building and scaling up agency and partnership channels, driving business growth and profitability, and leading large and diverse teams. In his new role, Sumeet will be responsible for building the Agency & Alliances channel at IndiaFirst Life.

With a strong leadership team in place, IndiaFirst Life is poised for continued success and growth.