Lilac Hotels Appoints Kannan as Hotel Manager to Elevate Guest Experiences

Lilac Hotels, a distinguished name in the realm of luxury hospitality, is delighted to announce the appointment of Kannan as its esteemed Hotel Manager. With a distinguished career spanning fifteen years in the hospitality industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

Kannan embarked on his journey in the hospitality sector in 2006, commencing with his Diploma in Hotel Management and concurrent Industrial Training. His remarkable career started as a Front Office Associate at Lemon Tree Hotels. His prior role as Hotel Manager at Lemon Tree Hotel Vadodara contributed to the property's recognition as the Best Business Hotel in 2019 by Tourism of Gujarat, highlighting his dedication and proficiency.

Shruti Shibulal,CEO & Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences said, "We are delighted to announce the appointment of Kannan as the Hotel Manager at Lilac Hotels. His extensive industry experience and unwavering dedication align seamlessly with our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. With Kannan at the helm, we are confident that Lilac Hotels will continue to set new benchmarks in the realm of luxury hospitality."

Lilac Hotels eagerly looks forward to Kannan's leadership and is confident that his expertise will play a pivotal role in further elevating the standards of service and guest satisfaction.

About Tamara Leisure Experiences :

Tamara Leisure Experiences is a leading hospitality brand that curates exceptional stays at exquisite properties, with a strong focus on sustainability and a deep appreciation for nature. Each Tamara property offers guests an opportunity to create unforgettable memories amidst stunning surroundings, while being treated to guest-centric services and genuine connections.

With a clear vision to be a World-Class Institution built on Responsible & Memorable Hospitality, Tamara strives to harmonize people, planet, and profit within a new model of responsible hospitality. Guided under the visionary leadership of Shruti Shibulal, CEO of Tamara Leisure Experiences Pvt. Ltd., the company is deeply committed to establishing and operating properties across the hospitality industry in India and abroad with an aim aim to leave a positive and lasting impact on the world, one exceptional experience at a time.

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Swiggy SteppinOut's Founder Safdhar Adoor joins VRO Hospitality

Safdhar Adoor, the Founder and Director of Swiggy SteppinOut, has joined VRO Hospitality, India's fast-growing F&;B fine dining chain, as Co-Founder and Director.

Safdhar is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 10 years of experience in the F&;B industry. Safdhar had co-founded SteppinOut, one of India's largest event management companies that offers experiences to people, in 2014, and saw the successful acquisition of it twice in a span of just two years, first in 2020 by Dineout, a division of Times Internet, and again subsequently in 2022 by Swiggy.

For Safdhar, 30, joining VRO Hospitality is like a homecoming of sorts as he had founded the group in 2018 with his two friends Dawn Thomas and Sharath Rice before moving out with SteppinOut in 2020.

Safdhar's addition will bolster VRO's leadership at a time when the group is aggressively chasing expansion and growth in newer markets. The Bengaluru-headquartered group has already expanded in newer markets like Mumbai, Kolkata, Goa, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Ooty in the last 12-18 months as it prepares to become a pan-India brand. Safdhar will be tasked to increase the entertainment quotient across VRO Hospitality’s brands and craft specially curated events to offer a superlative experience to connoisseurs.

“We are delighted to have Safdhar in the fold at a critical juncture for VRO Hospitality,” said Dawn Thomas, CEO &; Co-Founder of VRO Hospitality. “We are in the middle of an aggressive expansion plan across key markets of the country aimed at growth and profitability. Being an integral part of VRO Hospitality, Safdhar's addition in the leadership will provide us with strategic guidance towards that direction.”

Sharath Rice, Director and Co-Founder, VRO Hospitality added, “We are extremely excited to have Safdhar back in VRO. His role as a key strategic thinker will bolster our growth roadmap as we move into newer markets with our aggressive expansion plan.”

In his new role, Safdhar will be responsible for driving VRO's growth strategy, as well as overseeing the group's operations and marketing. He will also play a key role in the development of new brands and concepts for VRO.

I am extremely excited to be back in VRO Hospitality at a time when the group is looking at an exciting phase ahead. Leading the group’s journey on road to growth and profitability will be an exciting task for me as we explore new markets and newer revenue models.

VRO Hospitality owns some upscale lounges and restaurants across Bengaluru, Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Ooty. Some of their brands include Badmaash Lounge, Mirage, Plan B, Taki Taki &; Cafe Noir. VRO is on an expansion drive nationally and internationally with brands such as Badmaash, Cafe Noir and Taki Taki being the pioneers in pitching the VRO flag in uncharted territories.

With nine brands which include Hangover, Badmaash, Taki Taki, Cafe Noir, Mirage, Nevermind, Plan B, One night in Bangkok, Tycoons &; Holy Doh at Bangalore, Ooty, Mumbai, Kochi, Kolkata &; Hyderabad summing up to over 40 outlets, VRO has established a diverse range of premium brands. Each brand has been meticulously crafted with a beautiful storyline woven throughout every aspect of the brand, including food, beverages, ambience, events, and other experiences.

Vedagiri Rajaram, Director of Operations, JW Marriott Kolkata – Marriott International

JW Marriott Kolkata is pleased to announce the appointment of Vedagiri Rajaram as their new Director of Operations. An accomplished hotel industry veteran with more than 15 years of experience, Vedagiri has a proven track record in overseeing bustling food and beverage operations, demonstrating formidable analytical acumen, consistently attaining exceptional guest satisfaction scores, and spearheading revenue generation and optimization initiatives.

Vedagiri possesses a diverse skill set that includes creating financial budgets by closely scrutinizing historical data and projecting future budgets, thus contributing to the financial stability of the organization. He prides himself on enhancing the department and organization's reputation by accepting ownership of new and challenging tasks, always exploring opportunities to add value to his accomplishments.

A dynamic professional, Vedagiri started his career by working with Hotel Royal Orchid, Bangalore as a Management Trainee and his past roles included leading hotel brands such as Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, Hyderabad, The Leela Palace, Udaipur, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Mumbai, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel.

This highly motivated and versatile Operations leader has enjoyed an exponential career growth with top tier hospitality brands since completing his graduation in Bachelors in Hotel Management from Christ College, Bangalore.

Vedagiri finds immense joy in dedicating his leisure hours to photography, indulging in

the exploration of new destinations during his travels.The individual loves to travel on

his Honda CBR 1000R bike. His passion for music extends across a diverse range of

genres, making it a delightful part of his leisurely pursuits.

Dr Sandip S Tapkir has been appointed as the 1st Principal of Maharashtra State owned IHM at Solapur

Maharashtra state government - Directorate of tourism has announced the opening of a new IHM at Solapur city in Maharashtra affiliated with National Council of Hotel Management New Delhi. It is spread in 5 acres of land next to kambar lake, a natural beautiful surrounding along with reserve forest.   

The state IHM has renamed as Swami Samarth Maharashtra Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology, it has a state of the art modern kitchen restaurant and all the necessary laboratories as per the NCHM norms.

The Admission begins for the academic year 2023/24 for the Bsc in hospitality & Hotel Administration degree program ( 3 years) along with diploma in Food production ,diploma in F & B , Diploma in Bakery (1.5 years) Norms as per the state government and NCHM.

Dr Sandip S Tapkir has been appointed as the 1st Principal of this Maharashtra State owned IHM at Solapur by the Directorate of Tourism through the interview process conducted earlier in the month of May 2023. 

Dr Tapkir has huge hospitality Academic & industry experience. Earlier he was with MGM University -IHM as the director at Aurangabad, before this he performed long service to Ajeenkya D Y Patil University - School of Hotel Management Pune as head of hotel management. Being a hospitality leader guided many students and faculty, as a research guide at the previous universities. His core subjects are F & B service, controls, HRN, Entrepreneurship, Leadership.

He has completed his Ph.D in Management from Savitribai Phule Pune University, he is alumni of MSIHMCT Pune a state government autonomous HM college.

Hr has been awarded the Leadership Award, Best Principal Award, Innovative Teacher award by the various bodies.   

He has authored two books- 1. Food & Ayurveda 2. Responsible Tourism and also published 16 research papers in various conferences and journals. Instrumental in organising national & international conferences, seminars, FDP and many more, Being a research fraternity, appointed as examiner in Phd viva and RRC selection committee to various universities. He is also appointed as editor to book chapters to IIP journals. Published to chapter books. 

He has done commendable work in tourism, sustainable & Responsible tourism practices- awareness & awakening of the same conducting various drives.

He is a member of various hotel & hospitality bodies, research bodies, reviewer, editor to journals. Presently, he has been given the tremendous task of setting up a new IHM and making this institute as the Center of Excellence for Hospitality & Tourism Skill training in Maharashtra, India.

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Espire Hospitality Group’s upcoming ‘Country Inn Premier’ hotel in Dehradun appoints Pradeep Singh Panwar as the Executive Chef

Country Inn Premier – The Prominence, Dehradun, planned to open on 11th August, 2023, appoints Pradeep Singh Panwar as the Executive Chef. With an illustrious career in culinary operations that spans over two decades, Chef Pradeep will be spearheading the unique and evocative dining concepts that the hotel will offer.

Chef Pradeep’s extensive experience in culinary operations with renowned hospitality brands such as Intercontinental Hotel Group, Grand Hyatt, and Radisson Hotel Group makes him an ideal fit to launch and establish the well-planned fresh concepts for the curious and experimental diners of Dehradun.

Unlike the conventional way of dining, the hotel has curated two different dining scenes at the same venue to match guests’ mood on the basis of days of the week. One will be able to relish an ‘unlimited Indian and Asian fare’ at the hotel’s weekends only restaurant ‘Ameya’s Kitchen’ as they start getting into the weekend mood of indulging in endless dining pleasures, while the weekdays restaurant ‘Where the heart lies’ would serve a wide range of the most popular Asian, Continental and progressive Indian culinary delights.

Equipped with the creative vision and dedication to excellence, Chef Pradeep is poised to elevate the dining experience for Dehradun audience. His passion for utilizing locally sourced, quality produce will enhance the culinary offerings and offer the best of hygiene standards.

Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer, Espire Hospitality Group, shared his excitement, stating "We are delighted to welcome Chef Pradeep to our team and are eager to create a dining scene that will give our guests a reason to keep visiting their favourite dining spot repeatedly. We are confident that Chef Pradeep will be an invaluable asset, infusing his creativity, vast experience, and impressive culinary style to curate dining experiences that are both indulgent and nourishing."

 About Country Inn Premier – The Prominence, Dehradun

Conveniently located on the Dehradun - Mussoorie road, ‘Country Inn Premier - The Prominence, Dehradun’ overlooks the tranquil Malsi forest and majestic Himalayan range. The upscale hotel is a tasteful amalgamation of modern aesthetic and enriching experiences that promises an elevated stay in Dehradun. Featuring 42 contemporary guestrooms, destination dining options and with every detail crafted carefully, the hotel is sure to offer lasting memories. At ‘Country Inn Premier - The Prominence, Dehradun’, experience the well-known ‘Country Inn’ hospitality that is heartfelt and intuitive, spacious interiors and premium amenities for an inspiring stay.  

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.

Chalet Hotels Limited elevates Stephen D’Souza to AVP – Cluster Operations

Chalet Hotels Limited, a leading hospitality company, announces the elevation of Stephen D’Souza to the position of Associate Vice President (AVP) - Cluster Operations with effect from April 2023. With a remarkable tenure of over four years with the company, Stephen has consistently exhibited exceptional leadership skills and contributed significantly to its success. Equipped with an extensive background of more than 22 years in the hospitality industry, including stints with renowned brands, Stephen brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.

In his new capacity as AVP - Cluster Operations, Stephen will undertake the responsibility of seamlessly managing Four Points by Sheraton Navi Mumbai in Vashi, The Resort Mumbai, and The Dukes Retreat in Lonavala. He will play a critical role in overseeing the operational success of these hotel properties, ensuring seamless guest experiences, and upholding Chalet’s commitment to exceptional service.

Furthermore, he will continue in his current role as the General Manager at Four Points by Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi.

With an exemplary track record of leadership, dedication, and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry, Chalet Hotels is confident that Stephen will contribute significantly to the ongoing growth and success as the Company navigates the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.

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Kunal Sabharwal joins Espire Hospitality Group as Director of Sales.

Kunal Sabharwal joins the group as the Espire Hospitality Group as Director of Sales. In his new role, Kunal will be responsible for developing and executing strategic sales initiatives and driving revenue growth.

Having spent over two decades in the hospitality industry, Kunal brings with him a wealth of experience. He has worked with India’s leading hospitality brands including Accor, Hilton, ITC, Ananta Hotels & Resorts and Radisson. His impressive background and demonstrated ability to build and nurture customer relationships, drive sales performance, and exceed revenue targets will contribute significantly to Espire Hospitality Group’s continued expansion and success.

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.

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New Appointment | Sanjay Kumar, Director of Operations, Espire Hospitality Group

Espire Hospitality Group, a swiftly emerging hospitality company, is excited to announce the appointment of Sanjay Kumar as Director of Operations. With an impressive background and extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Sanjay will play a crucial role in optimizing operations, streamlining processes, and driving overall efficiency within the organization.

Sanjay brings over 15 years of experience in operations management and has demonstrated the ability to develop and implement strategic plans, optimize workflow processes, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Having worked with brands like DLF, Radisson Hotel Group,

Accor and Lemon Tree, Sanjay has consistently delivered exceptional results by effectively managing resources, fostering teamwork, and implementing innovative solutions.

As the Director of Operations, he will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the company, ensuring seamless coordination between departments, and implementing best practices to enhance productivity and customer satisfaction. With his exceptional leadership skills and a proven track record of success, Sanjay is well-positioned to contribute to the continued growth and success of the group.

ITC Maratha, Mumbai appoints Saransh Mehan as the Food & Beverage Manager.

In its commitment to people growth vision 2023, ITC Maratha Mumbai appoints; Saransh Mehan as the Food & Beverage Manager for its 380 rooms & 7 Restaurants and Bars, large scale luxury operations.

Prior to this role, Saransh was associated with ITC Grand Goa as the Assistant Food & Beverage Manager; and holds an impressive business track record of 5 years with the group.

A seasoned hospitality professional with over a decade of experience in food & beverage in the hospitality, Saransh’s well-rounded experience makes him the ideal leader for this key role where his responsibilities will include managing a host of branded cuisine outposts of the group such as Dum Pukht and Peshawri; and soon to launch Avartana and Yi Jing.

A native of Delhi, Saransh started his career as the STEP under-trainee from Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development- The Oberio Vanyavilas, before moving two major new opening projects The Ritz Carlton Bangalore and JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. Apart from this, he also has had an international stint with Hotel Emirates Palace Kempinski- Abu Dhabi and later with Lite Bite Foods, adding perspective to his well-rounded approach to the world of dining.

He considers his soft-skills in people management as his biggest strength; creating memories for guests through unique dining experiences has always fascinated Saransh. He thrives on developing new ideas and concepts, innovative and creative ways to improve the service standards to delight guests.

As the F&B manager at ITC Maratha, Mumbai; Saransh plans to invest time in growth and development of associates and empowering them to provide exceptional guest service. He would also like to focus on innovation and implementation of new trends in food and beverage operations.

A social media enthusiast, he enjoys exploring the newest trends in Food52 to keep himself up to date on International and Local dining trends. His roots in bartending and mixology are well reflected in his collection of certificates in courses in the beverage world.

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Novotel Hyderabad Airport Appoints Kishwar Jahan As The New Marketing & Communications Manager

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is pleased to announce the appointment of Kishwar Jahan as their new Marketing & Communications Manager. With nearly 9 years of experience in the field of Sales & Marketing and nearly 3 years of entrepreneurial experience, Kishwar brings a wealth of expertise in advertising, hospitality, entertainment, beverage and fitness industries.

Kishwar is recognized for collaborating with clients and advising them on new marketing techniques and prospective target audiences. She has a route-to-market expertise with notable skills in devising brand management and positioning strategies, developing brand identity, and rolling out innovative campaigns.

“Kishwar’s expertise in marketing will be an asset to our team”, said Sukhbir Singh, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Airport. “Her innovative thinking, strong communication skills, and excellent problem-solving abilities will help us drive brand awareness and profitability”.

Prior to joining Novotel Hyderabad Airport, Kishwar was a Senior Manager - Key Accounts at John Distilleries in Hyderabad, where she developed and analyzed new business opportunities and worked across multi-brand sales channels and marketing campaigns. She has also managed end-to-end marketing plans, events, and campaigns, coordinating with multiple stakeholders.

Kishwar has an MBA in Marketing & Finance from IIPM, Delhi and a B.A. in Economics from Fergusson College. Her areas of exposure include strategic marketing planning, brand management & positioning, market research & analysis, revenue generation, 360 degree marketing campaign, and marketing & communication plans.

In her new role at Novotel Hyderabad Airport, Kishwar will be responsible for designing marketing strategies and plans, deploying successful marketing campaigns, and creating & implementing go-to market strategies to promote overall positioning of the brand. She will also evaluate data for strategic decision-making and work in close coordination with the Marketing, Operations and Sales Teams.

The Novotel Hyderabad Airport team is excited to have Kishwar onboard and is confident that her experience and skills will prove invaluable in driving the brand’s growth and success.

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Vakkaru Maldives Appoints Janice Vigo as New Director of Spa

Vakkaru Maldives is pleased to announce the appointment of Janice Vigo as the new Director of Spa, responsible for overseeing daily spa operations, including staff training, treatments and retail, fitness facilities, including yoga, meditation and wellness programmes.

With over 17 years of experience in the luxury spa and hospitality industry, Janice brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in spa and wellness management to the team. Prior to this, she held senior positions at Six Senses Laamu Maldives. Other leading luxury properties she worked at include One & Only Kanuhura Maldives, Constance Ephelia Seychelles, Fregate Island Private Seychelles by Oetker Collection, and Babylon Warwick Hotel Baghdad.

Janice has diplomas in Spa Start-up Management from the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (CIBTAC) and Spa Management from Raison d’Etre Spa & Wellness Consultancy. She is also certified in Oncology Massage for Cancer, Bentosa Fire Glass Cupping, Bamboo Massage, Ayurvedic Massage, Facials, Body Treatments, and Singing Bowls. She logged 200 hours in the RYT Hatha Yoga Teachers’ Training. In addition, she has also trained with international spa product brands such as Pevonia Botanica, Shiseido, Subtle Energy and Organic Pharmacy, and she has an excellent working knowledge of different spa-related software.

“I am thrilled to be part of the Vakkaru Maldives family and grateful to the management for placing their trust in me to lead the Merana Spa team and bring the spa experience to the next level,” said Janice. “The spa & wellness industry is becoming increasingly important and necessary. I believe that a holistic approach to enhance the quality of life, boosting emotional and physical well-being, and achieving balance within the body and mind is vital in today’s world,” she added.

Commenting on her appointment, Iain McCormack, General Manager, Vakkaru Maldives, said, “Janice Vigo’s appointment as Director of Spa will further strengthen our commitment to providing guests with an exceptional spa experience. We are confident that her vast experience and spa and wellness management expertise will bring new ideas and innovations to the resort.”

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Nitin Gohri has been appointed as the Director of Sales at ‘The Westin Goa’

The Westin Goa is pleased to welcome Nitin Gohri, a highly driven professional with over 12 years of experience in IHCL as their Director of Sales. He adds a great deal of industry knowledge and expertise to the MICE business.

Nitin will be further taking up the responsibility to lead and manage strategic sales, developing MICE strategies, and expanding the wedding portfolio for The Westin Goa. He has always focused on building long-term customer relationships and is respected for his ability to scale new business segments. Nitin is dedicated to deliver the finest standards of service.

Nitin began his career with the Regional Sales Team in Delhi before moving to the Taj Palace in New Delhi where he worked on several convention segments. Nitin’s last assignment was with Taj Lands’ End, Mumbai as the Director of Catering Sales, where he played an instrumental role in transforming the hotel’s positioning and delivering remarkable commercial excellence for the property.

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