New Meliá Pattaya Hotel Appoints Peter Laird as F&B Director

PATTAYA (April 2025) – An Irish and British national with two decades of hospitality experience in Asia and Europe has been named Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s director of food and beverage.

Peter Laird has joined the 234-room Meliá Pattaya to create culinary and beverage concepts and menus and to deliver quality hospitality through training and analysis.

He will also manage the revenue and costs of the hotel’s rich culinary landscape, featuring the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar, that serves Cantonese cuisine with some Sichuan choices, all-day dining restaurant Sanehh Sarae that specialises in fresh, locally sourced seafood, and Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei restaurant Den.

Laird has worked in Thailand since 2018. Before joining Meliá Pattaya, Laird was the director of F&B at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. Previously, he was the assistant director of F&B at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit and opened the hotel’s Belga Rooftop Bar & Brasserie.

In the early to mid-noughties, he studied at Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College in England. Laird went on to become the banquets and events manager at Matfen Hall Golf & Spa Hotel, general manager of All Bar One venues across England and the general manager at Brouge Twickenham before moving to Thailand.

“Peter is a results-driven and versatile professional with a track record of bringing remarkable projects to fruition, pin-pointing sales opportunities and encouraging positive efforts from his entire team,” said Meliá Pattaya’s General Manager Javier Gimeno. “He will undoubtedly thrive in making our F&B landscape Pattaya’s most desirable place to dine.”

“You’re only as good as your team and I have a history of developing my teams and promoting from within,” Laird added. “When we hire the right team and nurture their talent effectively, we are in a prime position to promote from within.”

Grand Mercure Mysore Welcomes Manoj Singh Bisht As Rooms Division Manager

Mysore,  April 2025 - Grand Mercure Mysore is pleased to announce the appointment of Manoj Singh Bisht as its new Rooms Division Manager. With over 11 years in the hospitality industry, Manoj has showcased a deep understanding of guest services, front office operations, and seamless room management.

As the Rooms Division Manager at Grand Mercure Mysore, Manoj will oversee guest services at Grand Mercure Mysore, ensuring seamless operations while maintaining exceptional service standards. His role also involves addressing guest needs and implementing strategies to drive revenue growth and optimize the department’s financial performance.

Manoj embarked on his professional journey as a Front Office Supervisor, steadily advancing to become a Guest Service Executive, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in hospitality. In his most recent role as Director of Guest Services at ibis Bengaluru Hosur, he played a key role in elevating service quality and operational efficiency. His extensive experience includes working with prestigious hospitality brands such as IHG Hotels & Resorts, ITC Hotels, and Le Méridien, refining his expertise in luxury service and guest experience management.

Expressing his delight, Manoj stated, "I am thrilled to join the team at Grand Mercure Mysore. I look forward to working together to create seamless and memorable stays, ensuring every guest feels the genuine warmth of Mysore hospitality. I am committed to raising the bar and setting new standards of excellence for our guests."

Parag Shah Appointed As General Manager At Grand Mercure Bangalore

Bangalore, April 2025 - Grand Mercure Bangalore is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Parag Shah as its new General Manager. 

Mr. Shah brings with him over two decades of rich and diverse experience in the hospitality industry, including more than ten years with Accor, where he has successfully led and contributed to iconic brands such as Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Novotel, and Mercure. Before this appointment, he served as General Manager at Mercure Hyderabad KCP, where he played a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and elevating guest satisfaction, earning multiple industry accolades, including “General Manager of the Year” by FHRAI and Accor South Asia. 

A results-driven leader, Mr. Shah is known for his strategic vision, commitment to service excellence, and deep understanding of the evolving needs of today’s travelers. His leadership at Grand Mercure Bangalore will focus on enhancing guest experiences, driving sustainable growth, and nurturing a culture of excellence among the team. 

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Shah said, “I am honored to join Grand Mercure Bangalore  and look forward to working with the talented team here to further elevate the hotel’s offerings  and create memorable experiences for our guests.” 

Grand Mercure Bangalore welcomes Mr. Shah and looks forward to his leadership in taking  the property to new heights.

Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar appoints Mr. Amit Kapoor as the General Manager

Amit Kapoor is all set to embark on a new and exciting journey from Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar where he has been appointed the General Manager. Amit is ready to take on an all-encompassing role of the General Manager at newly opened Mercure Lucknow and will be responsible for the hotel’s overall performance in addition to front-lining all conversations.

In a career spanning more than two decades in the hospitality industry, Amit has impressive track record of success as he held prominent leadership positions at esteemed luxury brands, including Grand Hyatt, Marriott and Accor, shaping his reputation as a dynamic hotelier with a strategic vision. Before joining Mercure, he served as General Manager at Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, a leading hospitality firm. His career highlights also include roles such as Director Food and Beverage at Hyatt Chandigarh and Food and Beverage manager at Marriott International, where his leadership contributed to the hotels’ enduring success.

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Welcomes Neil James as the General Manager

National, April, 2025 – Sheraton Grand Palace Indore is delighted to welcome Neil James as its General Manager. With 18 years of hospitality experience, marked by robust leadership, operational expertise, and a keen focus on guest satisfaction, Neil is set to drive significant value for the hotel.

As the General Manager of Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, Neil will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences, driving strategic growth, and strengthening the property’s positioning in the market. His extensive knowledge in hospitality management, coupled with a passion for innovation and service excellence, will further enhance the hotel's reputation as a premier destination for luxury stays, dining, and events.

Neil's notable 18-year career showcases a remarkable trajectory, beginning as a Front Office Associate and culminating in roles like Director of Rooms. His extensive experience spans renowned brands such as Four Points by Sheraton, Le Meridien, and Courtyard by Marriott, both domestically and internationally. Most recently, as General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Vadodara, he significantly elevated the hotel's market standing and service quality. His contributions to the hospitality industry have garnered him significant recognition. He received the Hotel Bloggers Association's 2024 'Best General Manager, Gujarat' award, the prestigious Stephen G. Marriott Culture Award in 2018 for his positive workplace cultivation, and led his previous hotel to achieve the Platinum & Golden Circle Award for two consecutive years, showcasing his dedication to exceptional service.

On his appointment, Neil said, “Stepping into this role at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore is an honor. I'm excited to join this exceptional team and contribute to the hotel's continued success. My vision centers on elevating guest experiences through innovative approaches, ensuring seamless operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of excellence. I believe in empowering our team to deliver unparalleled service, creating truly memorable stays for every guest. Together, we will build upon the hotel's strong foundation, embracing new opportunities and solidifying its position as a leading destination in the region.” 

Beyond the world of hospitality, Neil finds balance and rejuvenation through his passions for reading and maintaining an active fitness regime.

Holiday Tribe Strengthens Leadership Team with Key Appointments

National, April 2025: Holiday Tribe, a travel-tech company redefining leisure travel, has announced significant appointments to its leadership team. The brand welcomes Varun Anand as Head of Marketing and Nikhil Kher as Head of Strategic Alliances. These additions reinforce the company’s commitment to transforming the holiday experience for modern travelers.

“We are thrilled to welcome Varun and Nikhil into the Holiday Tribe fold,” said Anshu Sharma and Chirag Goyal, Co-founders of Holiday Tribe. “With the brand at a pivotal stage of growth, we are excited about the expertise and passion they bring to the leadership team. Together with our dedicated team of Tribers, they will help us deliver exceptional experiences and drive the next phase of our journey.”

Leadership Strengths
Varun Anand, with over 16 years of marketing experience, will spearhead Holiday Tribe’s marketing strategy. His role will focus on elevating brand awareness, expanding digital outreach, building consumer engagement, and strengthening the brand’s positioning in India's competitive travel market. Anand, who has previously worked with Adobe, MakeMyTrip, and Vodafone, is known for his success in launching impactful marketing campaigns and creating strong brand identities.

“I am excited to embark on this remarkable journey with Holiday Tribe,” said Anand. “My focus will be on creating deeper brand preference and driving brand love as we continue to innovate and grow.”

Nikhil Kher will take the helm as Head of Strategic Alliances, building partnerships aligned with Holiday Tribe’s vision for the travel sector. With 18 years of experience in hospitality and travel-tech, Kher is an expert in strategic planning and revenue management. His expertise comes from leading roles at RateGain, Key Hotels, Ginger Hotels, and OccuMax, among others.

“By fostering strong partnerships and driving innovation, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for growth in the travel and tourism industry,” said Kher.

Innovation in Travel
For over two years, Holiday Tribe has been setting benchmarks in holiday planning through cutting-edge technology and deep travel expertise. The company has introduced instant customized packages with expert assistance and an AI-powered self-planning and booking platform. These initiatives position Holiday Tribe as India’s first leisure travel brand to disrupt the self-planning and holiday booking experience.

About Holiday Tribe
Holiday Tribe specializes in leisure travel, blending technology with human expertise to create memorable holiday experiences. The brand’s extensive supply network includes over 100,000 hotels and one million activities worldwide, catering to diverse traveler preferences. With partnerships across major tourism boards, including Mauritius, Dubai, Switzerland, and Australia, Holiday Tribe has curated holidays to over 30 destinations globally. Recognized as the Emerging Holiday Tech Company at the India Travel Awards 2023, Holiday Tribe aims to revolutionize travel for Indian holidaymakers.

Murugan Sailappan Joins The St. Regis Mumbai as Executive Pastry Chef

Mumbai, April, 2025: The city’s best address, The St. Regis Mumbai is delighted to announce the appointment of Murugan Sailappan as the new Executive Pastry Chef, boasting an illustrious career spanning across 19 years of exceptional expertise in the art of pastry and confectionery. 

Murugun is a highly skilled and innovative pastry chef, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an unmatched passion in the culinary arts. His strong ideals and gourmet traditions have served as milestones to his phenomenal success. Having started his journey as Demi Chef De Partie at Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Murugun has honed his craft at prestigious global brands such as Four Seasons, Conrad, Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott. In his most recent role as the Executive Pastry Chef at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, Murugun not only led the creation of exceptional pastries and desserts, but also provided training to the assistant pastry chefs, kept track of the daily operations of the kitchen staff, prepared the budgets according to the supplies and sales, and maintained the inventory and cost control within the budgetary restrictions. 

Murugun’s professional expertise is evident in his creations, which are distinguished by unusual textures and the meticulous incorporation of distinct flavours, all of which align seamlessly with The St. Regis Mumbai’s ethos of excellence. 

The St. Regis Mumbai welcomes Murugun’s extensive expertise and culinary skills, anticipating his valuable contributions to the esteemed establishment.

About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts

Combining classic sophistication with a modern sensibility, St. Regis is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at nearly 40 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses worldwide. Since the opening of the first St. Regis hotel in New York City over a century ago by John Jacob Astor IV, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests delivered flawlessly by signature St. Regis Butler Service. The ultra-luxury brand is set to expand its legacy to 50 hotels by 2018. For more information and new openings, visit stregis.com or follow Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. St. Regis is proud to participate in  the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest®, where members can link accounts with Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer.

Clarks Collection Appoints Mr. Nilesh Shukla as Associate Director of HR - Corporate

Clarks Collection is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Nilesh Shukla as Associate Director of HR - Corporate. With over a decade of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Shukla has worked with renowned hotel groups such as Taj, Carlson Rezidor Group, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels, and The Palms Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait.

Bringing a wealth of expertise in recruitment, training & development, payroll management, and human resource operations, he will play a pivotal role in strengthening Clarks Collection’s HR framework. In his new capacity, he will be responsible for designing HR policies, ensuring legal compliance across all properties, and enhancing employee engagement through structured training programs and welfare initiatives.

Before joining Clarks Collection, Mr. Shukla served as Talent Acquisition Manager at The Palms Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait, where he successfully implemented employee retention programs, streamlined recruitment processes, collaborated with government relations officers for documentation and visa processing, managed budgeting, and oversaw performance appraisals.

Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Nilesh stated: "I am thrilled and honored to be part of Clarks’ legacy, and I fully embrace the expectations that come with this role. Clarks Collection has ambitious expansion plans to strengthen its global presence. Hospitality is all about delivering exceptional guest experiences, and the staff plays a crucial role in achieving this. My priority will be to recruit the right talent for the right roles and establish structured HR policies that align with the company’s vision. Additionally, I recognize the importance of quality control and compliance, and in the coming days, several new processes and initiatives will be introduced to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction."

With Mr. Shukla’s expertise and leadership, Clarks Collection is confident in further enhancing its HR strategies and fostering a workplace culture that aligns with the brand’s commitment to excellence.

Naukuchia House, IHCL SeleQtions appoints Sanjeev Kumar as General Manager

Naukuchiatal, April 2025: Naukuchia House is pleased to announce the appointment of Sanjeev Kumar as its new General Manager. With nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Sanjeev brings a wealth of expertise in luxury hotel management, strategic planning, and operational excellence.

Sanjeev has an impressive track record of leading multi-site hotel and resort operations, driving profitability, and enhancing guest satisfaction. He has played a pivotal role in developing and executing growth strategies that have contributed significantly to the success of various renowned properties. 

A seasoned hospitality professional, Sanjeev has extensive expertise in operations management, service standardization, training, and guest relations. His ability to drive team performance and his commitment to customer satisfaction have consistently resulted in industry accolades and recognition.

Sanjeev is a postgraduate from the University of Huddersfield, UK, with a B.A. (Hons.) in Hotel Management. His career began with Taj Hotels, where he gained hands-on experience in various departments, including front office, food & beverage, and housekeeping, further shaping his holistic approach to hotel operations.

As General Manager of Naukuchia House, Sanjeev Kumar will focus on strengthening the brand’s legacy of excellence while implementing innovative initiatives to elevate guest experiences. His deep understanding of customer relationship management, resource planning, and sustainability will ensure that Naukuchia House continues to be a premier destination for discerning travellers.

Commenting on his appointment, Sanjeev Kumar said, "I am honoured to take on this role at Naukuchia House. The property has a rich heritage, and I look forward to enhancing its offerings, creating memorable experiences for our guests, and leading a team that is passionate about hospitality. My goal is to drive operational efficiency while ensuring that Naukuchia House remains a benchmark in luxury and sustainability."

A dynamic leader and strategic thinker, Sanjeev Kumar’s appointment marks a new chapter for Naukuchia House, reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and unparalleled guest experiences.

About Naukuchia House 

Perched on the tranquil shores of the renowned Naukuchiatal Lake, Naukuchia House – IHCL SeleQtions is an aristocratic perch by the lake of nine corners, offering a luxurious 42-key retreat embraced by mist-laden forests and crystal-clear lake waters. The resort presents exquisite dining experiences at Ija, an all-day restaurant serving authentic Kumaoni flavors through slow cooking and curated multi-cuisine selections with alfresco seating, and Himmaleh, a lounge and bar inspired by the majestic Himalayas. Unique facilities include a temperature-controlled outdoor pool, a luxurious spa, and exclusive lake access, complemented by immersive experiences such as forest bathing, stargazing, private picnics, and scenic nature trails.

The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Rajesh Gopalakrishnan as General Manager

New Delhi, April 2025—The Leela is pleased to announce the appointment of Rajesh Gopalakrishnan as the General Manager of The Leela Hyderabad. With over thirty years of experience in the hospitality industry, Rajesh brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to this prestigious property.

Rajesh has a proven track record in steering luxury hotels to new heights, having held key leadership positions across renowned hospitality brands. His extensive experience spans managing operations, business development, guest experience, and sustainability initiatives in both established and emerging markets. His previous roles include General Manager at Radisson Hotel Group, Novotel Visakhapatnam, and Grand Mercure Vadodara, as well as senior leadership positions with Accor and Greenpark Hotels & Resorts.

Throughout his career, Rajesh has demonstrated exceptional acumen in pre-opening projects, driving revenue growth, and implementing international hospitality standards. His tenure at iconic properties such as The Leela Mumbai, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, and Taj Coromandel Chennai has equipped him with a deep understanding of luxury hospitality and guest-centric service excellence.

A graduate of the Glion Institute of Higher Education, Switzerland, with an MBA in International Hospitality and Service Industries Management, Rajesh has also completed the prestigious International Hospitality Management Program from Accor Academy Asia, Thailand. His commitment to operational excellence, team development, and innovation aligns perfectly with The Leela’s vision of delivering unparalleled guest experiences.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Rajesh said, “I am honoured to join The Leela Hyderabad and be part of such an iconic brand. I look forward to leading the team in delivering world-class experiences and upholding The Leela’s legacy of hospitality and luxury.”

The Leela Hyderabad, renowned for its grandeur and impeccable service, continues to redefine luxury hospitality in the city. With Rajesh at the helm, the hotel is geared up for a new era of excellence and growth.

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Appoints Mayurdeepsinh Rathod as Director of Revenue

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai proudly announces the appointment of Mayurdeepsinh Rathod as Director of Revenue. Bringing over a decade of expertise in revenue management, strategic pricing, and market analysis, Mayurdeepsinh will play a key role in optimizing revenue strategies and reinforcing the hotel’s leadership in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

In his new role, Mayurdeepsinh will oversee revenue optimization, pricing strategies, market analysis, and distribution channels, ensuring that Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai remains at the forefront of the industry. His approach integrates data-driven insights, collaboration across departments, and cutting-edge technology to enhance guest experiences while driving profitability.

With an impressive portfolio spanning India’s most esteemed hospitality brands—including The Leela Palaces, Resorts and Hotels, The Lalit Mumbai & The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort, IHCL Gujarat Cluster, The Oberoi, Radisson Blu Hotel, Aamby Valley City, and Hotel Sahara Star—Mayurdeepsinh brings a wealth of knowledge in forecasting, strategic revenue planning, and optimizing financial performance.

Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, shared his enthusiasm for the appointment:
"We are delighted to welcome Mayurdeepsinh to the Four Seasons Mumbai team. His extensive expertise in revenue management will be instrumental in strengthening our market position and elevating our business strategy."

With his proven track record and forward-thinking approach, Mayurdeepsinh is set to bring fresh perspectives to Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, ensuring continued excellence in both service and financial performance.

JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity welcomes Chef Hem Singh as Executive Sous Chef

Chef Hem Singh has been appointed as the Executive Sous Chef at JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity, marking a significant milestone in his culinary career. With over 13 years of experience in esteemed kitchens across India, Chef Hem brings a wealth of expertise and creativity to the role.

Having honed his skills at celebrated properties such as Taj Lands' End Mumbai, Trident BKC Mumbai, JW Marriott Bengaluru, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, and most recently Raffles Jaipur, his culinary journey reflects a passion for Mediterranean, Indian, and Asian cuisines, as well as a keen appreciation for modern gastronomic trends.
His strengths in menu development, kitchen leadership, cost control, and exceptional guest dining experiences make him a valuable addition to the hotel's team.

Welcomed warmly by Chef Anuraag Narsingani, Director of Culinary, Chef Hem’s innovative approach and mentorship capabilities are expected to elevate JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity's dining offerings.
Chef Hem expresses excitement about bringing bold flavors and authentic experiences to the table, drawing inspiration from his diverse exploration of royal kitchens, modern gastronomy, and micro-regional cuisine. His appointment promises to enrich the culinary excellence of the hotel.

JW Marriott Kolkata announces the appointment of Mainak Ray as the new Director of Sales and Marketing

JW Marriott Kolkata announces the appointment of Mainak Ray as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. With over a decade of expertise in luxury hospitality sales across India, Mainak brings a strong strategic vision and a proven track record of success. Driving growth and excellence, in his new role, Mainak will oversee sales, marketing, and revenue operations, focusing on brand positioning, guest engagement, and revenue optimization.

His leadership will be instrumental in enhancing luxury experiences, weddings, and corporate events. A distinguished hospitality journey, Mainak holds a Master’s in International Management from the University of Sussex, UK, and started his career with Lebara Mobile UK before transitioning to the hospitality industry.


His previous roles at Hyatt, Accor, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, and Marriott International have contributed to his expertise in driving revenue growth and brand visibility. Industry leaders welcome Mainak Ray, who expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “I am deeply honored to join JW Marriott Kolkata, a hotel synonymous with luxury, innovation, and guest-centricity.
I look forward to working with the exceptional team to enhance our market presence and create unforgettable guest experiences.” Sunil Kumar, General Manager of JW Marriott Kolkata, added, “We are delighted to welcome Mainak Ray. His strategic acumen and leadership will be key to propelling the hotel’s growth and setting new benchmarks in luxury hospitality.”

Varun Mehrotra appointed Assistant Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Mayfair Hotels & Resorts

MAYFAIR Hotels has announced the appointment of Varun Mehrotra as the Assistant Vice President of sales and marketing at its Corporate Office. With a career spanning over 23 years, Varun brings extensive experience in sales leadership, strategic marketing, brand positioning, and revenue optimization. In his new role, he will focus on bolstering the brand’s market presence and spearheading sales and marketing initiatives across MAYFAIR's portfolio of 18 luxury resorts in eight states.

Varun’s journey in the hospitality industry began with the Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the sales and marketing strategies of renowned hospitality brands, including The Leela, Zuri Hotels & Resorts Ltd, Ista Hotels, Accor Group’s Fairmont Jaipur, and Khyathi Solutions. His expertise has helped these brands achieve greater visibility and sustainable growth.

At MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, Varun will oversee the development and implementation of a performance-driven sales and marketing strategy. His efforts will center on expanding market reach, optimizing sales channels, and leveraging data-driven insights for performance marketing. A key aspect of his role will involve strengthening high-revenue segments, such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and destination weddings, while building strategic alliances and enhancing brand positioning. Additionally, Varun aims to drive digital transformation and execute marketing campaigns designed to ensure long-term profitability for the organization.

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.

Novotel Mumbai International Airport appoints Deepika Jatwani as Guest Experience Manager

Novotel Mumbai International Airport has announced the appointment of Deepika Jatwani as the new Guest Experience Manager. In this pivotal role, Deepika is set to elevate guest satisfaction, enhance service quality, and create unforgettable experiences for all who visit.

With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Deepika is a seasoned professional. Her expertise lies in guest experience management and operational excellence, supported by her strong leadership capabilities and an in-depth understanding of customer needs. Her knack for crafting personalized experiences makes her an invaluable addition to the team.

Expressing excitement about the appointment, Rachita Sood, General Manager at Novotel Mumbai International Airport, shared, “We are pleased to welcome Deepika to Novotel Mumbai International Airport. Her dedication to elevating guest engagement and commitment to service excellence will play a pivotal role in enhancing our brand’s hospitality standards.”

Deepika’s passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences aligns seamlessly with the hotel’s dedication to offering outstanding service. Her proactive and innovative approach is expected to solidify Novotel Mumbai International Airport’s reputation as a preferred hospitality destination.

JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity welcomes Chef Hem Singh as Executive Sous Chef

JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity proudly announces the appointment of Chef Hem Singh as Executive Sous Chef. With an impressive culinary journey spanning over 13 years, Chef Hem joins the team with a wealth of expertise and an innate flair for creativity, promising to bring new dimensions to the hotel’s gastronomic offerings.

Chef Hem’s extensive experience includes working with some of the finest hospitality brands in India, such as Taj Lands’ End Mumbai, Trident BKC Mumbai, JW Marriott Bengaluru, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, and most recently, the pre-opening of Raffles Jaipur. His diverse career has allowed him to develop a deep appreciation for Mediterranean, Indian, and Asian cuisines while staying attuned to emerging trends in the culinary world.

Known for his mastery of menu development, kitchen leadership, cost management, inventory oversight, and crafting exceptional dining experiences, Chef Hem’s commitment to excellence sets him apart. His ability to innovate with flavors and mentor aspiring chefs further strengthens his reputation as a dynamic leader in the kitchen.

Welcoming Chef Hem to the team, Chef Anuraag Narsingani, Director of Culinary, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition. He highlighted Chef Hem’s creativity and dedication, emphasizing the potential for these qualities to elevate the hotel’s dining experiences and contribute significantly to guest satisfaction.

Chef Hem himself shared his excitement about the new role, reflecting on his rich culinary journey that has taken him across India. He spoke about the inspiration drawn from royal kitchens, contemporary gastronomy, and regional specialties, underscoring his belief in the profound connection between food and love. Chef Hem looks forward to introducing bold flavors and offering authentic dining experiences to guests at JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity, ensuring every meal becomes a memorable affair.

Clarks Collection Appoints Mr. Nilesh Shukla as Associate Director of HR - Corporate

Clarks Collection is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Nilesh Shukla as Associate Director of HR - Corporate. With over a decade of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Shukla has worked with renowned hotel groups such as Taj, Carlson Rezidor Group, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels, and The Palms Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait.

Bringing a wealth of expertise in recruitment, training & development, payroll management, and human resource operations, he will play a pivotal role in strengthening Clarks Collection’s HR framework. In his new capacity, he will be responsible for designing HR policies, ensuring legal compliance across all properties, and enhancing employee engagement through structured training programs and welfare initiatives.

Prior to joining Clarks Collection, Mr. Shukla served as Talent Acquisition Manager at The Palms Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait, where he successfully implemented employee retention programs, streamlined recruitment processes, collaborated with government relations officers for documentation and visa processing, managed budgeting, and oversaw performance appraisals.

Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Nilesh stated: "I am thrilled and honored to be part of Clarks’ legacy, and I fully embrace the expectations that come with this role. Clarks Collection has ambitious expansion plans to strengthen its global presence. Hospitality is all about delivering exceptional guest experiences, and the staff plays a crucial role in achieving this. My priority will be to recruit the right talent for the right roles and establish structured HR policies that align with the company’s vision. Additionally, I recognize the importance of quality control and compliance, and in the coming days, several new processes and initiatives will be introduced to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction."

With Mr. Shukla’s expertise and leadership, Clarks Collection is confident in further enhancing its HR strategies and fostering a workplace culture that aligns with the brand’s commitment to excellence.

Samvedna Suman Joins Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla as Marketing & Communication Manager

New Delhi, March 2025 – Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla is delighted to welcome Samvedna Suman as the new Marketing & Communication Manager. A seasoned digital marketer with 13 years of experience, she specializes in Brand Marketing, Public Relations, and Social Media Strategy. Samvedna has previously worked with leading advertising agencies, and her last assignment was with Eros Hotel, New Delhi Nehru Place.

Beyond her professional expertise, Samvedna is an avid reader and passionate about writing poetry, adding a creative flair to her storytelling and brand communication.

Welcoming her to the team, Mr. Ritesh Sharma, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, shared, “We are thrilled to have Samvedna onboard. Her dynamic approach, deep industry insights, and passion for creative storytelling will further elevate the brand presence of our hotel.”

We look forward to an exciting journey ahead with Samvedna leading the way in shaping our marketing and communication strategies.

Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre appoints ChandniP Sharrma as Cluster Commercial Director

Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre announces the appointment of ChandniP Sharrma as Cluster Commercial Director. With nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, she brings deep expertise in business planning, sales strategy, budgeting, and revenue management. In her new role, ChandniP will lead commercial initiatives aimed at driving growth and strengthening Hilton’s market presence in the dynamic hospitality landscape of North India.

ChandniP Sharrma has an impressive track record, having held leadership roles at renowned hospitality brands such as Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, and Shangri-La Hotels. Most recently, she served as Director of Sales and Marketing at a 395-key property in Gurugram with 40,000 sq. ft. of event space. Her tenure was marked by record-breaking revenue achievements and securing high-profile events.

Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre is located in the heart of Gurugram’s bustling business district and is celebrated for its world-class hospitality, modern accommodations, and exceptional service standards. ChandniP’s appointment highlights Hilton’s commitment to fostering high-performing teams and delivering market-leading results.

Expressing her enthusiasm for her new position, ChandniP stated, “I am excited to join Hilton. Hilton’s commitment to excellence and innovation aligns perfectly with my passion for driving commercial success. I look forward to working with the talented teams at Hilton Gurugram to strengthen market leadership, optimize revenue strategies, and enhance the guest experience.”

With ChandniP Sharrma's leadership, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre is poised to further elevate its market positioning, ensuring exceptional value for guests, partners, and stakeholders alike.