ITC Hotels- Reorganisation Announcement Atul Bhalla, Vice President Operations- North & West, ITC Hotels, India

Mumbai, Friday, October 2023: In the recent re-organization development; Atul Bhalla is elevated to the office of Vice President Operations for ITC Hotels North & West region. He would play a critical role in driving operational excellence for the fast-paced portfolio of existing lifestyle and luxury mix brands for the division; and continue to lend strategic support in successful completion of upcoming projects; with astute focus on asset-right growth strategy for the brand.

As a key member of ITC Hotels’ leadership think tank, Atul has nearly completed 3 decades donning various senior management roles with ITC Hotels.

In the recent leadership announcement, Atul will wear the new title of Vice President Operations- North & West, ITC Hotels India; from New Delhi. He is responsible for creating and executing a strategic road map working with the Divisional Chief Executive, General Managers, and functional heads to drive stakeholders’ value (for owned, managed and franchise properties); and continue to gain on brand equity.

 Atul’s journey with the group started in 1998 at ITC Kakatiya, Hyderabad and since then, he has held various Senior Management positions across various ITC Hotels in Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai. But its’ not all work and no play, as Atul’s downtime are spent on Golf Courses improving a handicap; or chasing the adventure off-road with his stick shifts.

 Some of the noteworthy achievements of his tenure include the successful launch of ITC Royal Bengal, the 14th luxury hotel of ITC in India and the metamorphosing the largest complex operation with ITC Sonar. Atul also played an integral part of the pre-opening ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, two of ITC Hotels’ biggest and grandest properties for the group. Latest in the expertise includes successful inception to launch of the newest lifestyle brands Storii & Mementos from the group’s stables.

Pride Hotels Group Appoints Mr. Jayesh Wadher As The Corporate Human Resource Manager

Pride Hotels Group, a leader in the Indian hospitality industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jayesh Wadher as the Corporate Human Resource Manager. Mr. Wadher brings to the table an exceptional track record spanning over two decades in Human Resources within the hospitality sector.

Prior to joining Pride Hotels Group, Mr. Wadher served in notable positions across several esteemed hotel chains. Most recently, he was part of Accor Group of Hotels. His extensive experience also includes tenures at The Lalit Mumbai, Radisson Blu Resort, Novotel Goa, The Deltin Hotel, and Pan India Paryatan Ltd, the parent company of Essel World and Water Kingdom.

Mr. Wadher began his illustrious career in 2005 as a Human Resource Executive with Royal Palms, Mumbai. Over the years, he has honed his skills and demonstrated proficiency in various facets of Human Resource Management.

"Jayesh Wadher's appointment comes at a significant juncture as we aim to expand our reach and continue providing excellent service to our guests. His proven expertise in Human Resource Strategy, Policy, and Organizational Development will be valuable in fostering a high-performance culture," said Mr. Atul Upadhyay, Executive Vice President at Pride Hotels Group.

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Appoints Yogesh Pansare as the new Food and Beverage Manager

Bengaluru, October 2023: Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Yogesh Pansare as the new Food and Beverage Manager. With an impressive career spanning 16 years, Yogesh brings a wealth of experience working with renowned brands such as Marriott International, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Hyatt Regency Pune, and Hyatt Regency Mumbai.

In his new role at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, Yogesh will oversee a range of vital responsibilities, including managing all food and beverage operations including the three restaurants, Bar, In-room dining, and banquets. He will also take care of revenue management, staff management, menus, problem resolution, and event curation. Additionally, he will supervise corporate and functional strategies, focus on exceptional customer service, maximize profitability, and ensure the delivery of the brand promise to our guests.

Yogesh is a passionate and goal-oriented professional, dedicated to achieving outstanding results. His extensive experience has led to a remarkable track record of consistently outperforming competitors in the industry. His skill set encompasses budgeting, customer insights, operational expertise, resource optimization for increased revenue, recruitment, creative thinking, and innovation. He is a team player with a clear vision for success.

Yogesh holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Mumbai University and a Postgraduate degree from K-IHM Mumbai, specializing in Front Office, Accommodation Operations, Food and Beverage Production, and Service. His robust educational background, combined with his vast experience in the hospitality industry, makes him an ideal fit for this role.

In his leisure hours, Yogesh finds solace in the world of books, indulging his passion for reading. We are confident that his expertise and dedication will greatly contribute to the success of Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal. 

Lords Hotels Group has appointed Dipak Dewan as General Manager to spearhead the leadership of their 3 properties: Denzong Shangrila Lords Inn, New Orchid Lords Inn and Orchid Lords Eco Inn at Gangtok

Lords Hotels Group has appointed Dipak Dewan as General Manager to spearhead the leadership of their 3 properties: Denzong Shangrila Lords Inn, New Orchid Lords Inn and Orchid Lords Eco Inn at Gangtok.  

Dipak has enjoyed a long association of over 15 years with renowned brands holding varied positions and has ably led teams. He will now oversee the overall operations and management of all the 3 properties with a cumulative inventory of 70 room’s in the capital city of Sikkim set amidst pristine hills.    

Mr. Sudhir Jena - Vice President Corporate, commented on the appointment: “We are very excited to have Dipak join the Lords family as he brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to our team. I’ve no doubt that Dipak will do a commendable job and develop a fantastic local team in Gangtok.“

Pride Hotels Groups appoints Mr. Chandrashekhar Belose as Corporate Chief Engineer

Pride Hotels Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Chandrashekhar Belose as the Corporate Chief Engineer. With over 26 years of experience in engineering within the hospitality sector, Mr. Chandrashekhar brings a wealth of expertise and a solid track record in overseeing complex engineering projects.

Mr. Belose has garnered extensive experience from his previous associations with reputable establishments such as Novotel Hotels, Hilton Hotels Mumbai, Ibis Hotels, Inox Cinema, and Sun N Sand Hotels Mumbai. His most recent role was as Chief Engineer at Novotel Juhu Mumbai. In each of these positions, he has demonstrated an exemplary ability to manage and improve the physical infrastructure of hotels, ensuring top-notch quality and operational efficiency.

"We are delighted to welcome Mr. Chandrashekhar Belose to our team. His addition strengthens our engineering department and gives us the advantage of experienced leadership in our endeavour to become more sustainable and energy-efficient," said Mr. Atul Upadhyay, Executive Vice President – Pride Hotels Group.

One of the key responsibilities in his new role at Pride Hotels Group will be to lead sustainability measures across the portfolio. Mr. Chandrashekhar will work towards making Pride Hotels more energy-efficient, reduce its carbon footprint, and implement state-of-the-art green technologies.

Mr. Chandrashekhar Belose's appointment will significantly contribute to the excellence and sustainability goals of Pride Hotels Group.

Pride Hotels Group has strategically positioned itself in approximately 56 exceptional locations across India, offering a total of 5,390 rooms, 109 restaurants, 152 banquet facilities, lawns, and conference halls. The group operates and manages a range of hotels under various brands, including "Pride Plaza Hotel," an Indian Luxury Collection; "Pride Hotel," conveniently located central business hotels; "Pride Resort," situated in mesmerizing destinations; mid-market segment hotels known as "Pride Biznotel"; and a fresh concept of premium luxury serviced apartment stays, "Pride Suites." These brands have earned acclaim from celebrities, corporate clients, as well as domestic and international tourists.

Pride Hotels Group's current locations span New Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Nagpur, Bengaluru, Chennai, Goa, Jaipur, Indore, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Mussoorie, Puri, Gangtok, Anand, Alkapuri, Manjusar (Vadodara), Sasan Gir, Somnath, Bhopal, Haldwani, Ranakpur, Rishikesh, Digha, and Rudraprayag, among others. Upcoming destinations include Daman, Bhavnagar, Surendranagar, Agra, Dwarka, Jabalpur, Bharuch, Nainital, Jim Corbett, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Varanasi, Rajkot, Kanpur, Neemrana, Mysore, Gurugram, Aurangabad, Halol, Yavatmal, Greater Noida, Motera (Ahmedabad), Lonavala, Ambaji, Veraval, Amritsar, and many more.

Fortune Resort Benaulim Goa welcomes Chaitra Dwivedi as the new General Manager

 Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC hotel group, announced the appointment of its − Chaitra Dwivedi who has recently taken over as General Manager of Fortune Resort Benaulim Goa.  

Chaitra provides a wealth of expertise and experience to her new position, as she has over 16 years of experience in the hotel industry and a 20-year career in the hospitality sector. Her career includes pre-opening exposure to four properties and valuable tenure with esteemed brands such as Lemon Tree Hotel, The Grand Imperial, Pride, Golden Tulip, Clarks, and Jaypee demonstrating versatility across luxury, budget, mid-scale, heritage, corporate, and resort properties.   

She began her journey in the hospitality world through the sales and marketing department, demonstrating her prowess in building and nurturing key relationships. Over the years, she has successfully transitioned through various roles, including front office and revenue management, before ultimately overseeing the overall operations of hotels over the course of her career.  

Ms. Dwivedi's educational background includes a science degree with a focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, reflecting her dedication to both precision and creativity in her work. She is also a passionate pet lover. Her diverse range of hobbies includes parasailing, biking, adventure sports, and music. In addition, Chaitra holds a black belt in Taekwondo and proudly participated in the Republic Day Parade on Rajpath as an NCC Cadet, reflecting her discipline and commitment. 

In acknowledgement of her outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry, Chaitra was honoured with the "Outstanding Contributions to the Hospitality Industry" award in 2021 and "Goa's Best General Manager" award in 2022 by Best of India Biz Awards. Furthermore, she received the "Women Achiever Hospitality Award" from IHC London and IIHM Goa in 2023, highlighting her remarkable dedication and achievements in the field. 

Fortune Hotels welcomes Chaitra with open arms and looks forward to her contributions to enhancing the guest experience at Fortune Resort Benaulim Goa.  

Ossiano Appoints Julien Gardin As General Manager And Thomas Domingues As Head Sommelier

Julien Gardin, General Manage

Ossiano at Atlantis, The Palm, announces the appointment of Julien Gardin as General Manager and Thomas Domingues as Head Sommelier.

In the wake of a remarkable year for the one Michelin-star restaurant, the two notable talents are set to elevate the award-winning dining experience even further as it enters a new era of excellence. Julien, with over two decades of experience in prestigious fine-dining restaurants around the world, now oversees Ossiano. He leads a high-performing team, and enhances service and operational performance, all while sharing his passion for exceptional guest experiences.

Before joining Ossiano, Julien held various leadership positions. Most recently, he served as the General Manager at Andō in Hong Kong, guiding the restaurant to Michelin-star status, securing a coveted spot on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list in 2023 as well as a diamond on Black Pearl restaurant Guide. Prior to this, Julien led The Tasting Room in Macau, a distinguished two-Michelin-star restaurant in City Of Dreams. His earlier experience includes serving as a Restaurant Manager at the acclaimed three-Michelin-star Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, London. Before joining Alain Ducasse, Julien spent eight incredible years at three Michelin-starred restaurant, The Fat Duck by Heston Blumenthal in the UK, serving in various roles.

Thomas Domingues, Head Sommelier

Another notable addition to Ossiano is Thomas Domingues, who has joined the team as the Head Sommelier. With a unique approach to wine, he emphasises storytelling as the essence of his philosophy. Hailing from the scenic south coast of Portugal, Thomas’s French heritage has provided his palate with a deep appreciation for exquisite flavours and refined techniques. He has worked in Michelin-star restaurants, including AOC in Denmark, Loco in Portugal, and Belcanto by José Avillez in Portugal which is no.25 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. With four years of experience at Vila Joya Hotel & Spa in the Algarve which was ranked at no.37 in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Thomas has learnt the art of crafting a sensory experience for guests by weaving stories through every wine pairing, leaving an indelible mark on diners.

2023, to date, has been an extraordinary year for Ossiano. As well as a debut ranking of 87th best restaurant in the world in The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2023, Ossiano also ranked 4th and highest new entry in the 2023 Middle East and Africa's 50 Best Restaurants list. In June 2023, Ossiano also retained its Michelin star in Dubai's 2023 Michelin guide, and in April 2023, Ossiano was awarded the most highly rated restaurant at the world-leading restaurant guide Gault&Millau, where it took a four-toque status, as well as Restaurant of the Year.

M.R. Synrem joins as the Managing Director, ITDC

Sh. M.R. Synrem, IAS officer of 2002 Batch, Assam-Meghalaya Cadre has joined as the Managing Director of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) in addition to his existing role as Joint Secretary and Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

During his career so far, Sh. Synrem served as Secretary in the Health & Family Welfare Department, Mission Director of the Meghalaya State National Health Mission and CEO of Megha Health Insurance Scheme in Meghalaya.

In a span of over two decades, he has demonstrated adept administrative expertise in spearheading the projects, schemes and initiatives in the Information Technology & Communications Department, the Transport Department, the Urban Affairs Department, the Commerce & Industries Department etc in his parent cadre.

Fairfield By Marriott Appoints Amit Chakraborti as Executive Chef

The newest Marriott property in Mumbai – Fairfield by Marriott, Mumbai International Airport announces the appointment of Amit Chakraborti as Executive Chef. He will be taking care of overall culinary team.

Amit comes with an extensive experience of 18 years across various luxury, lifestyle and business hotels. 

Prior to Joining Fairfield by Marriott, Amit has also worked with Brands like Le Meridien Nagpur as Executive Chef, Lemon Tree Premier Mumbai, Courtyard by Marriott Chakan, Hyatt, Sahara Star and Intercontinental Marine Drive. 

In his current role at Fairfield by Marriott Amit will be instrumental in Processes like managing the execution of all operations in the culinary department, focusing of guest satisfaction, and delight and adding new innovations for the hotel. He will be leading the culinary team while assisting to exceed property goals.

Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre Appoints Aasif Malik Baig as the Crowne Meeting Associate Director

Ahmedabad, 2023: Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre is delighted to welcome aboard Mr. Aasif Malik Baig as the new Associate Director. His principal responsibilities for his position include planning and implementing the hotel's sales and strategy, optimizing revenue and budgeting, finding business prospects through corporate events, setting annual budgets, and analyzing revenue reports and strategy. Additionally, he also supervises marketing strategy formulation, forecasting, catering, travel management, business intelligence, and customer service. 

Mr Aasif hails from the city of Raipur, Chhattisgarh. He is an enthusiastic and goal-oriented professional, and his spectacular career just adds to his commitment. Aasif's perennial prowess as an individual with over 12 years of expertise in the sales domain is unquestionable, as seen by his resume. He has created a portfolio of unrivaled competence with an astonishing track record of outperforming potential competitors on an industrial level. His sheer dedication, integrity, detailed planning, account management, customer insight, operational knowledge, and implementation of innovative solutions help him excel in his line of work.

Before joining Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Aasif served as the Senior Sales Manager at Hotel Indore Marriott. He started his career at Hyatt Raipur as an Assistant Sales Manager. Throughout his career span of 12 years, he has held various managerial positions at Le Meriden Goa Calangute, Hyatt Regency Lucknow, and Holiday Inn Chandigarh-AN IHG Hotel. During his tenure with Radisson Blu Indore, followed by Hotel Indore Marriott he has been crucial in honing his expertise and leadership skills. During his leisure hours, he finds solace in focusing on his health and fitness as well as playing numerous sports to help him unwind and relax.

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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DoubleTree Hilton Goa - Panaji Appoints Mycherla Santosh Kumar as their new Executive Chef

Panaji, October, 2023: We are proud to announce the appointment of M. Santosh as the Executive Chef, who brings an extraordinary wealth of experience and culinary excellence to DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji. With an illustrious career that spans across continents and numerous accolades under his belt, Chef M. Santosh is set to lead the culinary team to new heights of gastronomic delight.

Expressing his gratitude, Chef M. Santosh says, "My passion for exploring new flavors and creating unique culinary experiences drives me every day. It's a privilege to be a part of the vibrant food culture in Goa and continue pushing the boundaries of gastronomy"

Having previously graced the culinary teams of esteemed establishments such as Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia, Zuri White Sands Goa Resort & Casino, Fortune Miramar Goa, and his last assignment being Park Regis, Goa, Chef Santosh is no stranger to accolades, having been named  ' the most admired chef 2022 ' by the World Leadership Congress- Asia,  2017-18 Best chocolate showpiece and Silver award for best wedding cake at Aahar F&B expo,recognized as Employee of the Month and Best Team Player at Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia.

Among his notable experiences, Chef M. Santosh has honed his skills in restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs such as Chef Marco Pierre White, Chef Trevor, and Chef Atul Kocchar further solidifying his reputation as a culinary virtuoso.

When not crafting culinary wonders, Chef M. Santosh, thrives on exploring new destinations, immersing himself in local cultures, and savoring authentic culinary delights. He also seeks solace in offbeat places for trekking.

"We are delighted to welcome Chef M. Santosh to our culinary team, an extraordinary chef whose love for travel, authentic experiences, and fine cuisine adds a unique and exciting flair to our resort. His exceptional talent and culinary expertise are sure to elevate our dining offerings, providing our guests with a truly unforgettable experience," said Harshad Nalawade, General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji.

Paul Isaac Miller Achieves Prestigious Recognition: Pinned with Golden Keys and Appointed Chief Concierge by Les Clefs d'Or

Paul Isaac Miller, awarded and certified by the esteemed international association Les Clefs d'Or, synonymous with exceptional hotel concierges, marks a pivotal milestone. As Chief Concierge, his unwavering dedication, expertise, and commitment to unmatched personalized service shine.

Rooted in Paris since 1929, Les Clefs d'Or embodies a legacy of excellence, integrity, and service for nearly a century. Globally, it sets the definitive benchmark in hospitality.

Mr. Miller proudly dons the emblem of the Golden Keys, representing unparalleled service and concierge expertise. This extraordinary achievement reflects unwavering dedication, profound knowledge, and unparalleled personalized service.

"We take great pride in having Paul in our team, where he plays a pivotal role in enhancing the guest experience " affirmed Kunal Shanker, General Manager of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort. "His commitment to service, combined with his exceptional skills, perfectly aligns with our core values.

Mr. Miller's journey as Chief Concierge is a testament to his dedication to excellence. He continues Les Clefs d'Or's legacy, ensuring guests indulge in sophisticated, personalized experiences at InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort.

Prudhvi Rajkumar Has Been Appointed The New Director Of Sales For Park Hyatt Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Telangana 2023 Park Hyatt Hyderabad is pleased to announce the appointment of Prudhvi Rajkumar as the Director of Sales. Prudhvi holds an impressive academic and professional background with more than 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has completed an MBA from UBI University in Chennai and holds two diplomas, one in Aviation and the other in Hotel Management.

His work experience showcases his expertise in the hospitality and service industry. By managing and liaising with key operational departments to ensure guest requests and seamless customer expectations are met, he began his career as a Customer Service Supervisor at Paramount Airways, Chennai. He then advanced to the role of Assistant Sales Manager at The Raintree Hotel and further climbed the ladder to become a Sales Manager at The Park, Chennai.

His most recent role was as Director of Sales at Hyatt Regency Chennai, where he spent the last 8+ years as part of the Hyatt family.

Prudhvi is known for his enthusiasm, sincerity, and strong work ethic. His success stories include securing contracts with entertainment sectors, closing repatriation businesses during the pandemic, and generating substantial revenue from pharmaceutical and renowned corporate clients.

"Passion, perseverance, and prayers help me find confidence and dedication in my work and life," shares Prudhvi.

His career exemplifies dedication, achievement, and leadership in the hospitality industry. We warmly welcome Prudhvi to our team.

About Park Hyatt Hyderabad: 

The first urban Park Hyatt hotel in India, designed by renowned architecture firm of John Portman & Associates, the modern eight-story Park Hyatt Hyderabad includes 185 guestrooms, 24 suites and 41 service apartments; all being among the city’s most spacious hotel accommodations. With contemporary, elegant hotel interiors by Hirsch Bedner Associates, the hotel is the first in Hyderabad to offer 42 fully serviced luxury apartments - The Residence. It boasts about a premium location, close to the technology hub of Hi-Tech City and the business districts, and 45 minutes from Hyderabad’s international airport. The Spa designed with a Nizami theme houses the blend of attars and instrumentals wafting through the air, technology and tradition intertwining and new beauty’s intersection with ancient wisdom. The Spa offers a true respite from the rigors of the day-to-day by effortlessly offering royal rituals. Award winning Northern-Italian, Pan-Asian, Indian and European signature restaurants offer hand crafted culinary delights while spacious and technology friendly meeting spaces portray perfect venues for social and corporate gatherings. 

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.

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts appoints Subhro Mukhopadhyay as Area General Manager - Rajasthan & Goa

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, one of India's rapidly expanding hospitality chains, is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Subhro Mukhopadhyay as the new Area General Manager for Rajasthan & Goa.

In his new capacity, Mr.Mukhopadhyay will assume responsibility for the day-to-day operations of Cygnett Park B.L Jaipur, along with overseeing other hospitality brands within the company's portfolio in both Rajasthan and Goa. 

Commenting on this significant appointment, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder, and Managing Director of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts expressed his conviction by stating, "Mr. Mukhopadhyay is a seasoned leader renowned for his expertise in Operations Management, Cost and quality Control, Team Management, and Development. His contributions will play a pivotal role in attaining our organizational goals and propelling us toward heightened excellence within the hospitality industry." 

Mr. Mukhopadhyay brings over 21 years of extensive experience in hospitality operations, having previously worked with renowned brands such as The Fern Hotels, Royal Orchid, IHG, The Zuri Hotels, The Chancery Hotels, and Hyatt. Additionally, he has enjoyed successful tenures with notable aviation companies, including Qatar, Lufthansa, and Sahara. 

"I am excited to be a part of the Cygnett family which apart from being a rapidly growing hospitality company is also known for its strong work culture and growth opportunities. I am looking forward to playing a constructive role in the future growth plans of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts," said Mr. Mukhopadhyay.

FHRAI Announces New Leadership; Pradeep Shetty Elected As Its New President

New Delhi, September: The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), India’s apex body and voice of the hospitality industry, held its 67th Annual General Meeting on 28th Sept 2023 in the capital. During the AGM, the members of the FHRAI unanimously elected Mr Pradeep Shetty – Director, Maharaja Hotels, Mumbai as its President and he will take charge of the office from 1st January 2024. Prior to this, Mr Shetty held the position of Vice President and has been an actively engaged member of the Association for more than a decade. Mr Shetty presently also serves as the President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI).

With his knowledge in corporate law, along with his deep understanding about the legal and regulatory ecosystem for the tourism and hospitality business, Mr. Shetty has been instrumental in FHRAI’s legal interventions, for almost a decade. The MRP judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, CCI’s order against the anti-competitive practices of MakeMyTrip and OYO, the famous Cable TV tariff relief against Broadcasters and the Hon’ble Delhi High Court order staying the CCPA guidelines against levying of service charge are some significant achievements of FHRAI which hold strong imprints of Mr. Shetty’s commitment to fight for the benefit of the hospitality industry.

“In the role of President at FHRAI, I am committed to addressing several pressing priorities with a sense of urgency. We intend to actively engage with the Government for creating a more conducive regulatory framework for the hospitality sector and the long pending request of the sector for granting infrastructure status is top of our agenda. This can be a game changer by facilitating long-term loans at competitive interest rates to accelerate growth in the sector. More stimulus packages and incentives are required from the government to equip the sector to achieve the ambitious target of welcoming 100 million international tourists by 2047, which include a favourable GST regime and ease of Doing Business measures in hospitality,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty.

Among other important challenges of the industry, Mr Shetty has been pursuing concerns over music copyright matters, service charges matters and anti -competitive activities by big tech companies, which are adversely affecting the members of the Federation. 

“I am deeply honoured to take on this role and lead FHRAI, an organization that has played a pivotal role in shaping the hospitality landscape of our country. I thank all the regional associations and Executive Committee members for reposing faith in me. We are committed to advancing the interests of our members and the entire industry. Together, we will strive for excellence, nurture innovation and create a thriving environment for hospitality in India. FHRAI will embark on proactive policy advocacy in the space of online travel, GST rationalization for Restaurants and creation of an energetic environment for the growth of tourism in India through favourable fiscal policies and ease of doing business” concludes Mr Shetty.

The Executive Committee also elected the new ‘Office Bearers’ of FHRAI, who supervise the routine affairs at the Federation. Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, Mr. K Nagaraju and Mr. T S Walia were elected as the Vice Presidents from Hotel & Restaurant Association of Northern India (HRANI), The South India Hotels & Restaurants Association (SIHRA) and Hotel & Restaurant Association of Eastern India (HRAEI), respectively. Mr DVS Somaraju has been elected as Hony. Treasurer and Mr. Nirav Gandhi as the Hony. Secretary, while Mr. Sudesh Kumar Poddar and Mr. Amarvir Singh will serve as Jt. Hony. Secretaries of the Federation.

Mr. Sandeep Pal has been appointed as Operation Manager at The Fern Habitat, Candolim, Goa

Sandeep Pal takes over as Operation Manager of The Fern Habitat, Candolim, Goa. Mr. Pal has over two decades in the industry, having worked with renowned hotel chains like Radisson, ITC, Novotel, Kenilworth Resorts and Spa, and Taj Hotel Mumbai. His expertise lies in food and beverage operations, with a strong track record in launching and managing successful restaurants and bars. As a dedicated and motivating leader, Sandeep prioritizes enhancing the guest experience and fostering a positive workplace environment. Known for his boundless energy and enthusiasm, he approaches all tasks with vigor.

He is excited to assume the role of Operation Manager at The Fern Habitat Candolim Goa, the brand's inaugural luxury apartment hotel in Goa. With a commitment to delivering a memorable and opulent experience, he is confident that The Fern Habitat Candolim Goa will emerge as a premier destination in the region.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra appoints new general manager

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra has announced the appointment of Hanno Barkhoff as its new general manager. With over 20 years of experience within the luxury industry, he has worked extensively across various Kempinski hotels

Barkhoff started off in event sales & food and beverage at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin in 2002. After gaining experience at several renowned hospitality brands across the globe, Barkhoff returned to Germany in 2016, heading two of Kempinski’s flagship European hotels in Berlin and Munich as hotel manager over the past seven years.

The German national brings a wealth of knowledge, a strong understanding of luxury hospitality and experience to the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra in his new role as general manager. “Particularly, his savvy, hands-on, and dynamic approach will be a great asset for the successful implementation of the ambitious food and beverage concept designed to elevate guests’ dining experience at the hotel”, the property said.

“I’m thrilled to continue my journey with Kempinski at this beautiful hotel in Accra,” said Hanno Barkhoff on his appointment. “The Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra is well positioned as a market leader in the hotel industry in Ghana and I’m confident the dedication, passion and desire of the team to consistently create memorable experiences for all guests remains unwavering. Together, we will continue to delight guests, surprise them with fresh hotel offerings and showcase the seamless fusion of Ghana’s famed hospitality and local tradition with Kempinski’s European heritage.”