Nandan Gawde Appointed Food and Beverage Manager to Elevate Dining at The Fern Goregaon

The Fern Goregaon is delighted to announce the appointment of Nandan Gawde as the new Food and Beverage Manager. With over 12 years of comprehensive experience in the food and beverage sector, Nandan is poised to bring a fresh perspective and enhanced service excellence to the hotel’s dining offerings.

A graduate of IHM Guwahati, with a B.Sc. in Hotel and Hospitality Administration, Nandan’s career spans leadership roles at esteemed properties including ITC Maratha Hotel, The Deltin Daman, and Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport. His expertise lies in elevating guest experiences through meticulous service, operational efficiency, and a guest-centric approach. Nandan’s hands-on leadership and passion for culinary excellence have been key to his success in enhancing dining environments and driving team performance.

In his new role at The Fern Goregaon, Nandan will oversee the hotel’s renowned dining establishments, Alfresco and Fleur, while also preparing for the exciting launch of the rooftop Lebanese restaurant. He will focus on refining service standards, introducing innovative culinary concepts, and ensuring every guest experience is distinguished by excellence.

Nandan expressed his enthusiasm for joining The Fern Goregaon, stating, “I am truly excited to join The Fern Goregaon and look forward to collaborating with this talented team. My goal is to create exceptional culinary experiences that reflect the hotel’s ethos of sustainable luxury while incorporating innovative dining trends. We will strive to not only meet but exceed guest expectations with unique offerings that leave a lasting impression, making The Fern Goregaon a preferred destination for all our guests.”

The Fern Goregaon is confident that Nandan’s leadership will further elevate the hotel’s food and beverage offerings and set new benchmarks in hospitality.

Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West Appoints Mr. Sharad Singh as the Hotel Captain

Mumbai, September 2024 – Moxy Mumbai, Marriott International's vibrant lifestyle brand, is honored to announce the appointment of Mr. Sharad Singh as the Hotel Captain of the newly launched Moxy Mumbai in Andheri West. With an illustrious career spanning over 17 years and a long-standing association with the Marriott International family, Sharad Singh brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this dynamic role.

Sharad Singh has carved a niche for himself in the hospitality industry, showcasing exceptional leadership and operational acumen across various prestigious properties. His journey with Marriott began at the inception of his career, and since then, he has held several key positions, contributing significantly to the success and recognition of these establishments.

In his most recent role as Director of Operations at The Westin Goa, Sharad was instrumental in leading the hotel to win the 'Best Food and Beverage Hotel' in Marriott Asia Pacific Excluding China 2022. Prior to his tenure at The Westin Goa, Sharad served as Director of Food and Beverage at Sheraton Grand Pune and The St. Regis Mumbai.

Sharad's extensive background also includes key roles at JW Marriott Pune, Marriott Hotels and Resort Jaipur, and Renaissance Mumbai Hotel & Convention Centre. His expertise spans across operations, strategy planning, marketing and promotions, customer relationship management, and service excellence.

Sharad's leadership style is characterized by his enterprising spirit, strong analytical skills, and a genuine passion for guest satisfaction. His ability to connect with people from diverse cultures make him a perfect fit for Moxy's inclusive and vibrant ethos as he envisions a stellar roadmap for the hotel’s positioning within the hospitality landscape.

Sharad was instrumental in driving the pre-launch activities of the hotel  and building the teams. He will continue this exciting journey at Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West as Hotel Captain.  Sharad Singh's leadership and vision will undoubtedly play a crucial role in establishing Moxy Mumbai as a premier destination for modern travelers seeking a stylish and spirited stay experience and  for the ones that are young at heart.

Chef Asif Qureshi Joins The Iconic JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu As The Indian Master chef At Saffron

Mumbai, September, 2024 - JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Chef Asif Qureshi as the Indian Masterchef at Saffron, the renowned Indian specialty restaurant at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu.

Boasting over two decades of experience, Chef Asif is set to elevate the legacy of Indian cuisine at Saffron, perfectly aligning his journey with Saffron’s vision of showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of India.
Hailing from the esteemed Qureshi family of chefs in Lucknow, Chef Asif has gained invaluable experience and training from stalwarts like Chef Imtiyaz Qureshi, the Grand Master Chef, and Mohd. Sharif, Senior Master Chef at Dum Pukht at ITC Maratha. Carrying their legacy forward, Chef Asif has worked at some of the finest international and national hotels, including Grandeur Hotel Dubai, The St. Regis Mumbai, and JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar.

After his last role at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Chef Asif is set to bring his creativity and passion to his new position. His expertise shines through signature dishes like Kumbh Ki Gilawat, Doodhia Paneer Tikka, and Lagan Ki Boti, each boasting unique flavors crafted with specialized cooking techniques and ingredient knowledge. Chef Asif’s culinary prowess extends to artisanal Indian breads such as Lucknowi Kulcha, Taftan, and even Quinoa Paratha, which pair perfectly with the Kebabs and Main Course Indian dishes. His traditional sweets also complement his flavorful creations.

Rooted in his culture and traditional family recipes, Chef Asif’s food speaks of his gharana and the experiences he has gathered over his sublime years in the industry. As the Head Chef at Saffron, Chef Asif is poised to build upon the hotel’s legacy and ensure elevated culinary experiences for its guests. He aims for his creativity and authenticity to be reflected in every dish presented, bringing his visionary approach to JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu. 

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Asif Qureshi to the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu family,” said Chef Gaurav Malhotra, the Executive Chef of JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu. “His extensive experience and profound understanding of Indian cuisine make him the ideal fit for Saffron. We are confident that Chef Asif will continue to enhance our guests’ dining experiences with his exceptional culinary skills and innovative approach.”

Neha Rawat Joins Pride Elite Haridwar as General Manager

Neha Rawat has been appointed as the new General Manager of Pride Elite Haridwar, marking her third tenure with Pride Hotel Group. The announcement reflects Neha's longstanding association with the group and her vast expertise in hospitality management.

With over 15 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Neha’s brings a proven track record in managing front office operations, strategic planning, team leadership, and customer relations. Her previous roles include leading operations at Modi Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh and Pride Hotel & Resort in Rishikesh, where she was part of the pre-opening team.

Neha’s educational background includes a graduation from Kumaon University and a diploma in Aviation & Hospitality Management from Frankfinn Institute. She is currently pursuing her MBA from William Carey University. Her strong qualifications in sales, marketing, budget analysis, and organizational management are expected to bring a fresh perspective to Pride Elite Haridwar.

In her new role, Neha’s will oversee the overall operations of the hotel, ensuring compliance with the brand's standards while driving guest satisfaction, profitability, and market growth. Her leadership is anticipated to strengthen Pride Elite's position as a leading hospitality provider in the region.

“We are delighted to welcome Neha back to the Pride family,” said Mohammad Shoeb AVP-North India for Pride Hotel Group. “Her extensive experience and commitment to operational excellence will be instrumental in enhancing the guest experience and furthering the success of Pride Elite Haridwar.”

Neha’s appointment aligns with Pride Hotel Group's mission to deliver superior guest experiences through exceptional leadership and innovative strategies. With her at the helm, the property is set to achieve new milestones in service and operational performance.

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu Announces the Elevation of Abhishek Singh to Director of Rooms.

Mumbai, September, 2024:  JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is delighted to announce the elevation of Abhishek Singh to the role of Director of Rooms. This appointment marks a pivotal moment in Abhishek’s journey with Marriott International, where he has consistently exemplified exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Bringing over 12 years of extensive hospitality experience, Abhishek Singh has been a valued member of the Marriott family since 2019. His comprehensive understanding of hotel operations have consistently driven the implementation of efficient and effective processes, significantly contributing to the success of the organization.

In his previous role as Front Office & Loyalty Manager, Abhishek was instrumental in elevating guest satisfaction scores through the Medallia Guest Voice platform. He ensured that all Front Office operations aligned seamlessly with Marriott's strategic plans and stringent standards, while successfully collaborating with the revenue management team to achieve optimal occupancy. 

Prior to JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, Abhishek demonstrated a consistent record of success at some of the industry’s most prestigious establishments, including The Oberoi New Delhi, Novotel & Ibis Techpark Bangalore, and The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai.

As the new Director of Rooms, he will lead a diverse team of Front Office, Spa, and Gymnasium associates, while strategically recruiting and developing talent within the divisions. His deep-rooted understanding of the brand’s ethos and strategic vision will undoubtedly contribute to enhanced revenue, elevated guest experiences, and improved occupancy rates at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu.

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu looks forward to supporting Abhishek in his new role as he takes on this advancement in his career, along with expanded responsibilities.

Six Senses Fort Barwara Welcomes Rohit Saini as New Sustainability Director

INDIA, September 2024 Embracing the Six Senses philosophy of placing sustainability at the core of its operations, Six Senses Fort Barwara is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Rohit Saini as the new Sustainability Director. With a deep-seated passion for driving impactful environmental change, Rohit is set to enhance the resort's commitment to transformative practices.

Rohit’s journey in sustainability commenced with a degree in Urban and Environmental Planning, which further paved the way for a career in consulting focused on pivotal projects related to Circular Economy, sustainability, plastic and marine pollution, and waste management across India. His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with notable organizations such as the World Bank, the European Union, and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, UK. His work supported marginalized communities and addressed the challenges of over-tourism and waste management in various regions.

A transformative experience in the Himalayas ignited Rohit’s commitment to sustainable hospitality. Witnessing the environmental toll of unchecked hotel waste disposal and the need for greater tourist awareness in eco-sensitive regions, Rohit shifted his focus to improving sustainability within the hospitality sector.

At Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rohit will spearhead initiatives to enhance sustainability in energy, water, and waste management. His role involves implementing effective data capture and monitoring systems to ensure the minimization of the negative impact on the environment. In addition, Rohit will lead community outreach efforts at Six Senses Fort Barwara, including providing clean water access to local communities, thereby fostering a broader sense of responsibility beyond the resort’s boundaries.

"I am delighted to have Rohit as our new Sustainability Director at Six Senses Fort Barwara. Rohit's extensive experience and passion for working in the sustainability space align perfectly with our Six Senses philosophy. His approach will undoubtedly support our vision of adapting transformative practices, ensuring that our operations continue to emanate ecological responsibility and community engagement,” said Mr Aaron McGrath, Regional General Manager of Six Senses Fort Barwara.

"Rohit Saini’s noteworthy background in driving impactful environmental change and his dedication to improving practices within the hospitality sector are invaluable assets. We look forward to witnessing Rohit’s leadership in advancing our initiatives in environment management, as well as his efforts in extending our commitment to the local community,” said Mr Rajat Gera, Commercial Director of Six Senses Fort Barwara.

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Anamul Hoque as New Security Manager

Holiday Inn Agra is pleased to announce the appointment of Anamul Hoque as the new Security Manager. With nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Anamul brings a wealth of expertise and strategic leadership to our security team. His proven track record in ensuring safety and security aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing a secure environment for our guests and staff.

Anamul’s educational qualifications include a Post Graduate Diploma in Health & Safety and Fire Safety Management, which further complements his extensive experience. His appointment is a significant step towards maintaining the highest standards of safety at our hotel.
Outside of his professional achievements, Anamul is a dedicated family man, sharing his life with his wife, Nasreen. Together, they cherish family time and foster strong bonds. In addition, he is passionate about learning new languages, a hobby that reflects his commitment to continuous growth.

We are confident that Anamul’s leadership will play a key role in our ongoing success at Holiday Inn Agra. Welcome aboard, Anamul!

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Abhinav Agarwal as Chief Engineer

Holiday Inn Agra is delighted to announce the appointment of Abhinav Agarwal as our new Chief Engineer. With over 11 years of experience in engineering and maintenance across prestigious hospitality brands like Marriott and Taj, Abhinav’s leadership, expertise, and dedication are set to elevate our property’s operational standards.

Abhinav holds a B.Tech from Hindustan College, equipping him with a strong technical foundation. His specialization in preventive maintenance, energy management, and safety protocols will be pivotal in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of our hotel. Abhinav’s innovative approach to engineering will undoubtedly enhance the guest experience and contribute to our ongoing efforts towards operational excellence.

Outside of work, Abhinav enjoys spending time with his parents and is passionate about badminton, exploring new technologies, and socializing with friends and colleagues. His enthusiasm for both personal and professional growth makes him a valuable addition to our team.

We are excited to have Abhinav on board and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to Holiday Inn Agra.

New Appointments at Courtyard by Marriott Shillong

Linu K as Assistant Executive Housekeeper,  

Shafique Ahmed as Executive Sous Chef and

Khelbas Meetei as Assistant Training Manager

Shillong :  Courtyard by Marriott Shillong proudly announced significant advancements in its leadership ranks, reflecting a commitment to talent development and fostering growth within the organization.

Linu.K has been appointed as the Assistant Executive Housekeeper at the hotel. With an impressive career spanning 13 years, Linu exemplifies unwavering dedication to exceeding guest expectations. Linu brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. Prior to joining Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, Linu was associated with Evolve Back Resorts, Kabini, Four Points by Sheraton, Mahabalipuram, Sheraton Grand Bangalore, Grand Hyatt Mumbai amongst others. 

In his capacity at Courtyard by Marriott Shillong, Linu will lead the housekeeping team with a keen focus on enhancing guest experience, ensuring meticulous attention to detail, and fostering an environment of unparalleled comfort and Hospitality.

Courtyard Shillong has also appointed Shafique Ahmed as their new Executive Sous Chef. Shafique has 14 plus years of experience, bringing a plethora of culinary expertise to his new role. He has been associated with renowned brands like Accor, Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott. 
As the Executive Sous Chef of the hotel, in addition to expanding his skill set to put experiential and gastronomic food and beverage concepts at the forefront, he will oversee the hotel’s culinary operations, which comprise the hotel’s award-winning restaurants, the banquet kitchen, and in-room dining operations. 

On the other side, Ningombam Khelbas Meetei comes in as the Assistant Training Manager at the hotel, with 12 years of diverse experience, including roles as Duty Manager, Regional Manager, Hospitality Trainer etc. Khelbas brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. 

In his new role, Khelbas will play a key part in shaping the foundation of our associates, helping to enhance the work culture and drive excellence at our hotel. We're excited to see the positive impact he will bring!
Welcome aboard, Linu, Shafique and Khelbas!

Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata appoints Prasanta Nandi as F&B Manager

Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata is pleased to announce the appointment of Prasanta Nandi as the new Food & Beverage Manager. With 14 years of impressive repertoire of knowledge in food and beverage industry, this is his second stint as the F&B Manager. Mr. Nandi brings to the table immaculate grooming standards, etiquettes, and a wealth of expertise in sales and marketing, beverage contracting, and team building.

This dynamic professional has enjoyed an exponential career growth with top tier hospitality brands since completing his Bachelor in Hotel Management from Subhas Bose Institute of Hotel Management, Kolkata. Having previously worked with esteemed brands such as Marriott, Sheraton Grand Bangalore and The Leela Group,

Mr. Nandi is a highly talented and dynamic professional who has garnered widespread acclaim for his exceptional contributions to the hospitality industry.

Throughout his career, Mr. Nandi has managed multiple high-profile restaurants and lounges, including South India’s highest lounge bar, High Ultra Lounge, located in the World Trade Center. Among his many accomplishments, he has organized and conducted numerous high-profile events, including the prestigious Aero India ODC for three consecutive sessions (2019, 2021,2023). In recognition of his exceptional performance, Mr. Nandi was named Manager of the Year in 2017 and holds a Limca Book of Records title for creating the Longest Domino Trail at High Ultra Lounge.

As he steps into his new role at Hyatt Centric Kolkata, Mr. Nandi is set to bring his signature blend of innovation, expertise, and leadership to the property’s food and beverage offerings

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DoubleTree by Hilton Agra appoints Puja Sharma as Rooms Division Manager

Agra :  DoubleTree by Hilton Agra has announced the appointment of Puja Sharma as the Rooms Division Manager. With an expansive career in the hospitality industry spanning over a decade, Puja brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her new role.

In her capacity as Rooms Division Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, Puja will play a pivotal role in overseeing and enhancing the hotel's room operations. Her responsibilities includes ensuring that the Rooms Division meets the brand's standards, addressing guest needs, and focusing on revenue growth to maximise the department's financial performance.

Prior to joining DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, Puja held key positions at renowned hotels, including Novotel Jodhpur, Radisson Blu Gorakhpur, Hyatt Hyderabad, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana amongst others.

Speaking on the appointment, Shyam Kumar, General Manager at the hotel said, “Puja has immense hands-on experience in building strong teams dedicated to deliver exceptional guest experiences. We are certain that having a team leader like her on board will help us grow with better results.” 

In her free time, Puja enjoys playing basketball, badminton, reading magazines, listening to music and watching TV. 

Rucha Ogale appointed as Cluster Assistant Director of Marketing at Marriott Hotels in Surat

Marriott Hotels in Surat is pleased to announce the appointment of Rucha Ogale as the new  Cluster Assistant Director of Marketing. Rucha, a seasoned professional with 11 years of  experience in marketing communications across the hospitality, FMCG, and real estate  sectors, will now spearhead the marketing portfolio for both the Marriott hotels in Surat. 

In her new role, Rucha will be responsible for all marketing activities, including digital  marketing, for the two prestigious properties. Her extensive experience and previous  successful tenure as Cluster Manager of Marketing Communications for both hotels make her  the ideal candidate to lead the marketing team towards achieving greater milestones. 

Amit Mehta, Vice President Operations, added, "Having Rucha re-join us is a significant  advantage. Her deep understanding of our brand and her proven track record make her a key  asset in driving our marketing strategies forward. We are excited about the fresh perspectives  she will bring." 

Outside of her professional life, Rucha enjoys singing and immersing herself in fiction  novels. Her creative pursuits reflect her dynamic personality, which she also brings to her  professional endeavors. 

Marriott Hotels in Surat looks forward to a period of dynamic growth and innovative  marketing under Rucha's leadership

Holiday Inn Mumbai Airport Welcomes New Chief Engineer,Shaikh Ataullah Mohammed Akhtar

Mumbai, September 2024 — Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport announces the  appointment of Shaikh Ataullah Mohammed Akhtar as the new Chief Engineer. With an  extensive career spanning over 25 years, including two decades in the hospitality sector,  Ataullah brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this pivotal role. 

In his new position, Ataullah will oversee all engineering operations at Holiday Inn Mumbai,  ensuring the highest standards of maintenance, safety, and efficiency. His appointment aligns  with the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional service and maintaining a world-class  facility for its guests. 

Ataullah's impressive background includes a successful tenure as the Assistant General  Manager - Technical Operations at M/S SILA Facility Company, where he managed facilities  for Oberoi Eternia and Windsor Grande Residences etc. Prior to this role, he served as the  Director of Engineering at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, where he led Operation and major  CAPEX projects and directed comprehensive renovations. His experience extends to  prestigious hotels such as Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa and Sofitel Mumbai BKC,  showcasing his capability in managing large-scale engineering operations and projects. 

“Shaikh Ataullah Mohammed Akhtar's vast experience and proven track record in engineering  and facilities management make him an excellent addition to our team,” said Subhrajit  Bardhan, General Manager of Holiday Inn Mumbai. “We are confident that his leadership and  technical skills will significantly contribute to our commitment to providing top-notch service  and maintaining our hotel to the highest standards.” 

Ataullah holds a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from Mumbai in 1997 and a Diploma in  Industrial Safety, complemented by a series of specialized training programs in HVAC systems,  fire safety, and energy conservation. His expertise in preventive maintenance, project  management, and staff development will be instrumental in driving the engineering operations  at Holiday Inn Mumbai.

Holiday Inn Mumbai Announces Eshita Desai as New Marketing & Communication Manager

Mumbai,Sept. 2024 - Holiday Inn Mumbai announces the appointment of Eshita  Desai as the new Marketing & Communication Manager. With a rich background in Marketing,  PR, branding and Communications, Eshita is set to enhance the hotel's visibility and strengthen  its brand presence. 

Eshita joins Holiday Inn Mumbai with extensive experience from her recent role as Manager  – Marketing & PR at The Leela Mumbai. In this position, she was instrumental in  conceptualizing and executing marketing strategies, promoting food and beverage outlets,  digital marketing and managing media relations. Her expertise in creating impactful marketing  collateral, organizing promotional activities, and fostering relationships with key marketing  partners has significantly contributed to elevating brand awareness and driving demand. 

In her extensive and impressive career, she has held roles at The LaLiT Group of Hotels &  Resorts, where she was responsible for managing marketing and communications for multiple  properties. Before that, Desai served as the Assistant Manager – PR & Marketing at The Orchid  Mumbai. She has also contributed to major projects such as Vibrant Gujarat at the Federation  of Indian Export Organizations. Her foundational experience with companies like Synergy  Public Relations, FineWinesNMore and Network 18 Media & Investments Ltd as a role of  Senior Marketing & PR Executive has equipped her with a robust understanding of media  management, marketing strategies, PR and Communications. 

“We are delighted to welcome Eshita Desai to our team,” said Subhrajit Bardhan, General  Manager of Holiday Inn Mumbai. “Her extensive experience and innovative approach to  marketing and communications will play a crucial role in advancing our brand and engaging  with our audience in new and dynamic ways.” 

Eshita’s role will involve spearheading marketing & communication initiatives for Holiday Inn  Mumbai overseeing digital, creative design and promotions for the hotel. Eshita’s appointment  is a strategic move to bolster Holiday Inn Mumbai’s marketing efforts and to ensure continued  growth and success in an increasingly competitive market.

About Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport 

Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport is strategically located near International and  domestic airport and close to corporate hubs. This 245 room hotel is located amidst North  Mumbai’s commercial hub and is 1.2 kms from the International and 5 kms from the Domestic  airports. Hotel facilities include a Rooftop infinity pool, Business Centre, an Executive Lounge,  Gymnasium and Spa. For conference and banqueting facilities there is a grand Ballroom which  accommodates 700 guests and 5 smaller meeting rooms equipped with superior technology.  Sky Terrace is an open-air roof top venue for that perfect evening gathering. On offer is a choice  of dining options: Saptami - an all-day dining restaurant featuring live counters, Saptami  Express – offers fresh deli specialties, 72 – a chic lounge bar and 24-hour Room Service. 

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Ravi Shanker as Director - Sales & Marketing (South India)

Mumbai, September 2024: With over seventeen years of experience in hospitality sales, Ravi Shanker is entrusted with the role of Director – Sales & Marketing (South India). Based out of Bengaluru, his responsibilities include leading sales initiatives, developing strategies, driving revenue growth, and overseeing the Sales & Marketing operations of all Fern hotels in South India.

Ravi's impressive track record features key positions at Indo Asia Hotels and Fortune Park Hotels in Bangalore. His extensive expertise and proven success in these roles enable him to effectively enhance the brand’s market presence and financial performance in this region.

Fairfield by Marriott Agra appoints Amit Kumar Mehta as Hotel Manager

Agra :  Fairfield by Marriott Agra has announced the appointment of Amit Kumar Mehta as the Hotel Manager. With a career spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry, Amit brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in hotel operations and is set to lead the new property with his visionary approach and profound industry knowledge

A versatile hotelier and confident individual with a dedication to achieving the highest standards using cross-cultural and excellent communication skills, Amit is known for being a natural team leader, capable of leading diversified medium to large-scale hotel operations and known for his diverse leadership background in food & beverage operations, events & catering, revenue management, and sales and business development.

Before joining Fairfield by Marriott Agra, Amit was associated with Courtyard by Marriott, Bhopal, JW Marriott, Phuket & Marriott Vacation Club, JW Marriott, New Delhi amongst others.

Expressing his enthusiasm about his new role, Amit said, “I am honoured to join Fairfield by Marriott Agra and excited to contribute to its success. My vision is to build a vibrant and dynamic environment where guests get a refreshed experience every time. Together with my team, I aim to establish Fairfield by Marriott Agra as a benchmark for hospitality in the city of love Agra.”

n his free time, he loves exploring uncharted roads and enjoys playing chess.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Pritam Guha as Cluster Director of Sales (Ahmedabad)

Mumbai, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Pritam Guha as the new Cluster Director of Sales in Ahmedabad. In his new role, Mr. Guha will oversee the sales operations of five of the company’s hotels across Gujarat- Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Nani Devati and Ekta Nagar (Kevadia).

With a proven track record in the hospitality industry, Mr. Guha brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to his new position. His primary focus will be on expanding the corporate market, enhancing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) movements, and developing new market segments within Gujarat.

Guha's previous experience includes key positions with leading hospitality groups such as ITC Hotels and Sarovar Hotels. His expertise and strategic vision will contribute greatly to the continued success of the properties in this key region.

Mukesh Kumar Rakshit Appointed as General Manager of Sayaji Kolhapur

Sayaji Hotels Ltd. announces the promotion of Mukesh Kumar Rakshit to the new General Manager of Sayaji Kolhapur. With over 18 years of extensive experience in hotel operations and a stellar track record in the hospitality industry, Mukesh Rakshit is set to bring a new level of excellence to the Kolhapur property.

“I am honored and excited to step into the role of General Manager at Sayaji Kolhapur, my goal is to build upon the strong foundation already in place and further elevate the guest experience and support our dedicated team in achieving our strategic objectives. I look forward to contributing to the continued success and growth of Sayaji Kolhapur.” said Mukesh Kumar Rakshit, General Manager, Sayaji Kolhapur.

Mukesh Rakshit joins Sayaji Kolhapur from his previous role as Director of Operations at the same property, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic acumen. Under his guidance, the hotel underwent significant repositioning in the Kolhapur market, achieving remarkable growth.

Effotel by Sayaji in Vadodara, where he played a crucial role in the renovation and launch of the hotel. His expertise extends to brand building, direct marketing, and strategic sales promotion, making him a well-rounded leader with a keen eye for operational excellence.

Prior to his tenure at Sayaji Hotels Ltd., he held various managerial positions at prestigious hotels such as HHI in Pune and Sayaji Hotels Ltd. in Pune. His experience spans across managing front office operations, enhancing guest satisfaction, and developing high-performing teams in cross-cultural and multilingual environments.

As General Manager, Mukesh Rakshit will focus on further enhancing the guest experience at Sayaji Kolhapur, driving business growth, and fostering a culture of excellence within the team. His strategic approach and commitment to operational efficiency will be pivotal in achieving the hotel's macro organizational goals.

Welcoming Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia as Area Director - Operations, and General Manager – Taj Mahal, New Delhi

New Delhi, August 2024: Taj Mahal, New Delhi is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia as Area Director – Operations and General Manager – Taj Mahal, New Delhi. A seasoned leader in luxury hospitality, Dr. Ahluwalia brings over two decades of invaluable experience to Taj Mahal, New Delhi, further enhancing the prestigious legacy of the Capital’s landmark hospitality destination in its new, re-imagined avatar. In addition to this, Dr. Ahluwalia will be responsible for the operations of Ambassador, New Delhi - IHCL SeleQtions, The Connaught, New Delhi - IHCL SeleQtions, and Soulinaire.

Speaking on his appointment, Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia, Area Director - Operations and General Manager - Taj Mahal, New Delhi said, “I am honoured to take on the role as General Manager of the iconic Taj Mahal, New Delhi - one of the most distinguished addresses of the national capital. I look forward to working with the talented team of highly committed professionals that strive to deliver world-class services, and building upon the hotel's rich legacy, while continuously innovating to exceed the evolving expectations of our esteemed guests with the warmth of Tajness. ”

Dr. Ahluwalia joins the team from his recent position as Area Director - Operations in Goa, where he spearheaded a diverse portfolio of IHCL’s Hotels under its various brands, including the legendary 5-star luxury resorts Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa and Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa.

An industry veteran, Dr. Ahluwalia is widely recognized for his exceptional capabilities in hotel operations and leadership. His impressive career achievements include leading pre-opening teams, implementing best practices across multiple properties, and earning numerous accolades, including the prestigious Trail Blazer of the Year award. Under his strategic leadership, each property delivers exceptional guest experiences while upholding IHCL's brand standards. His responsibilities encompass strategic operations management and ensuring the delivery of exemplary service across all facets of the hospitality experience.

It is Anmol’s strong belief that it is our responsibility to provide differentiated experiences, spearhead sustainable initiatives, ensure synergies and be renowned as a Hotel beyond its highly acclaimed accommodations, services and culinary repertoire.

Taj Mahal, New Delhi looks forward to a new era of excellence under his stewardship.

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences welcomes Mr. Shridhar Nair as the new Senior Vice President and General Manager

Transforming luxury experiences: Shridhar Nair brings three decades of expertise to his new role

Gurugram, August 2024: The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences is delighted to welcome Shridhar Nair in the role of Senior Vice President and General Manager. In his new position, Nair will be based in Gurugram, directly leading The Leela Ambience Gurugram while also overseeing The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, The Leela Mumbai, The Leela Gandhinagar, Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre Complex, and The Imperial Club by The Leela. 

With Nair stepping into his new role, The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences is poised to further enhance its reputation as an iconic luxury property in Delhi NCR. This reimagination underscores the hotel’s commitment to elevating guest experiences, continuously upgrading guest facilities, maintaining top-notch service and continuing its legacy of setting new benchmarks in guest satisfaction.

Having worked with most Leela properties in leadership positions, including as General Manager of the award-winning The Leela Goa, Nair has long been an integral part of the management team. Prior to his current appointment, he served in a pivotal role at The Leela Corporate Office as the group's Senior Vice President of Operations, overseeing and optimizing the performance of multiple properties.

Throughout his career, the visionary has spearheaded major projects, including the F&B repositioning at The Leela Mumbai and the enhancement of The Leela Goa. His exceptional leadership has been recognized with multiple hospitality awards, including Best GM—Luxury from Hotelier India 2014, HOSI 2015, CII 2016, and Business World 2017.

Nair's extensive experience is coupled with his impressive educational background, including a postgraduate diploma in Hotel Management from IHM Trivandrum, a Bachelor of Arts from Mumbai University, and a General Manager's certification from Cornell University, USA.

“I am delighted at the opportunity to work closely with our teams at the iconic Leela Ambience Gurugram & Leela Ambience Convention Hotel to offer a holistic luxury experience to our guests. I am certain The Leela’s core value of Athiti Devo Bhava (guest is god) will resonate in everything we do at our majestic hotels and that we will continue to push our boundaries for exceeding our guests’ expectations from the world’s best brand, which exemplifies true Indian luxury," mentioned Mr. Shridhar Nair. 

As Shridhar Nair takes on this multifaceted role, guests and stakeholders alike can anticipate a continuation of The Leela's legacy of luxury hospitality, enhanced by his visionary leadership and dedication to elevating the guest experience across all touchpoints.