Mumbai: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Maharashtra State Council has announced its new leadership team for the year 2024-25 during its Annual Meeting. Mr. Vishal Vithal Kamat, the Executive Director of Kamat Group, assumes the prestigious role of Chairman, succeeding Dr. K Nandakumar, Chairman & Managing Director of Chemtrols Industries. With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Mr. Kamat, a BSc graduate from IHMCTAN Mumbai, has been groomed under the tutelage of his father, Dr. Vithal Kamat, and leads the Kamat Group's flagship brands, including 'The Orchid,' Asia’s First 5 Star Ecotel Hotels, IRA by Orchid Hotels and 'Fort Jadhavgadh, Maharashtra’s only Fort Heritage Hotel in Pune, among others.

He is the youngest to assume this position and also the first from the hospitality industry to be elevated to this position. This shows the diverse multi-industry learnings and acceptability he has gained over the last many years of being involved with various different roles in CII. In his address, the newly-elected Chairman, Vishal Kamat outlined the vision of CII Maharashtra, aligning it with the overarching goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat@. "In Maharashtra, we envision infrastructure as more than just concrete and steel; it's pathways to opportunity, bridges to connectivity, and avenues for inclusive development, guided by the pillars of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity,” he stated.

Vishal's remarkable journey in the hospitality sector has equipped him with profound insights and expertise, which he is now poised to extend to various facets of industry leadership. His vision transcends boundaries, as he aims to leverage his deep understanding not only in tourism and hospitality but also in areas such as circular economy, education, commerce and finance, and community empowerment. As Chairman, Vishal Kamat is committed to driving collective success and fostering collaboration across sectors.

With an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, Vishal Kamat's appointment heralds a new era of inspiration and guidance within CII Maharashtra. Through his active participation in numerous Summits, Business Forums, and Conclaves, as well as engagement with media platforms, Vishal seeks to inspire excellence and innovation among industry professionals. His dynamic leadership promises to steer CII Maharashtra towards greater heights, serving as a beacon of inspiration for the business community and beyond.