Shalvesh Nundlaul is cluster marketing & communications manager at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa and Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah

Shalvesh Nundlaul has been made cluster marketing & communications manager at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa and Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah, just four years into his time at Hilton.

Nundlaul started with the global operator at Hilton Sharjah in 2016 as a marketing coordinator. He was later promoted to marketing executive at Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah in 2019, before landing his latest role.

As the cluster manager, Nundlaul will be handling communications at both hotels, along with their marketing campaigns and social media presence. All marketing and PR plans for the hotels will have to be run by Nundlaul first, while he also handles media visits, reviews, conferences and tours.

Cluster commercial director for the hotels, Ninoslav Vidovic, said, “Shalvesh has been an integral member of the team for a number of years with his continuous commitment, creativity and cost-effective innovative ideas. We have looked many times for marketing manager solutions on the market, but we did not realize that we have a real creative gem in house.

He has shown great work ethic, a strong go-for-it attitude that crossed borders of his department, that contributed great deal to our non-stop business efforts and made Hilton RAK Resort one for the most successful hotels in UAE. These are just a few reasons why Shalvesh deserves this promotion. I look forward to seeing Shalvesh grow as he continues to succeed.”

Vidovic himself only joined the cluster earlier this February, bringing with him two decades of experience.

Vidovic was previously cluster director of sales for Hilton in Prague; in the role he expanded market reach towards South America, Asia and Commonwealth of Independent States countries. He also helped Hilton’s position in North America and helped secure large events in the region. 

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Welcomes Christian Pedersen as Executive Chef

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is delighted to welcome Christian Pedersen as the new Executive Chef of the stunning twin island resort featuring 151 luxury beach and over water villas. Chef Christian brings with him a wealth of international experience, having most recently been Executive Chef at Six Senses Zil Pasyon in Seychelles. Over the years, Christian has held senior roles at some of the world’s leading hotels in different locations ranging from Europe, Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

“Christian brings a refreshing innovation to our culinary offerings and an added dimension to all the 12 award winning restaurants and bars of the resort. His creativity and passion will undoubtedly provide new twists and innovation to our culinary journey,” said Carla Puverel, general manager, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.

A native of Copenhagen, Chef Christian’s impressive background spans over 23 years spent in perfecting his craft and passion for food. He brings a depth of knowledge, flavour and flair to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island kitchens. His cooking style focuses on simplicity combined with wonderful texture, letting the quality of the ingredients shine through. Guests can look forward to simple and expertly executed dishes using classic and innovative techniques mastered over the years. Keeping a focus on sustainability and healthy eating. Christian said, “I’m thrilled to be part of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island family. It’s a very unique and special time to be in the Maldives. I’m excited to share my knowledge and further develop the culinary team’s talent and provide an exceptional dining experience to our guests.”

About Conrad Maldives Rangali Island:

A celebration of design and human spirit, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island expresses an accord of form, function and innovation in driving hospitality trends that has set the benchmark in its style. Rejecting trends in design to create a space that invites and inspires with a distinctive design that sits in perfect harmony with the natural environment. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an inspirational backdrop featuring intuitive service, infinite connections and a distinctive mix of once-in-a-lifetime experiences making it an extraordinary destination for couples and families to discover paradise. Join the conversation, visit Instagram @conrad_maldives, Facebook @conradmaldivesrangaliisland or conradmaldives.com

W Goa appoints Kshitij Goel as the hotel's first 'Beverage Ambassador'

W Goa turns up the party quotient with its first-ever Beverage Ambassador, Kshitij Goel. His forte lies in using organic and healthy ingredients to create world-class cocktails, innovative concoctions and sustainable beverages.

With FUEL at the center of W Goa’s offering, Goel is in charge of curating beverages that will give each guest the energy to look good, feel good, go longer and stay later.

“Detox. Retox. Repeat. My role is to keep the drinks flowing so that the hotel is buzzing 24/7. Afternoon spritzers at WooBar? Post workout detox drink? Evening cocktails at Spice Traders? I’ve got it covered,” says Kshitij Goel, W Goa’s premier Beverage Ambassador.

In a short span of 4 years, Goel has been a part of the pre-opening team of 4 top venues including a member’s only bar at Hyatt Regency Delhi. Having recently moved from Delhi to Goa, Goel is all set to wow W Goa’s guests with the perfect beverage for any mood, occasion and time of day.

Goel’s passion for mixology is taken one step further through his Instagram account @thecocktailtimes where he shares photos and recipes of his latest curations. His love for promoting homegrown businesses resonates with W Goa’s continuous mission of integrating the local community.

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Thomas Abraham joins Hyatt Regency Pune & Residences at their General Manager

Hyatt Regency Pune & Residences has announced the appointment of Thomas Abraham as General Manager, in addition to his role of AVP for Hyatt Hotels, Central India.

Thomas brings 27 years of experience in the hospitality industry and has spent over 13 of those years with Hyatt. He moves to Hyatt Regency Pune from the iconic Park Hyatt Hyderabad, in the same capacity, to guide the hotel to similar stature.

Thomas started his hospitality journey with the Oberoi Hotels, Mumbai as Assistant Banquet Manager soon after he completed his Diploma in Hotel Management in 1992 from the prestigious Les Roches, Switzerland. His impeccable planning, execution skills and achievements are visible throughout his career spanning brands like Marriott International, Taj Group of Hotels, The Leela, AccorHotels and Hyatt Hotels.

Known for his expertise, dedication and commitment, Thomas has played an integral part in bringing stability to the operations, enhancing service and product efficiency and establishing the objectives and policies for some of the flagship Hotels around the country.

Known for his innovative methods and business acumen, Thomas will focus on strengthening the operational strategies of the Hotel, while overseeing all 9 Hyatt properties in Central India. Extremely passionate about Food & Beverages, Thomas will also guide the Hotel towards contemporary Food & Beverage concepts.

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Neerav Dudhwala Appointed Head of the Ascend Hotel Collection brand

Neerav Dudhwala joins Choice Hotels as the head of the Ascend Hotel Collection brand. In this role, he will help elevate the brand's value proposition and further its leadership position as the first and largest soft brand in the industry. Dudhwala will collaborate with the company's marketing and distribution department to improve top line revenue for owners, as well as the franchise development team to attract new investment to the collection. Dudhwala comes to Choice following 19 years with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. During his tenure, he held leadership positions in franchise operations and quality, most recently overseeing AmericInn by Wyndham, and worked closely with internal stakeholders and franchisee advisory groups to drive hotel performance and fuel unit growth. Dudhwala attended Pennsylvania State University.

Nicole Turnhout-Ammerlaan Appointed Vice President Operations – Western Europe At Interstate Hotels & Resorts Europe

Nicole Turnhout-Ammerlaan joins Interstate from IHG, where she worked for seven years as both General Manager of a flagship Crowne Plaza Hotel in Am sterdam and an Area General Manager, following more than a decade in commercial and operational posts at NH Hotels Group in Europe. Nicole is also a board member of the Hotel Leaders' Network advisory board in The Netherlands and an examination, guest lecturer and board member at the prestigious Stenden Hotel School.

In her new role as VP Operations - Western Europe, Nicole will be based at Interstate's Amsterdam office and responsible for leading Interstate's operations across the region.

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Shobhit Sawhney Appointed General Manager At Park Hyatt Hyderabad, India

Shobhit Sawhney has been appointed the new General Manager of Park Hyatt Hyderabad - one of the most luxurious 5-star hotels in the City of Nizams. A seasoned hotelier with a career spanning over 20 enriching years across various brands in India and overseas, Shobhit was earlier handling the role of General Manager at Hyatt Regency Pune.

Possessing invaluable insights across various hotel operations roles, Shobhit graduated from IHM Mumbai and flagged off his career with The Leela Palaces and Resorts. His prior experience with having led the Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa provides him the brand knowledge that makes him an ideal fit for his new role. Being a people oriented person, he lives up to Hyatt's values of bringing the element of fun into work and portrays a refreshing sense of humility, making him a great leader for the team.

Being a people oriented person, he lives up to the Hyatt value of fun at work every day and is a delight to work with. A modest and positive person with an inherent gift of making a difference each day, Shobhit loves to spend time with his family and indulge in a game of tennis.

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh Welcomes Richard Bias as Executive Chef

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh has announced the appointment of seasoned culinary professional Richard Bias as the hotel’s new executive chef.

The British national has worked in some of the world’s top kitchens and hotels and brings more than two decades of culinary experience to Hyatt’s first property in the Cambodian capital. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, the 247-room hotel is scheduled to open its doors in the first quarter of 2021.

Bias will oversee the operations of all five food and beverage outlets, including the hotel’s two main dining venues FiveFive Rooftop Restaurant & Bar and Market Café Restaurant & Lounge, while upholding Hyatt’s commitment to sourcing the most sustainable and seasonal products from Cambodia by working with local farmers, growers and distributors.

“I’m looking forward to showcasing my passion for cooking with fresh, natural and locally produced ingredients to create inspirational dining experiences for our guests,” said Chef Bias who has worked in Cambodia twice before. “Phnom Penh's F&B scene is quickly maturing and through the hotel my goal is to put the city’s culinary offerings on the map.”

Prior to joining Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh, Bias was the executive chef at Amankora in Bhutan for two years.

In 2017, Bias joined the W Bali as Director of Culinary where he oversaw operations at the hotel’s modern grill restaurant, FIRE. Bias’ global culinary journey has seen him work at a number of luxury hotels and resorts across the Middle East and Asia, including The Chedi in Muscat, Atlantis The Palm in Dubai as well as Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor in Siem Reap where he spent two years as executive chef. 

Growing up in a country pub in Marlow on the River Thames, Bias discovered his passion for cooking when he started to help his mother around the kitchen. Bias trained under several Michelin-starred chefs in the UK, including Swiss chef and restaurateur Anton Mosimann and celebrity chef Gary Rhodes before embarking on his international culinary journey in 2005.

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh is committed to ensuring the highest level of health and safety compliance when the hotel officially opens next year. Examples include daily temperature checks for all staff, mandatory face coverings for staff and guests in all indoor public areas of the hotel, socially-distanced seating arrangements in F&B outlets and recreational facilities, contactless check-in and check-out service as well as regularly updated health and safety training protocols for staff. Guests will also be given complimentary personal protective equipment kits containing premium masks, alcohol wipes and other comfort supplies upon arrival.

Sayaji Hotel Indore appoints Dev Thakur as the Director of Food & Beverages

Sayaji Hotel Indore has appointed Dev Thakur as the Director of Food & Beverages. A passionate hospitality professional with 15+ years of experience in world’s finest hospitality brands, he brings to the table, his expertise in fast paced environment and high volume operations with multiple styles of service. Well versed with the food & beverage operations of luxury hotels, destination resorts, upscale & midscale hotels.

Prior to this, he was associated with multinational chains, such as Marriott International, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts Hyatt International, Hilton Hotels and Accor Hotels in India.

Arjun Channa Appointed General Manager At The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas,

An Indian-born Canadian, Channa's career has taken him all over the globe. Channa speaks six languages, allowing him to bridge cultures with ease. After studying hospitality in Neufchatel, Switzerland, he began his career in Algeria, working in Stewarding. Channa then moved to United Arab Emirates, where he worked in various Food & Beverage roles for Starwood, leading him to his first Director of Food & Beverage position at the Great Wall Sheraton in Beijing, China. A few more leadership moves led him back to UAE, to Kenya, and then back to China where he served as the Hotel Manager at the Sheraton Sanya Resort.

Channa took on his first General Manager role at Le Meridien Port Vila Resort & Casino in Vanuatu, followed by another GM assignment at the Sheraton Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa in India. He then served as Task Force General Manager for Starwood's Brand Assurance Team as well as the Acquisition & Development Team, both for South Asia. Arjun then moved his family to the Americas, taking the role of Hotel Manager at the Sheraton Centre Toronto. It was during this time that he gained experience in the Caribbean as the Task Force General Manager at the Westin Aruba Resort & Casino, as well as the W Vieques Resort in Puerto Rico.

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Ashley Lai Appointed General Manager At Sheraton Samui Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand

Ashley Lai

Marriott has appointed Ashley Lai as General Manager of the Sheraton Samui Resort in Thailand.

Ashley, a graduate of the University of Hawaii has worked with Marriott International for over 15 years, initially at the JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.

In December 2013, Ashley transferred to the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa as Resident Manager where she was recognized for her leadership as JW Marriott Rooms Leader of the Year.

Ashley then moved to Siem Reap in Cambodia, her most recent position prior to Samui, to take on the challenge of being General Manager of the first Courtyard by Marriott branded hotel in the country.

Returning to Thailand, Ashley has joined the popular Sheraton Samui Resort as GM.

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Nora Harris Promoted Director of Sales At Courtyard by Marriott St. Peters

Nora Harris

She will focus on maximizing profits while ensuring customer satisfaction for new and existing clientele. Her responsibilities include pursuing corporate and individual consumer bookings, as well as maintaining ongoing communication with both the property's team and guests.

Harris previously served as the hotel's Senior Sales Manager. Prior to that she was the Central Group Sales Manager for four of Midas Hospitality's properties located in Missouri. Harris first began her career as a front desk associate for the company, later serving as a sales coordinator .

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Ajman Saray resort leadership team gets five fresh faces

Ajman Saray, A Luxury Collection Resort in Ajman, has brought on five new professionals to make up part of its leadership team. Covering all aspects of operations, hires have been made in F&B, sales, marketing and front of house.

Shardul Kulkarni, executive chef

Leading the culinary operations of the beachfront destination is Indian national Shardul Kulkarni, bringing 15 years of experience to the kitchen. He will oversee six F&B venues, covering a range of dining experiences and cuisines.

He joins the team after a post at Ritz-Carlton, Dubai where he was the executive sous chef. Kulkarni boasts years of Dubai knowledge, previously working with Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Madinat Jumeirah, The Address Downtown and The Palace Old Town.

The goal is to make the hotel the go-to culinary destination in the Northern Emirates, said the chef.

Anna-Lena Behrendt, assistant director of sales

Behrendt has been climbing the sales ladder at Ajman Saray since 2014, where she started out as the assistant sales manager. Then made sales manager, she now finds herself assistant director of sales, tasked with overseeing all operations in terms of sales.

She said, "I will not only oversee operations in terms of sales but also ensure that the future of our property thrives as we keep solidifying our presence in the UAE, Germany and Russian market as a go-to-stay resort for a luxurious Arabian holiday by the beach."

Mahmoud Elsayed, front office manager

Egyptian national Mahmoud Elsayed has worked with Marriott International, the global operator which owns the Luxury Collection brand, for years. He was front office supervisor at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel and Suites, later becoming assistant night manager at Dubai Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments Al Jaddaf before transferring as night manager to The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, thereafter assuming his most recent assignment in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, Dubai, where he was assistant front office manager.

He will now elevate guest satisfaction at Ajman Saray, making it “the favourite luxury beach resort of Ajman”, he said.

Jeda Al-houdan, food and beverage manager

Jeda Al-houdan, as food and beverage manager, will lead service operations at the hotel’s six F&B venues.

Seema Nandwani, assistant marketing manager

Seema Nandwani is responsible for all the hotel’s marketing, PR and communications. Prior to joining Ajman Saray, she was with The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert and The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach.

In her new capacity, she will establish the property as a go-to destination for beach staycations.

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Andrew Nisbet Appointed General Manager At Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

In his new role, Nisbet will oversee the day-to-day operations and spearhead the growth and development of the property.

Boasting more than two decades of hospitality experience for the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand, he previously served as the cluster general manager at Hilton Hanoi Opera and Hilton Garden Inn Hanoi since 2015.

In 2014, Nisbet was based at Hilton Melbourne on the Park (now Pullman Melbourne On the Park) as general manager. He has also held positions in the areas of F&B, conference & banqueting sales, operations and general management.

Prior to that, Nisbet fast-tracked from the role of director of operations to hotel manager and finally to general manager in 2012 when he led the team at Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa and Kawarau Hotel

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Mandarin Oriental, Doha Debuts Luxury Serviced Apartments

Mandarin Oriental, Doha introduces the ideal solution for extended stays in Qatar: stylishly-appointed Serviced Apartments. Located within the hotel, the Serviced Apartments offer the comforts of home in a residential ambiance, whilst providing access to all hotel amenities and complemented by Mandarin Oriental's intuitive and personalized service. Located in trendy Msheireb Downtown Doha, discover a variety of innovative dining experiences and eclectic cafés, pedestrian friendly streets, and a convenient internal tram network, all just steps from the hotel.

Apartments range from one to four-bedrooms and are ideal for executives or families looking to experience a chic urban environment in Doha's most exciting new neighbourhood. Selected apartments feature a luxurious duplex layout and distinctive features such as an expansive terrace or study.

These bright and spacious apartments include a fully equipped kitchen complete with Gaggenau appliances, washing machine and dishwasher, built-in wardrobe, guest powder room, and bathroom fitted with dual basins, rain shower and stand-alone bath.

Residents of the Serviced Apartments enjoy full use of the hotel's facilities, including the Fitness and Wellness Centre. Guests staying a month or more will receive a host of exclusive benefits including privileged prices at the hotel's restaurants and laundry service, daily housekeeping and a dedicated parking space.

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Samson Mathews joins Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park as Director of Human Resources

Samson Mathews has been appointed as the Director of Human Resources at Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park. Bringing with his 24 years of experience in the service industry, Samson takes on a leadership position to create a positive environment, wherein the whole team is aligned with the goals of the hotel.

As the Director of Human Resource at Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park, Samson will implement his experience in people management, maintaining healthy employee relations, handling employee grievances.

On his appointment, Anand Nair, General Manager Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park, said, “We welcome Samson to our Leadership team at Crowne Plaza Chennai with his rich experience in Human Resources having worked with multiple international hotel brands we believe that he will be a great addition to our team and his experience will add great value to our organization.”

Samson has completed his Master of Business Administration in Human Resources and Bachelor of Economics, from Loyola College, Chennai. His professional journey began as an HR Executive at The Residency Coimbatore a Pre-opening hotel, and he worked almost 10 years in the The Residency Group and opened up new hotels for the group, he worked in various international hospitality brands such as Marriott International, Starwood International, Mahindra Holidays and Sterling Holidays., before taking on his new role at Crowne Plaza Chennai. Samson is passionate in adventure, biking, and all kinds of Sports.

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Subhrajit Bardhan Appointed General Manager At DoubleTree by Hilton Ahmedabad, India

Subhrajit Bardhan has been appointed as the General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Ahmedabad. Bardhan comes with 25 years of work experience in domestic and international markets, with notable expertise in food and beverage, revenue management and operations management. His work achievements indicate him to be an innovative and result-oriented business leader with extensive knowledge in all aspects of the hotel industry.

His last assignment was General Manager at Swissotel Hotels Kolkata. Prior to that he was associated with Park Hyatt Goa as Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms.

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Chef Sabyasachi Dashampatra joined Ambassador Mumbai as Executive Chef.

Chef Sabyasachi Dasmahapatra regards himself as an artistic Cook. His preparations echo

innovation, keeping the authenticity intact in the recipe with diversities of dishes for every

palate. He has acquainted Fiesta and Organic Menu among the food connoisseurs in his early

professional carrier.

Re- discovered and familiarized the almost elapsed British Raj (Colonial) Cuisine to the main

stream culinary platform. He has introduced Churrascaria (Brazilian Barbeque) & Passador

(Meat Waiters) concept to City of Joy (Kolkata) which has been cherished and recognized by Mr. Nandan Bagchi (Food Critic) and Mr. Vir Sanghvi..!

He has contributed in various Food projects with the culinary stalwarts -Chef Tarla Dalal, Chef

Bobby Chin, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor & Chef Vikash Khanna to name few.

He brings 19+ years of opulent culinary proficiency with diverse cuisine expertise.

The Ambassador Grand Mumbai Pleased to Welcome Chef Sabyasachi onboard.

Radhika Dewan joins Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing

Radhika Dewan has been appointed as the Director of Sales & Marketing at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel.

Dewan’s core responsibilities at the hotel will include planning and implementing of the hotel’s sales and marketing strategy, maximizing hotel’s revenues, exploring business opportunities through events, setting annual budgets, forecasting, analyzing revenue reports and strategy amongst others.

Hailing from a background in hospitality with over 13 years of experience spanning across India preceded by her stint in Sri Lanka at Sheraton Colombo, Dewan is a result-oriented and passionate sales professional with a wealth of experience in enhancing sales, marketing and revenue streams. Her portfolio boasts a proven track record of outperforming market-leading competitors through astute planning, account management, market and customer insight, and identification of innovative solutions.

Prior to joining Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, Dewan was associated with Sheraton Colombo Hotel in the capacity of Director of Sales. After completing her degree in Hotel Management, she started her career in Marriott International Inc.at Renaissance Hotel & Convention Centre, Mumbai as a Management trainee in the Executive Development Program. Her career has also seen her through other managerial and directorial roles in some of the leading hospitality brands including JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity, Courtyard by Marriott International Airport, Mumbai among others.

Vijesh Yoganathan Appointed Chapter Leader Singapore At WHTT (Women in Hospitality and Travel-Tech)

With vast experience in travel technology as well as the hospitality side of things, Vijesh has helped hotels maximise their online booking revenues using advanced digital marketing & distribution strategies across Asia-Pacific.

As Head of APAC at Oaky, she now leads the expansion of Oaky in the region, spearheading Sales, Customer Success, Partnerships and all other key activities for the region. An avid traveller, Vijesh loves to discover cool & quirky restaurants in new cities and is a bit of an adrenaline junkie. A master at problem solving and optimising business processes, she is also a champion of diversity and inclusivity in organisations.

Vijesh Yoganathan's appointment to WHTT is further the organisation's mission to increase the success and engagement in the workplace for women and other underrepresented groups, and to enable companies to attract, develop and retain potential diverse talent, nurtured by a powerful community. WHTT believes that by inspiring communities to enter the industry and organizations to leverage and retain in the sector, will create more diverse and inclusive leadership. Vijesh will take WHTT's mission to the next level by opening the first chapter in the Asia-Pacific Region.