Appointment | ITC Kohenur, Hyderabad appointed Shaariq Akhtar as the General Manager

ITC Hotels has appointed Shaariq Akhtar as the General Manager of ITC Kohenur, Hyderabad.

An alumnus of the prestigious ITC Hotel Management Institute and part of the WelcomLegionnaire Programme, Shaariq has over 16 years of hospitality experience. He has worked at ITC Windsor, Bengaluru and at the iconic ITC Grand Chola, Chennai where he served for a decade in various roles. He made award-winning contributions to the hotel's grand opening, launch and establishment of various food and beverage brands, ensuring consistent scale-up of business and superior quality guest experience. 

In his previous assignment as the Resident Manager for ITC Grand Chola in Chennai,

Shariq was known for his commitment towards his guests and his team, his passion for quality hospitality, his aptitude for pioneering food and beverage concepts and his zeal for ensuring consistent talent development. 

In his time off from work, Shaariq enjoys reading, trekking, and traveling, and is an avid follower of football and music. 

Appointment | The Westin Pune appoints Mr. Aashish Kumar Arora as Director of Sales

The Westin Pune appoints Mr. Aashish Kumar Arora as Director of Sales

 Pune, December 2021: The Westin Pune is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Aashish Kumar Arora as Director of Sales, who will be responsible for the hotel's commercial growth, brand reputation, and devising initiatives to boost the hotel's positioning.

A dynamic team leader, Mr. Aashish, in his current role, will be focusing not only on the business recovery of the hotel post the pandemic, but would also work towards the reinforcement of the brand and its core ethos. He will also be working to create a new and sustainable business stream for the hotel.

Mr. Aashish comes with a rich experience, spanning over a decade, where he excelled in hospitality, business development, strategic management and knowledge of various market segments. Proud to have grown within the Marriott Group, from being a team member to managing a team, he has his foundations firmly rooted.

In each of his prior responsibilities, he has made significant contributions to the brand that have resulted in him achieving senior positions at the company, which he well deserves. Throughout, he has been a dynamic, result-oriented, loyal, and seasoned professional to his organization.

Mr. Aashish also has extensive expertise in sales in the hospitality industry. He commenced his hotel career with IHHR Hospitality as a Sales Executive in 2011, and has since moved on to work with Hyatt Hotels, Starwood, and now The Marriott, in the Unit and National Sales verticals. Prior to this, he worked in Sales for CitiFinancial Home Loans, and after a year, he moved on to pursue his post-graduate studies in the United Kingdom.

In addition, his drive to over achieve targets and sincere dedication to his role, has earned him an internal recognition within his current organization as “Leader in the Making 2019”,  awarded during his tenure in The National Sales at Marriott National Sales Organization. Mr. Aashish will thus lead the dynamic team of Proactive sales to continue the legacy of being the preferred destination, with the Upcoming New Banquet venues at The Westin Pune.

Hailing from the IT Hub of Maharashtra, Pune, Mr. Aashish Kumar Arora,  secured his Masters in Business Administration (MBA), from Heriot-Watt University, UK, and started his professional career a decade ago. He loves spending time with his family & friends, reading, and streaming new series on OTT platforms while he is not working.

At Westin, Mr. Aashish will work closely with the leadership team of the hotel to positively impact the overall hotel goals and guest satisfaction. His focus will be to position the hotel as a market leader in the luxury lifestyle segment keeping in mind the evolving market conditions.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Aashish Kumar Arora, Director of Sales at The Westin, Pune said, “I am delighted and honored to be presented the position of Director of Sales at The Westin Pune. Our hotel is scheduled to provide a unique & exciting concept replete with specifically tailored experiences against the backdrop of spectacular vistas and pristine landscape, making it one of the most anticipated premium leisure, wellness, and wedding destinations in Pune. I look forward to driving the Sales team in achieving organizational goals and expanding the firm revenues”.

About The Westin, Pune:

The Westin Pune Koregaon Park is a 5-star haven of wellness and renewal. Experience effortless relaxation in tastefully designed hotel rooms and suites with signature comforts, sleek marble bathrooms and inspiring views. Thrill your senses at five on-site dining options, including a chic bar and nightclub. Refresh in the sparkling waters of our outdoor pool, and exhilarate your body in our well-equipped fitness centre with cardio equipment and free weights. After a full day of work, shopping or sightseeing, invigorate your mind and body with massage, beauty and wellness therapies at our Heavenly Spa by Westin. Replenish your well-being at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park.

Appointment | Licious appoints Prashant Verma as chief revenue officer

Licious has announced the appointment of Prashant Verma as its chief revenue officer. The country’s largest tech-first D2C fresh meats and seafood brand will focus on amplifying growth and profitability as it enters the next phase of evolution.

A seasoned leader for digital-first businesses, Verma brings 15-plus years of rich experience across growth, brand building, strategy, marketing and sales, across diverse sectors including e-commerce, consumer internet, FMCG and financial services. His mandate at Licious entails P&L ownership, category management, brand, product development, platform growth and new city expansion.

Prior to joining Licious, Verma has led marketing and growth at Grofers, where he drove e-commerce adoption and the brand’s growth over four years. He loves building fearless teams that challenge the status quo, break boundaries, and achieve moon-shot goals.

An alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad and NSIT Delhi, Verma has also led brand strategy for Lowe Lintas and Leo Burnett across multiple sectors such as consumer internet (Freecharge), FMCG (Unilever - foods, oral care and desserts) and financial services (Axis Bank). He began his career with ICICI Bank and Avaya.

New Executive Committee of PHA Elected for 2021-22

New  Executive Committee of PHA  Elected for 2021-22

Poona Hoteliers Association, a body representing 60+ Star Hotels of Pune, 11 Hotel Management Institutes, and 10 Hospitality Vendor Members, elects Mr Sharan Shetty as President for 2021-22 at the Annual General Meeting held on 30th September, 2021 at Amanora The Fern Hotel. He continues his 3rd Year as President. 

The Executive Committee (Office Bearers) of the Poona Hoteliers Association 2021-22 is as under :

President of Honour - Mr. Suresh Talera

Immd. Past President - Mr Neerav Panchamia

President - Mr. Sharan Shetty

Vice President - Mr. Amit Sharma

Hon Secretary - Mr. Vikramraj Shetty

Jt Hon. Secretary - Mr Vinay Nair

Hon Treasurer - Mr. Shrinivas Chaphalkar 

Jt. Hon. Treasurer - Mr. Sumit Sharma

Secretary General - Ms. Prapti Deshpande

Members - Mr Suju Krishnan, Ms Mahua Narayan, Mr Biswajit Biswas, Mr Akhil Agarwal, Mr Sumit Kumar 

Past Presidents - Mr Arun Nayar, Mr Sanjay Singh

Patrons - Mr MPS Anand, Mr Satish Bakre 

Note from President - I am thankful to the members for having elected me for the year as their President. The past two years have been very tough for the Hospitality Industry due to the Pandemic situation . The PHA has been in the forefront , engaging local as well and state authorities about a number of issues  such as Industry Status, MSEB charges , waiver for Property Tax, taking on the Novex , IPRS & PPL amongst a host of other issues . The Poona Hoteliers Association has been an active voice in Maharashtra in highlighting and working towards these issues along with the Regional Associations and the government. It also took up the successful recovery of all dues owed by the State Govt to the hotels which were taken for the front line workers during the first wave . We also have many activities planned for members such as Educational Seminars, Training Programmes, Blood Donation Camp, PHAPL 4.0 (Cricket Tournament) and many more for the year.

In Photo - Complete Executive Committee - Sitting Left to right - Mr. Arun Nayar, Mr. MPS (Pali) Anand, Mr. Neerav Panchamia, Mr. Sharan Shetty, Mr. Amit Sharma, Mr. Sanjay Singh, Standing left to right - Mr. Akhil Agarwal, Mr. Vikramraj Shetty, Mr. Biswajit Biswas, Mr. Suju Krishnan, Ms. Prapti Deshpande, Mr. Shrinivas Chaphalkar, Mr. Vinay Nair, Mr. Sumit Sharma. 

Appointment | Yasin Shaikh joins Radisson Resort & Spa Lonavala as Director of Revenue

Radisson Resort & Spa Lonavala announced that Yasin Shaikh will head its revenue division as Director. He has over 10 years of experience and is equipped with specialized skills in quality hospitality service, strategic planning, business intelligence, analytic and maximizing revenue.

Prior to joining Radisson, Shaikh was associated with properties including Ramada Powai Hotel and Convention Centre Mumbai, Movenpick and Fariyas. In his new role, he will be instrumental in driving revenue strategies for the resort.

Appointment | Hyatt Regency Pune Hotel & Residences appoints Karan Thakur as Executive Chef

He moves from Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, in the same capacity, to enhance the culinary experience at the Pune hotel

Hyatt Regency Pune Hotel & Residences has appointed Karan Thakur as Executive Chef. He moves from Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, in the same capacity, to enhance the culinary experience at the Pune hotel.

Thakur started his hospitality journey with the Marriott Hotels, under the HOT program at JW Marriott, Renaissance and MEA in Mumbai soon after he completed his Culinary Arts in 2005 from IHM, Aurangabad. His passion for good food and creating experiential events was evident throughout his career in brands like The Ritz Carlton and The Address Hotels + Resorts as well as Westin, Sheraton, Le Méridien and Four Points.

Thakur has worked in key Indian cities like Mumbai, Gurgaon, Ahmedabad and Chandigarh, in addition to international markets like Dubai, Doha, and Urumqi (China). Known for his drive and a keen eye-for-details, he will focus on strengthening the food strategies of the hotel, while overseeing the launch of various contemporary F&B concepts.

In his spare time, Thakur enjoys discovering new trails as an exploring motorbike rider and traveling.

Appointment | The Westin Chennai Velachery Elevates Venkat Bhuvaneswaran As Director Of Sales-Marketing

THE WESTIN CHENNAI VELACHERY ELEVATES VENKAT BHUVANESWARAN

AS DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Venkat has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He started his career in Food & Beverage operations with the Park group of hotels.  It was in Bangalore when this journey commenced in 2001 and later moved to Chennai as part of the pre-opening team.

The journey then shifted to Hyderabad in 2006 when he joined the Pre-opening team of Accor group at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre in Food & Beverage.  After which he moved to Catering & Event sales at Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) in 2008. This further enabled him to gain exposure in handling international conventions, conferences, and many multi-faceted events at HICC for 03 years.

In 2011, he moved to Hilton Chennai as part of the opening team to lead the Catering sales department and contributed to the success of the property in establishing the event venue in the city, where he was much appreciated for the hotel’s overall revenue growth.

Adding another feather to his career hat, Venkat was quickly absorbed at The Westin Chennai Velachery in 2014 where he joined as Account Director in Corporate Sales and was elevated as Director of Sales in 2018. His contribution towards the success of the hotel has been recognized and has been elevated as Director of Sales & Marketing.

Appointment | Ms. Avani Dedhia appointed as the Associate Director- Marcom & PR, South Asia & Middle East for Absolute Hotel Services India

Ms. Avani Dedhia appointed as the Associate Director- Marcom & PR, South Asia & Middle East for Absolute Hotel Services India

A postgraduate in Marketing & Business Management, Avani has over 13 years of experience in hospitality, luxury, lifestyle, branding, media, publishing, communications, advertising, marketing and public relations.

Both a leader and a team player, has been able to think creatively even within an organizational structure. Avani has a natural flair for networking, brand building, managing short-term launches and long-term brand management. A quick-thinking resource, who can turn a challenging situation into a brand opportunity, she has managed strong professional networks in the press and digital media companies, among social media influencers, marketing circles and opinion makers in India. Her forte is Marketing, PR, Brand Promotions, Events & Associations.

“Avani has a well-rounded and strong Marketing and Communication background. We are confident of utilizing her skills in strengthening our network in the business. Her role will include managing Marcom & PR activities for the group for all our brands.” said Mr. Shalil Suvarna, VP – Operations & Pre-Opening of Absolute Hotel Services India.

Appointment | Vipul Bhosle appointed as Front Office Manager at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel

He has previously worked with properties including Della Luxury Resort Lonavala, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Hyatt Regency Mumbai, and Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa

Vipul Bhosle has been appointed as the Front Office Manager at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel. A result-driven professional, he has over 11 years of experience in hospitality, spearheading front office management.

Having previously worked across a range of prominent hospitality brands, such as Della Luxury Resort Lonavala, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Hyatt Regency Mumbai, and Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa; Bhosle is self-motivated and skilled at multitasking in a fast-paced environment.

At Sheraton Hyderabad, he will be responsible for overseeing of the front office operations, quality services in guest satisfaction while ensuring service standards for business excellence.
Bhosle places a great emphasis on training associates on the job and harnessing their talents. He keenly looks forward to his new role, utilizing his expertise to elevate the property’s renowned reputation to greater heights.

At a personal level, he is passionate about traveling to new places.

Appointment | Ananya Banerjee is the Marketing and Communications Manager of JW Marriott Bengaluru

Banerjee has previously been associated with brands such as Hyatt and IHG and worked on various accounts and brands

JW Marriott Bengaluru has appointed Ananya Banerjee as the Marketing and Communications Manager. She possesses over eight-plus years of experience where she will be spearheading marketing, public relations, digital and social media activities for the hotel.

Banerjee has previously been associated with brands such as Hyatt and IHG and worked on various accounts and brands while working with PR firms such as PR Pundit and Value 360 Communications. In her previous stint, Ananya has a proven track record of increasing social media engagement, conceptualizing and executing IPL marketing, developing marketing campaigns for the new menus, new chefs, and restaurant launches.

In her new role as the Marketing and Communications Manager at JW Marriott Bengaluru, Banerjee will be responsible for elevating and sustaining the hotel’s brand positioning, creating invigorating marketing campaigns aligned with hotel key goals, drive additional revenue through tactical campaigns.

On her appointment, she said, “I am quite excited to be a part of Marriott hotels and the luxuriously warm, JW Marriott Bengaluru where I look forward to forming meaningful connections with the team members as well as guests.”

Appointment | Grand Hyatt Mumbai appoints chef Gianfranco Tuttolani for Celini

The Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel and Residences has brought Gianfranco Tuttolani on board. Hailing from the provincial capital of Chieti, the chef will take the helm at the Italian dining restaurant, Cellini.

Tuttolani is a graduate of G Marchitelli Culinary College, Villa Santa Maria, Italy. The province was once also known for its rich heritage, famous cathedrals, and museums.

With over two decades of experience, Tuttolani aims to bring the flavors of the Abruzzi province to the world through his masterful culinary expertise. Throughout his career, he has been awarded multiple accolades, also earning a Merit Diploma for a recipe released by F.I.C. (Italian Chef Federation) and A.C.V.S. (Villa Santa Maria Chef Association).

He has also been an ambassador on various fronts, from being one in 2011 for traditional cuisine of Abruzzi to the ambassador of Pentole Agnelli professional cookware in 2015. Not only has the chef excelled on a professional front, but has also represented Italy, and Italian cuisine at the 5th Italian Cuisine in the World Forum in Greece.

In his last assignment, Tuttolani was the Italian chef at Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, where he won the title of “Chef of the Year” (while) his restaurant was awarded with the “Best Italian Fine Dining restaurant in the city” accolade at the Times Food and Nightlife Awards 2019.

As he took charge of Celini in Mumbai, he said, “It will be exciting to implement my skills and knowledge, and bring to the people of Mumbai, authentic and traditional flavours from my home country-Italy.”

Appointment | Mohammad Hai joins JW Marriott Mussoorie as its pastry chef

With an experience of more than 14 years, Hai has worked with leading hotel brands in different parts of the world.

A new pastry chef has joined the ranks at JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove & Spa. Mohammad Hai brings with him over 14 years of experience in pastry making and baking, among other culinary departments.

Hai’s experience has taken him around the world, from Dubai at Atlantis The Palm to Renaissance in Kuala Lumpur, from Park Hyatt in Abu Dhabi to the Hyatt Regency in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. He’s held reputed positions at The Zuri White Sands, and Grand Hyatt Goa, and the Hilton Embassy Golf Link in Bengaluru.

His most recent endeavor was at The Meridian Club Relais & Châteaux, a private island resort located in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Inspired by his grandfather’s dedication, hard work, and love for cooking, Hai made it his passion to follow the same path. His main goal is to make every interaction an experience to remember. He’s done it all - from revamping menus to planning fun activities around baking to cracking interesting concepts for tea lounges and so much more. His philosophy hinges on transforming customer feedback into an opportunity to impress even beyond expectations.

Whether it is French pastry or 3D wedding cakes or tempering chocolate, he learns something new with every creation.

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Announces Magdalena Martorell as General Manager

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Announces Magdalena Martorell as General Manager

PHUKET, Thailand  – Magdalena Martorell, a seasoned professional with two decades of hospitality experience in Europe and Asia has taken charge of the new Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, a 30-suite and 70-villa resort due to open in December.

The Spanish-born general manager comes to Meliá Phuket Mai Khao after successfully opening Meliá Shanghai Parkside in China and SOL by Meliá Phu Quoc in Vietnam.

Martorell has worked with Meliá Hotels International for the entirety of her hospitality career, beginning 20 years ago when she was selected to join the leading Spanish hotel group’s internal development program.

She steadily rose through the ranks, working as the operations manager at Tryp Rey Pelayo at Gijón in the north of Spain before becoming the resident manager at Meliá Barcelona. She then became the general manager at Tryp Barcelona Aeropuerto before moving to Asia in 2012 to be the hotel manager at Meliá Bali & The Garden Villas.

At its debut in December, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao will unveil a host of facilities including Mediterranean-inspired accommodations, four dining outlets, a five-treatment-room spa, three swimming pools, a fully-equipped fitness center, kids’ club, ballroom and two multi-function rooms. Of the 70 villas with private plunge pools, 15 “wellness villas” feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, fit ball, yoga mat and more.

“Magdalena has grown with our hotel group to become an exceptional general manager and her rich experience and vast knowledge of our brand place her in excellent stead to launch Meliá Phuket Mai Khao,” said Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia of Meliá Hotels International. 

“As Thailand reopens to the world and embarks on a new chapter, my team and I are excited about Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s debut and what it brings to this beautiful island, including a prime focus on our guests’ inner wellbeing amid a restorative atmosphere and terrific Asian and Mediterranean gastronomy,” Martorell added.

For more information about Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, visit www.melia.com, call +66 76 563 550 or email info@meliaphuketmaikhao.com

Appointment | Niraamaya Wellness Retreats elevates Jayachandran C R to Area Director - Operations

Niraamaya Wellness Retreats elevates Jayachandran C R to Area Director - Operations

Niraamaya Wellness Retreats has announced the elevation of Jayachandran C R from General Manager to Area Director - Operations.

In his new role, he will be spearheading the operations for all the retreats and private residences situated in Kerala and will be working towards the reinforcement of the core ethos of the brand.

Jayachandran with a career span of 20 years specializes in management experience with luxury hotels across India and abroad overseeing the operations of a pre-opening, opening and functional hotels.

He has also worked with brands like Taj, ITC, Leela, Raviz and MGM Grand Australia prior to joining Niraamaya as a General Manager, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters and Beyond, Kumarakom.

Appointment | Samit Kazi appointed as Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing – SAMHI Hotels

Samit Kazi has been appointed as Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing – SAMHI Hotels. With total 18 years of hospitality experience, Samit has worked with prominent brands like Leela, Taj, and Marriott & Accor.

He started his career with Marriott’s flag ship hotel Renaissance Mumbai Hotel and Convention Centre back in 2003. He has a wide-ranging sales experience in markets like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune while handling unit, regional, national and global sales profile. During his decade long tenure at Accor Hotels from 2011 to 2021.

Samit was part of Accor Hotels corporate office managing strategic sales for new openings and revival hotels. He successfully managed to open first Global Sales Office for Accor in Mumbai and was heading the west India region for Domestic and International hotels.

Later he took an operational role at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and was managing hotel operations and was equally involved in spearheading sales and marketing for the unit. His last assignment was with Novotel Kochi Infopark as General Manager with a successful turnaround of hotel performance within 4 months of his joining.

He will be based out of Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel and will work along with Pranay Verdia – Cluster General Manager for SAMHI hotels. With an objective of improving the hotel’s overall commercial performance by significantly increasing market share and positioning individual property as a market leader, he will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of sales and marketing for these hotels.

Appointment | Hyatt Regency Dehradun appoints Harkaran Singh as their General Manager

Hyatt Regency Dehradun (Pre-opening) appoints Harkaran Singh as their General Manager

In his role as the General Manager, he is leading the multi-cultural team of this stunning 263 keys hotel across all disciplines.

Harkaran Singh has been appointed as the General Manager for Hyatt Regency Dehradun (Pre-opening). Nestled amidst picturesque 4.25 acres, adjacent to the serene Malsi Forest and majestic Himalayan range, on the Dehradun-Mussoorie Road in Uttarakhand, Hyatt Regency Dehradun will be the first 5-star hotel in Dehradun and the largest luxury hotel in the state of Uttarakhand.

Harkaran brings with him 15 years of varied experience across Marriott & Hyatt hotels in India. He began his journey with the Hyatt family 12 years back and has worked across Hyatt Pune in 2010 to Hyatt Hyderabad Gachibowli, Hyatt Regency Kolkata and was General Manager at Hyatt Raipur, before taking on his latest role at Hyatt Regency Dehradun.

Passionate about delivering above-and-beyond moments for guests & colleagues, Harkaran is strategically aligned, financially disciplined and result-oriented with a repertoire of exceeding expectations of all stakeholders.  In his role as the General Manager, he is leading the multi-cultural team of this stunning 263 keys hotel across all disciplines.

A passionate hotelier, who believes in delivering memorable experiences at every touchpoint, driven by service excellence, business acumen and the commitment to care, Harkaran enjoys immersive local experiences, theatre, and golf. 

A quote he lives by – “Realize that everything connects to everything else.” —Leonardo da Vinci.

Appointment | Th8 Palm appoints three leaders to its team

Th8 Palm appoints three new leaders to its team following its opening in November 2021. The property, part of sbe, a portfolio of hotels managed by Accor, is now open on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah.

The hotel has brought in Grant Budde as resort manager, Margarita Vaanmonde as executive head chef and Keegan Payne as F&B manager.

Grant Budde has been in the industry for over a decade, the majority of which has been spent in Dubai. Coming from an F&B background, he joined Jumeirah Group in 2009 as an outlet manager, moving up to beverage manager two years later.

He then worked at Kama Resorts as operations manager before returning to Jumeirah.

Budde then moved to Sofitel Dubai Downtown as assistant director of F&B, later moving to Lapita with Marriott as a director of F&B.His most recent role before Th8 was at the QE2 hotel moored in Dubai’s Mina Port.

The8 Palm appoints Margarita Vaamonde

The hotel’s signature F&B offering includes Envy, coffee shop EllaMia and more.

Vaamonde will lead culinary operations at these venues, leveraging her previous experience with the likes of MasterChef, the TV Experience and Catch LA and Dubai.

He said: “I am delighted to be taking the reins at this landmark property which further establishes this boutique hotel’s footmark. As resort manager, I intend to lead by example, and guide the team to position the hotel’s authentic and unconventional ways, assemble the best team possible and empower them to use their talents.”

Appointments | Sheraton Grand Pune and Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar appoints Deepa Chandiramani as Senior Cluster Marketing and Communication Manager

Deepa will oversee the marketing, public relations and social media for both the hotels

Marriott International has announced the appointment of Deepa Chandiramani as the new Senior Cluster Marketing and Communication Manager of Sheraton Grand Pune and Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa. She brings with her over 9 years of experience in the hospitality industry.

Backed with a degree in Business Administration from Chennai, Deepa will oversee the marketing, public relations and social media for both the hotels. Deepa is looking forward to establishing the positioning of the two properties through new and innovative strategies.

Deepa began her career at Courtyard by Marriott, Chennai in the year 2012. During her 5-year tenure apart from managing the hotel’s marketing communications, she was a key task force member at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Courtyard by Marriott Bilaspur and Courtyard by Marriott Raipur. She then went on to join Conrad Pune is 2017 and Novotel Pune Nagar Road in 2019.

Deepa is extremely passionate about fitness and yoga. She also loves to cook and experiment with food. She is a hotelier by profession and a salad-tosser at heart. She enjoys traveling and exploring new places.

Appointments | Mondrian Doha appoints new commercial director Peter Haber

Mondrian Doha in Qatar has brought in a new commercial director. Peter Haber has been with the luxury lifestyle property for four years, first joining as director of sales.

He will be responsible for working to increase footfall and revenues across all aspects of Mondrian Doha. He will also work on forging relevant strategies across pricing, marketing, and public relations for Mondrian Doha. 

In his new role, he looks to increase the hotel’s market share, pushing it into markets such as Saudi, UAE, Bahrain, Australia and the USA. His renewed focus comes as the country’s hospitality sector looks to capitalise on the landmark FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

It is estimated that the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 could add US$20 billion to the national economy, according to officials within the country. That’s equivalent to around 11 percent of Qatar’s GDP for 2019.

On the hospitality side of tourism, the World Cup presents a golden opportunity to welcome international guests and potentially enjoy 28 days of full occupancy. Over the course of a month, more than 1.5 million people are expected to fly into Qatar for the winter event, close to the tourism figures for all of 2019.

Pushing Mondrian Doha’s vision

Vasileios Oikonomopoulos, Mondrian Doha GM, added: “I would like to congratulate Peter on his outstanding performance. I believe he will be a great addition to our commercial team, and I look forward to having him thrive at the property and make further achievements.”

Mikel Ibrahim, regional vice president of sales and marketing, said: “Peter has been part of our Mondrian Doha family for four years, and we are delighted to witness his efforts being acknowledged and rewarded. We are looking forward to his exceptional contribution to achieving Mondrian Doha’s vision in Qatar and beyond”.

Haber added: “I am thrilled to continue on this incredible journey with Mondrian Doha, and to carry on with the success story which started four years back. I look forward to start working relentlessly on enhancing the hotel’s positioning, as well as reaching out to new markets across the globe”.

Appointment | Westin Sohna Resort and Spa appoints Tusch Daroga as GM

In his new capacity, Daroga’s vision is to continue leveraging the reputation of the brand to lead it through its next phase of evolution.

The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa has announced that Tusch Daroga has been brought on board as its new general manager.

A seasoned hospitality professional equipped with over 15 years of diverse multicultural experience working with a myriad of luxury brands across the country in varying capacities, Daroga brings with him a wealth of knowledge, deep expertise in the industry, and great experience in handling the Indian market.

A management graduate from the Merit Swiss Asian School and having learned the finer nuances of hospitality from The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development; he began his career with the Oberoi Group in 2004 and worked with them for over a decade in five of their properties which covered both luxury and premium hotels in the business and resort space across the country. Thereafter he moved to The Leela Group where he held strategic roles with The Leela Palace Udaipur and The Leela Palace New Delhi in his efficacious stint of 3 years. His journey with Marriott International began in 2018 as Hotel Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, where he was pivotal in scaling new heights and creating industry benchmarks in many aspects for the luxury hotel.