Appointment | The Westin Pune Koregaon Park appoints Raj Kadamuturu as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage

The Westin Pune Koregaon Park appoints Raj Kadamuturu as  Assistant Director of Food & Beverage

Pune, February 2022:

Raj Kadamuturu has been appointed as the Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park. With 17 years of rich and diverse experience, he is a Food & Beverage specialist who started his hospitality journey with the Oberoi Hotels & Resorts in 2004. With International assignments in Africa, Middle East and Indian Ocean with brands like the Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts in Mauritius & The Seychelles. Raffles Praslin Seychelles helped him curate a strong foundation in the Food and Beverage domain.

A few of his recent noteworthy contributions include Two awards from Travel & Leisure and Food Food during his tenure at Park Hyatt – Chennai for The Flying Elephant restaurant, “Manager of the Third Quarter – 2009” at Four Seasons Resort & Golf – Mauritius, an achievement of INR 2 Crores over bar budget with beverage programs, was awarded "Role Model of the Fourth Quarter-2016” at The Taj Palace Hotel – New Delhi

Raj will thus play his role competently by enhancing the overall Food and Beverage operations of The Westin Pune Koregaon Park with his strong management and leadership skills. He will prove to be a great asset to the hotel and help the team with his rich experience. He possesses Swiss Master Hotelier Certification from hotel school, Laussane, Switzerland and proficient IT skills with knowledge across all hospitality platforms.
 

Commenting on his appointment, Raj Kadamuturu, Assistant Director of Food & Beverage, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park says, “Food & Beverage has evolved from mere operations to a specialized experiential function. It is also a great time for Food & Beverage to come to the center of hotel operations with focus on sustainability, seasonal produce, homegrown brands, superfoods and collaborations with local artisans. We hope to cater to experiential F&B journeys based on health and well-being lifestyle for all our guests. I am thrilled to be working alongside with “Team Incredible” in a rapidly growing company. We look forward in delivering genuine experiences for all our guests and associates”  

About The Westin Pune Koregaon Park:

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 center 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.

About Marriott International, Inc:

(NASDAQ: MAR) is the world’s largest hotel company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with nearly 6,000 properties in 120 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts. The company’s 30 leading brands include: Bulgari®, The Ritz-Carlton® and The Ritz-Carlton Reserve®, St. Regis®, W®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, The Luxury Collection®, Marriott Hotels®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Renaissance® Hotels, Sheraton®, Delta Hotels by Marriott SM , Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Tribute Portfolio™, Design Hotels™, Gaylord Hotels®, Courtyard®, Four Points® by Sheraton, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, Residence Inn®, TownePlace Suites®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Aloft®, Element®, Moxy® Hotels, and Protea Hotels by Marriott®. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com and @MarriottIntl.

Appointment | Saurabh Khanna appointed General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Agra

He was earlier the Director of Hotel Openings for South Asia Marriott International

Saurabh Khanna has joined Courtyard by Marriott Agra as General Manager. He was earlier the Director of Hotel Openings, South Asia Marriott International where he spearheaded the opening of some prominent properties across the region for two years. With over 15 years of innovative experience and expertise in a myriad of skills and hospitality brands, he has proven himself to be a consistent winner across various verticals.

Khanna’s journey comes with many milestones including an array of recognitions across leading hospitality brands like Marriott International, IHCL Hotels, and more. He has successfully been a pillar at changing the course of business functioning and sales outputs across organizations. These achievements, and his ingrained value towards result-driven strategies, have helped shape his journey along the way.

Apart from adhering to the traditional hospitality methods that have proven to work, his commitment to encompass innovative technology, diverse marketing alliances, constant innovation and multi-cultural revenue stream generations, have gone a long way in creating successful business entities. He arrives at the Courtyard by Marriott Agra with a vision to sustain the hotel’s existing strong positioning and take the stakes higher. He resonates with the core philosophies of the hotel when it comes to creating memorable guest experiences and connecting with people basis dynamic sales and marketing strategies.  Outside the realm of work, traveling to explore destinations relaxes him and sports is a sense of peace. Over the years, Khanna has realized that work-life balance is the key to a successful hotelier journey with an energized aim to succeed.

Appointment | Absolute Hotel Services India appoint Rajeev Sharma as General Manager of U Rivergate Karjat

Absolute Hotel Services India is pleased to announce the appointment of Rajeev Sharma as General Manager of U Rivergate Karjat

A thorough bred Food & Beverage exponent, Rajeev takes on the role of General Manager U Rivergate Karjat having spent 5 enriching years with Absolute Hotel Services. His self-driven work style got him fast tracked within the company, taking on senior roles within his skill set, his previous stint being Hotel Manager of Eastin Easy Aishwarya Talegaon. 

Being Hotel Management Graduate along with a Master’s in Business Administration, Rajeev has acquired gainful insights in Hotel Operations on a backdrop of over two decades. His career set off with a sizeable tenure  at ITC Hotel Maurya Sheraton & Towers, thereafter  embarking on International assignments in South Africa and Oman. A rounded mix, including Pre-Opening,  gives him the perfect platform to successfully launch the property and provide it with a fitting growth track.      

“An astute follower of Brand and Quality Standards alongwith exposure to our various integrated systems, Rajeev will be able to get U Rivergate Karjat create it’s own identity in the drive-to destination space. The essence of a typical U Brand Resort is to curate delightful experiences for guests and we are fully confident that he will be able create this indelible difference.” as stated by Mr. Shalil Suvarna, VP – Operations & Pre-Opening of Absolute Hotel Services India

About Absolute Hotel Services (AHS)

www.absolutehotelservices.com

AHS is the fastest growing hospitality management/branding company in Asia and Europe with an ever-expanding geographic portfolio of hotels, resorts and serviced residences. Head quartered in Bangkok, Thailand with regional offices in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, India and Europe with more expansions planned, AHS and its brands have resonated with investors and consumers contributing value to all stakeholders.

Covering the luxury to economy segments through its brands U Hotels & Resorts, Eastin Grand Hotels & Resorts, Eastin Hotels, Resorts & Residences and Eastin Easy.  AHS also has the right to manage hotels under Travelodge brand under Travelodge Thailand and Vienna House brand under Vienna House Asia.

Appointment | Rubeena Khan joins Novotel Hyderabad Airport as Marketing and Communications Manager

She will create integrated marketing strategies for the hotel while handling the overall aspects of marketing, communications, PR and content creation to maximize brand visibility

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has appointed Rubeena Khan as the Marketing and Communications Manager. She has over four years of experience in hospitality marketing.

In her new role, she will be creating integrated marketing strategies for the hotel while handling the overall aspects of marketing, communications, public relations, content creation, amongst others to maximize brand visibility.

Khan was previously associated with one of the leading hospitality chains, Marriott International – The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Sheraton Hyderabad, where she has played a critical role in strategizing, branding and creating invigorating marketing campaigns aligned with the hotel’s key goals.

A self-driven and creative professional, Khan loves taking a tactical approach in order to strengthen the brand. In her leisure time, she loves to travel and explore.

Appointment | Mr. Anurag Raha is the new General manager,Crowne Plaza Pune

Crowne Plaza Pune appoints Mr. Anurag Raha as its General manager

The Crowne Plaza Pune Centre is set to add a new dimension to its main management with the appointment of Mr. Anurag Raha as the General Manager of Crowne Plaza Pune. 

Mr. Raha brings more than 20 years of managerial expertise to Crowne Plaza Pune, having previously worked at Taj Group of Hotels, The Grand Laxmi Vilas Palace, Radisson White Sands Resort, The New Kenilworth Hotel, Alila Diwa Goa, Pride Hotel, and Holiday Inn. Mr. Raha has a proven track record of running successful operations that nurture and grow the business while reducing costs and improving profits.

“ I am a firm believer in being productive and upbeat in all circumstances. Crowne Plaza has tremendous potential, and I am confident that with my strong commitment and enthusiasm for hotel management, Crowne Plaza Pune will soar to new heights. Crowne Plaza Pune is recognised for its luxury experience and exceptional service, so it's the perfect place for me to tap into my full potential in creating all-new management styles and procedures for a more efficient business. My major goal is to transform Crowne Plaza Pune from a great luxury hotel to a top cuisine destination in the city. ”  - Mr. Anurag Raha, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Pune City Centre  

"Mr. Raha is a creative, talented, and dedicated individual who is passionate about delivering excellent customer service and building strong connections with customers in order to generate repeat business." He has a track record of successfully managing operations that nurture and expand the company while lowering expenses and increasing earnings. He possesses the ideal mix of experience and passion to maintain Crowne Plaza Pune's excellent name and financial success. " Mr. Shiv Raheja, Crowne Plaza Pune's Board Director. 

Mr. Raha looks forward to bringing the expertise and skills that he has built over the past 20 years to bear on bringing success to the near future of Crowne Plaza Pune City Centre. 

Appointment | Aditi Das joins JW Marriott Kolkata as Assistant Director Human Resources

Aditi Das joins JW Marriott Kolkata as Assistant Director Human Resources

She will manage HR operations, including employee welfare, recruitment and selection, talent potential identification and development, conduct satisfaction and engagement survey, budget and revenue

Aditi Das has joined JW Marriott Kolkata as the Assistant Director of Human Resources. With over 12 years of experience in the industry in end-to-end human resource functions, she has worked across multiple hotels like Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan, ibis Gurgaon, ibis Jaipur, Lebua Hotels and Resorts, Jaipur Marriott Hotel and Trident, Jaipur (Oberoi group of hotels and resorts).

An alumnus of International College for Girls, Jaipur, Das started her career as Assistant to General Manager at Trident, Jaipur (Oberoi group of hotels and resorts) and moved to take over the position of Human Resources Executive at Jaipur Marriott Hotel. After her three-year stint, she took over the role of Assistant Manager – Human Resources at Lebua Hotels and Resorts before joining the ibis Jaipur (AccorHotels Group) team as Assistant Manager – Human Resources.

Having successfully strategized, co-created, and implemented business transformation through people processes to improve business and accelerate business performance, Das was promoted to Talent & Culture Manager – Human Resources at Human Resources, ibis Jaipur.

In 2016 she joined as the Talent and Culture Manager at ibis Gurgaon where she won the award of HR Manager of the year from Hotelier Awards 2017 and 2018 consecutively. She was also part of the winning team of Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan for the JW Marriott Jr. Diversity Excellence Award. She was nominated for Debbie Marriott Harrison TakeCare Award of Excellence (Marriott International Highest recognition, 2019).

After spearheading multiple projects at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan, she was transferred to JW Marriott Chandigarh, as the Human Resources Manager, which was her last stint, before starting her new role at JW Marriott Kolkata.

Aditi has been the driving force behind flawless HR systems implemented and praised for their effectiveness. In her current role at JW Marriott Kolkata, she would manage the daily operations of the Human Resources office with a diverse task list. This would range from Employee Welfare/ Satisfaction, Recruitment, and Selection, Talent Potential Identification and Development, Conduct Satisfaction & Engagement survey, Budget and Revenue responsibilities and many more.

An avid reader and listener of good music, Aditi is an animal lover and enjoys her leisure time by going on long spontaneous trips. She is a self-motivated team player who can work with speed and stretch herself professionally in the pursuit of client satisfaction. Known for her dedication and passion, Aditi strives to focus on maintaining a professional yet friendly relationship with everyone she encounters and enhancing the overall growth of the organisation.

Appointment | Santanu Guha Roy joins Radisson Blu Resort and Spa Karjat as General Manager

He looks forward to lead with team work, determination and dedication to pave way for quality service and to ensure overall guest satisfaction

Santanu Guha Roy has been appointed as the General Manager of Radisson Blu Resort and Spa Karjat. A seasoned hotelier, he completed his graduation from Kolkata University in 1995 and Diploma in Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition from IHMCTAN, Kolkata in 1993.

With a broad spectrum of hospitality experience of close to three decades, he has worked with hospitality brands like The Taj Group of Hotels, Intercontinental Group of Hotels and Carlson Rezidor Group. He has been with the Radisson Hotel Group since 2007.

Under his able leadership, Radisson Blu Resort Alibaug was recognized as the top performer in Net Promoter Score amongst all the Carlson Rezidor Hotels in APAC region in 2015 and 2016 and was also awarded the ‘Best 5 Star Destination Wedding Hotel’. He helped the hotel earn the “Tourism Torch Bearer award” for two consecutive years.

He was then transferred to Radisson Blu Hotel Ranchi in 2017 where he played a key role in flipping the F&B revenue. The hotel was awarded the 5 Star Deluxe Hotel Classification under his leadership in 2021.

In his new position, Santanu looks forward to lead with team work, determination and dedication to pave way for quality service and to ensure overall guest satisfaction.

Appointment | W Marriott Mumbai Sahar Appoints Chef Asif Qureshi, As The Indian Specialty Chef

Mumbai, February 2022: JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, renowned for its gastronomic prowess since its launch in 2015 is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Asif Qureshi, as the Indian Specialty Chef, effective as of February, 2022. With his appointment, Chef Asif will play a key role in leading the hotel’s illustrious Indian kitchen to scale newer culinary heights.

Chef Asif hails from Lucknow and has been showcasing the classical grandeur of Awadhi cuisine and the magic of Nawabi delicacies having worked with some of the leading hospitality chains in India. Chef Asif Qureshi brings with him over 17 years of hospitality experience in curating stellar Indian meals and showcasing age-old recipes from the land of the Nawabs and taking their rich culinary legacy forward. 

In his new role, Chef Asif will showcase his expertise of Indian cuisine, developing and innovating on new food trends, training his team and curating new indigenous menus. He will focus on sourcing quality produce, ingredients, and spices to curate an authentic experience for our guests.  He will also present his specialties in Awadhi cuisine at the hotel.

A coherent hospitality professional with meticulous skills in gastronomy, Chef Asif will ensure that guests have an authentic experience. His management style, attention to detail, and result-oriented approach makes him the perfect choice for this role. 

About JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar offers effortless elegance and sophistication. Just a short drive from Mumbai's international and domestic airports, the luxury hotel makes for an ideal destination for business and stay. Our 5-star hotel accommodation features 588 spacious rooms with pillow-top beds, marble bathrooms and high-speed Wi-Fi, as well as generous work desks and 24-hour room service. Our Hotel’s dining options reflect the city’s rich culture and culinary tradition. Romano’s, JW Café, JW Lounge and JW Baking Co. showcase the gastronomic prowess of the talent we have at JW Sahar.  Our 29,837 sq.ft. of indoor conventional and meeting spaces are a blend of beauty, authentic hospitality and world-class audio visual services. Spa By JW, the first of its kind in Asia Pacific, extends its host of therapies so one can experience holistic wellness. Visit us online on www.JW mumbai.com. For social media updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter on @JWSahar. For more information, follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Google Plus. 

Appointment | Le Meridien Gurgaon promotes Rahul Mahindroo to Front Office Manager

He will be in charge of directing front-office operations, providing quality services to guests, and maintaining service standards for business excellence

Rahul Mahindroo has been promoted as Front Office Manager at Le Meridien Gurgaon. In his new position, he will be in charge of directing front-office operations, providing quality services to guests, and maintaining service standards for business excellence. He has a quick learning curve and the capacity to adapt to changing industry trends, as well as proven problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.

Rahul is a devoted professional with the passion and skill set to succeed in a fast-paced leadership role that improves a company’s capacity to increase customer retention and revenue growth. He has excellent project leadership and personnel management capabilities, as well as a solid understanding of the hospitality business, based on his fourteen years of experience.

He began his career in 2008 at The Grand Hotel New Delhi, followed by stints at Crowne Plaza Today, Gurgaon in 2010, Shangri La Eros Hotel in 2012, and Le Meridien, Gurgaon in 2015.

Appointment | Crowne Plaza Greater Noida appoints Sharad K Upadhyay as General Manager

With over 20 years of experience across a broad spectrum of hospitality functions, he holds specialisation in hotel operations with an avid interest in F&B, sales and marketing

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has appointed Sharad K Upadhyay as the new General Manager. With over 20 years of experience across a broad spectrum of hospitality functions, he holds specialisation in hotel operations with an avid interest in F&B, sales and marketing. He has held various leadership positions and worked with renowned domestic and international hospitality brands across the country and beyond.

In his new role, Upadhyay will spearhead the business operations, overall implementation and business development at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, ensuring its growth and expansion through innovative strategies. He brings with him an extensive array of proficiency and a deep understanding of operational knowledge especially in pre-opening set ups and managing the financial sustainability of hotels.

His impeccable attention to detail and hardworking nature has led to him being awarded with the Outstanding Leadership Award in 2017 and Leadership Recognition Award in 2018 by IHG Group. In January 2021, he was awarded the Best General Manager award by Empower Business Awards 2022 for his leadership contribution towards running a highly successful and profit-making hotel during the pandemic of 2020-21 from the hands of Padma Shree Kalapana Saroj. In his last stint, Upadhyay was the General Manager of Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport. He completed his General Management Program from Cornell University Ithaca, New York.

He began working with IHG Group in the year 2002, which was at the Crowne Plaza North Beijing, PRC and has worked with leading hospitality brands in Nepal, India and Thailand over his tenure with the parent brand. Thereby gaining proficiency in handling various aspects of hotel functions, including Sales and Marketing, Relationship and Management Contract, and Finance.

Appointment | Binayak Tamang appointed executive chef at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center

He will extensively plan the menu, buffets, executing policies, procedures and maintaining quality

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center has recently appointed Binayak Tamang as the Executive Chef. He has over 17 years of experience in the culinary industry.

Chef Tamang will bring his expertise in F&B and culinary operations to his new role and introduce new trends. He has extensive knowledge of Italian, French and Asian cuisines, which can be witnessed in his creative recipes.

Over the years, Chef Tamang has developed his own standard of cuisine with deep commitment to hospitality. From customizing and catering every palate, to understanding the nitty-gritties of various techniques, he expresses his love for food by playing with ingredients from around the world. He excels in the culinary domain and would be responsible for spearheading restaurant operations, kitchen management, banquet event operations and ensuring high quality services to achieve customer satisfaction. He will extensively plan the menu, buffets, executing policies, procedures and maintaining quality.

Chef Tamang holds a bachelor degree in hotel management and has graduated from IHM Bhubaneswar. His last assignment was at The Leela Palace Chennai.

Prior to The Leela Hotels and Resorts, he worked as a chef de cuisine for the signature gourmet award-winning restaurant; Dolce Vita and Italian fine dine restaurant; Melt café at the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. In his previous roles, he has worked at Taj Lands End Mumbai, The Oberoi New Delhi and The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur.

Appointment | Mr. Ravikant Tibrewal, appointed as Director of Finance at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre

Mr. Ravikant Tibrewal, appointed as Director of Finance at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre

Hyderabad 08th February: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre announced the appointment of Mr. Ravikant Tibrewal as Director of Finance for the complex. In his present role, Ravikant will be spearheading the day-to-day financial operations. As a dynamic professional, he brings over 17 years of domain experience in financial planning and analysis, accounting control, budgeting, taxation, and statutory audit.

Prior to joining Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Ravikant has led finance operations for hospitality brands such as Taj Exotica Resorts & Spa Goa, Taj Ambassador New Delhi, Usha Kiran Palace, Gwalior primarily working in the accounts, taxation, Finance Polices, audit, and finance operations.

Speaking on the appointment Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre said “We are thrilled to have Ravikant join our team and spearhead our finance department. He brings significant financial and commercial experience with a clear understanding of the hospitality sector. He will be a valuable addition to the Board as we continue to execute on our sustained profitable growth.”

Ravikant is an alumnus of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and likes to read and travel in his leisure time.

Appointment | Gurmeet Singh Randhawa joins Radisson Golf Resort Pahalgam as its general manager

Randhawa started his career back in 1994 and has worked with brands such as Hyatt, Spree Hotels & Real Estate, Fortune Hotels.

Radisson Golf Resort Pahalgam has announced the appointment of Gurmeet Singh Randhawa as its general manager. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Randhawa aims to create mindful experiences for the guests at the breathtaking resort in Pahalgam. Radisson Golf Resort epitomises a world-class resort that captures the beauty of its pristine setting.

According to Randhawa, “I am excited to be a part of Radisson Golf Resort Pahalgam that aims to offer curated experiences to the avid traveller community. I will strive to establish and position the resort as one of the most coveted resorts in India, setting new benchmarks in Indian hospitality.”

Randhawa started his career back in 1994 and since then had a successful professional journey working with brands such as Hyatt, Spree Hotels & Real Estate, Fortune Hotels. Prior to joining Radisson Golf Resort Pahalgam, he was the general manager for Lemon Tree Lucknow. Randhawa has extensive experience in both pre-opening and operational properties in India.

Appointment | Aloft Bengaluru Cessna appoints key members

The hotel has appointed Haramohan Bora as the new F&B manager, and Vimal Bhat as the director of sales

Bora will be responsible for carrying out overall culinary operations, which includes operational and managerial aspects of the hotel’s F&B endeavours. has an overall experience of over 12 years that includes managing restaurants, banquet operations and events planning. His excellent managerial and leadership skills have proved to be an asset at his previous assignments. Before joining Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park, Bora was working at The Renaissance, Bengaluru as assistant food and beverage manager.

Bhat comes with over 20 years of experience in the sales domain with commendable knowledge and expertise. He will head the sales vertical at the hotel, which entails increasing overall sales for the hotel. He will be responsible for managing sales activities, property’s reactive and proactive sales efforts and executing sale strategies, along with innovative marketing concepts in order to meet business goals.

Appointment | The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal promotes executive chef to director of F&B operations

Alessandro Montedoro has proved his managerial skills at The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has promoted Alessandro Montedoro to director of F&B operations. The hotel says Montedoro proved his managerial and revenue skills in 2021, leading to the new role.

He was executive chef for the past three years, looking after venues such as steakhouse The Forge, Asian restaurant Li Jiang, Italian-themed all-day dining at Giornotte, the lobby lounge Alba, Al Fresco restaurant at the pool, Arabic dining at Mijana, bar Sorso and a healthy café, Dolce.

Montedoro will now manage the annual and seasonal strategies for all of the culinary outlets, including market analysis of the latest trends and forecasts of tactical promotions. His responsibilities will also include maintaining the highest food standards, food costs and revenue.

The hotel’s general manager Christian Hoehn, said: “We are delighted to appoint Alessandro Montedoro to director of food and beverage operations at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal as he brings over 30 years’ experience of leading culinary teams throughout the world and has a proven track record of producing innovative, award-winning dining experiences.

“We know that is important to continually evolve our team and we are confident that Alessandro will thrive in this new role.”

Montedoro added: “As both an admirer and employee of The Ritz-Carlton brand, I am very proud to step into my new role as director of food and beverage operations. I am looking forward to finessing the culinary scene and am grateful that this role enables me to combine my passion for Italian, Chinese and Mediterranean cuisine while growing and empowering my team to deliver the exceptional quality of food and service that The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is known for.”

Appointment | Dennis de Groot is the new General Manager for both Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Grand Hotel d'Angkor in Siem Reap.

Dennis de Groot stands at the helm of the two most storied hotels in the country

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Raffles Hotels & Resorts has confirmed the appointment of Mr Dennis de Groot as Acting General Manager of both Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and its sister hotel Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap.

With more than 15 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, de Groot previously held hotel management positions in the Maldives, Azerbaijan and South Africa, including nearly three years at a private game lodge.

De Groot was recruited by the Accor Group in 2016 to oversee the rebranding of the Jumeirah Dhevanafushi as it transformed into the Raffles Maldives Meradhoo.

He moved to Cambodia in 2018 as Hotel Manager at Raffles Hotel Le Royal and was originally appointed Acting General Manager in January 2021. Under his tenure, the hotel has undergone a meticulous one-year restoration project when each of the 175 rooms and suites at the historical property received a full refurbishment. 

The novation walked a fine line between the need to brighten interiors and integrate a host of mod-cons and the imperative to preserve the heart and soul of the vintage hotel. The hardwood floors have been polished to a squeak, the age-old ceiling fans still whirl, and the old brass rotary telephones continue to ring.

The courtyard remains the centerpiece of the property, its two swimming pools surrounded by tropical gardens of frangipani, and shaded by giant century-old trees.  

Similarly, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has undergone a restorative transformation in the past two years. This classic resort was originally built in the 1920s as a luxurious resting stop en route to the newly discovered ruins of Angkor Wat. 

The new-look properties come at a time when Cambodia is reopening its borders to quarantine-free international arrivals. The country has been widely praised for its handling of the pandemic and its efficient vaccine program.

“Looking ahead, the challenges are clear, not only for Le Royal and Grand Hotel d’Angkor but for the hospitality sector in general,” said de Groot. “However, we have in these ‘Grandes Dames of Southeast Asia’ two much-loved national landmarks where guests expect not just a luxury experience but also a step back into yesteryear.”

ABOUT RAFFLES    

Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

Appointment | Gulzar Singh Dayal appointed as the Executive Chef at Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park

Before joining Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park, Chef Gulzar Singh Dayal workEd with Courtyard by Marriott Bilaspur as the Executive Chef

Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park has welcomed Chef Gulzar Singh Dayal as its newly appointed Executive Chef. A seasoned professional, he has been in the industry for over 19 years.  

Before joining Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park, Chef was working with Courtyard by Marriott Bilaspur as the Executive Chef. He began his career with properties like The Taj Residency, Bangalore; The Park Hotel, Bangalore and also worked across other properties.

Chef has won many accolades and appreciations; one among the many is his participation in Chef of the Year 2017”. He was also an External Examiner for the Indian Armed Forces under “National Skill Testing Certification Course”.

Chef Gulzar’s sheer passion for food and love for cooking took him to some of the striking locations in the country that further flourished his culinary skillset and also got him to meet some of the finest personalities of the country. The exposure and learnings he has over all these years have enabled him to experiment and curate signature dishes that established him as a name to reckon with in the industry.

His ardour for creating delightful food especially in his forte of Continental cuisines and presenting it in a simple, yet authentic style, gained him enduring popularity and with this, the property will also witness him elevate the MBOW and dine-in experience at the hotel.

Chef Gulzar enjoys cooking especially for his son, playing a game of cricket or TT and finds peace in long drives, trekking, bonfire camping and listening to music.

Appointment | EspireTM Hospitality appoints Ms. Neha Rana Dutta as the Chief Human Resources Officer

Currently the owner and operator of six unique hotels, the company recently announced its expansion plans

 New Delhi, Feb 2022: Espire Hospitality, the owning company of Six Senses Fort Barwara and the owner & operator of the mid-market resort chain ‘Country Inn Hotels and Resorts’ announced the appointment of Ms. Neha Rana Dutta as the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Neha is a well-known Human Resource professional in the hospitality industry and has helped achieve business transformation through people processes in her past organizations. In her new role at Espire Hospitality, she will spearhead the human resource function for Six Senses Fort Barwara, steer the full spectrum of the function for Espire Hospitality and will support the expansion plans of the company. The company plans to expand its Country Inn Hotels & Resorts portfolio and introduce a new luxury boutique resort brand in early 2022.

Neha joins Espire Hospitality after 15 years of working association with India’s leading hospitality brands including Leela, Shangri-La, Hilton, Westin and Radisson. Neha’s passion of cultivating human potential, creating a positive workplace culture and impactful strategies for the business success will add great value towards the growth objective of Espire Hospitality.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Akhil Arora, Chief Operating Officer, Espire Hospitality said “I am pleased to welcome Neha to our leadership team, at this crucial time for our company when we are starting the next chapter for Espire Hospitality. Neha is a passionate professional and her contribution will be invaluable for the company’s growth and making it a much stronger brand in coming years.” 

About Espire Hospitality

Espire Hospitality is the owning company of India’s newest luxury resort ‘Six Senses Fort Barwara’, own and operate a mid-market resort chain ‘Country Inn Hotels and Resorts’ and are progressing towards the launch of a new brand which will be a confluence of luxury and top notch hospitality. There are 20 hotels and resorts in the pipeline, due to open in next 2 to 3 years.

Appointment | Nigel Fisher appointed as New General Manager Banyan Tree Krabi

Banyan Tree Krabi Appoints New General Manager

Nigel Fisher will oversee luxury 72-key resort in Thailand

KRABI, Thailand Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts has announced that Mr Nigel Fisher, an Australian national with 37 years’ experience in luxury hotel management across Asia and Australia, has been appointed General Manager of its beachfront resort in Krabi, which opened in October 2020.

After graduating from Switzerland’s prestigious École hôtelière de Lausanne in 1985, Fisher returned to Australia to join Hyatt International Hotels, where he would spend the next 15 years. In the 2000s, he was Resident Manager at the Four Seasons Sydney and at the Great Barrier Reef’s Hayman Island.

He took on the role of General Manager at leading hotels in Malaysia and the Philippines before moving to Banyan Tree in 2015. From his first post at Banyan Tree Huangshan in China, he stepped up as Area GM for Lijiang and Ringha. Fisher oversaw the opening of the Angsana Penang, before being lured across the border to southern Thailand.

“Nigel is a seasoned professional with a passion for Asian culture and a strong command of Asian values,” said Remko Kroesen, the Area General Manager for Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi. “He brings a wealth of experience from some of the world’s top hotels — knowledge which will be instrumental in establishing Banyan Tree Krabi as a leading resort in the region.”

No one doubts that taking the helm of a new 5-star hotel during the time of a global pandemic will present its own set of challenges, added Kroesen. “However, Banyan Tree Krabi is a pristine new resort with the highest standards of health and hygiene management. When this Covid crisis has finally run its course, travellers from all over the world will be thirsty for a tropical paradise, and we want to make sure we have a red carpet rolled out for them,” he said.

Located on secluded Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi is flanked to the rear by a forested national park while facing out towards a sea of karst limestone towers — undoubtedly one of Thailand’s most iconic and enduring images — which are uninhabited and protected as a national marine park. The hotel is tiered into a lush landscape, all of which is dominated by a rollercoaster of mountains.

The resort offers 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa. Each of the rooms faces the sea and the sunset as the property tiers into the hillside.

Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness center, meeting rooms, and - in keeping with Banyan Tree’s wellness branding - a rainforest-themed spa.

Unique highlights include Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant, Saffron, perched high above the bay, alongside a wedding deck, both of which are accessible by electric funicular.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE HOLDINGS LIMITED

Banyan Tree Holdings Limited (“Banyan Tree” or the “Group”) is a leading international operator and developer of premium resorts, hotels, residences and spas, with 47 hotels and resorts, 63 spas, 72 retail galleries, and three golf courses in 24 countries. Each resort typically has between 75 to 300 rooms and commands room rates at the higher end of each property’s particular market.

The Group’s primary business is centered on four brands: the award-winning Banyan Tree and Angsana, as well as newly established Cassia and Dhawa. Banyan Tree also operates the leading integrated resort in Thailand – Laguna Phuket -- through the Group’s subsidiary, Laguna Resorts & Hotels Public Company Limited. Two other integrated resorts – Laguna Bintan in Indonesia and Laguna Lăng Cô in Central Vietnam – complete the status of the Group as the leading operator of integrated resorts in Asia.

As a leading operator of spas in Asia, Banyan Tree’s spas are one of the key features in their resorts and hotels. Its retail arm Banyan Tree Gallery complements and reinforces the branding of the resort, hotel and spa operations.

Since the launch of the first Banyan Tree resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, in 1994, Banyan Tree has received over 2,600 awards and accolades for the resorts, hotels and spas that the Group manages. The Group has also received recognition for its commitment to sustainability for environmental protection and emphasis on corporate social responsibility.

In addition to its currently operating hotels, resorts, spas and golf courses, the Group currently has 21 hotels and resorts under construction, and another 25 under development.

Appointment | W Goa appoints veteran chef Abhijeet Bagwe as its Executive Chef

Abhijeet is geared up to accelerate W Goa’s mission of initiating a worldwide W B&F revolution.

W Goa is set to add a new dimension to its culinary scene with the appointment of veteran chef Abhijeet Bagwe as the Executive Chef of W Goa.

With over fourteen years of strong culinary experience at a number of luxurious hotel brands in India and internationally, including Ritz Carlton, Park Hyatt, Protea By Marriott,
Renaissance Mumbai and Viking Cruises, Abhijeet is geared up to accelerate W Goa’s mission of initiating a worldwide W B&F revolution.

“I enjoy experimenting with standard ingredients to morph them into unique and exciting flavor profiles that surprise guests with every bite. My passion for painting has allowed me
to curate aesthetically appealing dishes with the perfect blend of flavors. W Goa is known for boldly coloring outside the lines of the ordinary, making it the ideal fit for me to explore
my true potential in curating all-­‐new culinary inventions,” adds Chef Abhijeet Bagwe, Executive Chef, W Goa.

“W Goa, strives to consistently deliver authentic and exciting B&F experiences with unmatched local relevance on an unparalleled global scale. As a former Chef at W Goa myself, I see the same drive in Abhijeet to reinvent the global culinary scene to cater to those in search of an epicurean lifestyle,” shares Tanveer Kwatra, General Manager, W Goa.

Chef Abhijeet looks forward to bringing his international expertise and skills that he developed over the past 2 years in Uganda to bring an all-­‐new flavor profile to the Indian market.