Double Tree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad appoints Vikram Rajoria as the new Operations Manager
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Vikram Rajoria
Operations Manager-Double Tree by Hilton Pune
Kaushal Shah has been promoted as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport
/He has over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry
Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport is pleased to announce that Kaushal Shah is taking over as Director of Sales and Marketing.
Kaushal Shah has 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has been working with Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport as a Director of Sales and has over six and a half years of experience with IHG Hotels and Resorts. He has been previously associated with brands like Hilton Hotels Corporation, Carlson Rezidor and LaLit Suri Hospitality Group.
Kaushal is guest focused and believes in going beyond the ordinary for guest experiences.
Abhishek Kumar promoted as Director of Sales at DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square
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In his new stint, he will be responsible for driving room and catering revenue as well as strengthening brand positioning in the market
DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square elevates Abhishek Kumar as Director of Sales. Abhishek brings along years of experience in sales and revenue domain. In his new stint, he will be responsible for driving room and catering revenue as well as strengthening brand positioning in the market. A passionate hotelier with more than 12 years of experience across renowned hospitality brands in Pune and Delhi NCR will now be leading all strategies of sales & revenue for the hotel.
Abhishek possesses excellent interpersonal skills and over the years, he has proved his mettle by delivering outstanding results in overall hotel revenue performance. His extensive expertise in various roles across sales – unit, pre-opening, weddings and MICE segment would contribute to his new role.
General Manager, Jai Chugh said, “Abhishek has an excellent track record in establishing strong business relationships with a host of clients and stakeholders. He is definitely an integral part of our hotel, and I am certain that he will further elevate the business strategies and positioning, and drive revenue performance of the hotel to new heights”.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL MUMBAI APPOINTS SAINATH MORE AS PASTRY CHEF
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(Mumbai, India): With more than ten years of experience in the industry, including a previous
two-year stint at Four Seasons Mumbai, Sainath More returns to this pastry kitchen to add yet
another layer of finesse. Over the years, Chef Sainath has worked with a varied selection of
hotels, including resorts in the Maldives, a boutique hotel in Bahrain and multiple businesses
hotels in Mumbai.
His expertise as a cake artist has earned him great praise and accolades for each assignment.
A Mumbaikar by origin, Sainath unwinds by watching football during his time off from the
kitchen.
He delights in the opportunity to express his creativity using materials such as chocolate and
aspires to curate eye-catching deliciousness to the discerning guests of Four Seasons Mumbai.
JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI JUHU ANNOUNCES THE ELEVATION OF AMRITA AJMERA AS THE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
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Amrita’s intuitive sense of her associate’s needs and focus on the people-first policies make her an ideal candidate to helm the department of Human Resources
Mumbai, October 2022 – The flagship hotel of JW Marriott hotels in India is pleased to announce the promotion of Amrita Ajmera as the new Director of Human Resources. Advancing progressively through responsible positions, Amrita has played a key role as the Assistant Director of Training and Quality at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, and now her profound knowledge, intuitive sense of her associate’s needs, and forward-thinking vision make her an ideal candidate to take forward the core value of Marriott International– Putting People First.
With an illustrious career trajectory spanning over 16 years in the hospitality industry, Amrita brings an unparalleled passion for her work and drive to maintain guest and associate satisfaction. Prior to working with the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, Amrita had an opportunity to learn from her diverse roles and had an experience of being in both the spectrums of training associates and catering to guest needs. This has allowed her to understand that empowered associates are instrumental to delighting guests in a hotel.
Commenting on her promotion, Amrita Ajmera, Director of Human Resources, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, says, “I am proud of the people who work here. I see how beautifully they treat our guests, the communities we serve, and each other. I am grateful for being part of Marriott International and I understand the importance of putting our people first, hence with my tenure at this esteemed hotel, I look forward to continuing building our TakeCare culture and focusing on the heart of our business - our people.”
With her innovative approach and visionary leadership, Amrita Ajmera will primarily be shouldering the responsibility to ensure that the human resources visions are attained with her work on talent management, and leadership development, and create an environment for advancing associate wellbeing.
About JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. Inspired by the principles of mindfulness, JW Marriott is a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in over 30 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com
About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.
Grand Hyatt Amman hires new executive chef
/Hyatt stalwart Micelle Prevedello joins Grand Hyatt Amman
Grand Hyatt Amman has a new executive chef. Micelle Prevedello lands in Jordan having previously spent three years in Saudi Arabia. A long-time Hyatt member, chef Prevedello has traveled the world through the group.
When asked about his new position and life in Jordan, Prevedello replied: “New places, new excitement, new city, new people.”
He will now lead outlets including The Lombard, The Lounge and 32 Degrees North. Italian outlet The Lombard is the signature restaurant of the hotel.
Opened in March of last year, The Lombard in Amman provides classic Milanese cooking, regional Italian dishes and beverages, and a commitment to celebrating Italian culture and traditions.
A 20-year journey to Grand Hyatt Amman
Prevedello is closing in on 20 years of service with Hyatt, first joining in 2003 as a sous chef with Park Hyatt in Canberra in Australia. Staying on for two years, he next worked in Dubai next as sous chef – events at the long-standing Grand Hyatt Dubai. He was promoted to chef de cuisine – banquet kitchen at the Dubai hotel, later joining Hyatt in Baku.
Here, he was executive sous chef from 2008 to 2011, followed by executive chef for both Park Hyatt and Hyatt Regency in the Azerbaijan capital.
He then joined Hyatt Regency in Tanzania as executive chef before heading to Russia as executive chef of Hyatt Regency Ekaterinburg.
He flew to India next as executive chef of Park Hyatt Hyderabad, followed by executive chef in Tanzania again for 11 months.
His most recent role was as executive chef of Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences for three years.
Sayaji Jamnagar appoints Nishant Dudwani as the hotel’s new Director of Operations
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Jamnagar, September 22: Sayaji Jamnagar, is pleased to announce the appointment of Nishant Dudwani as the hotel’s new Director of Operations. Nishant brings with him a rich 14-year industry experience and has proven to be a great asset.
Nishant started his journey in 2008 as a management trainee at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa and since then he has successfully managed to climb up the ladder by being associated with several renowned hospitality brands. His last stint was with Regenta Resort, Belgavi wherein he headed the resort’s overall management and operations as the resort’s General Manager. Prior to that he has been associated with several hospitality brands such as Holiday Inn Express, Gurugram, Radisson BLU Metropolis, Rudrapur, Country Inn & Suites, Goa Candolim, etc.
Nishant says, “I am thrilled to join the team at Sayaji Jamnagar. At Sayaji Jamnagar I will strive hard to leverage all my learnings at the hotel. I will work towards creating an unmatched experience for our guests and contribute towards the overall operations of the hotel.”
At Sayaji Jamnagar, Nishant will be responsible in overlooking the operations of the hotel across all functions and ensuring the highest level of guest satisfaction is delivered.
Nishant holds a B.Sc. in Hospitality & Hotel Administration from IHM Goa and a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration from Sikkim Manipal University, Distance education. He is a firm believer of hard work, perseverance, and dedication but at the same time believes in taking time off to indulge in hobbies that bring about balance in his life and help to succeed in life.
Amarjeet Singh elevated as Director of Marketing, at NHCC & HICC
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Hyderabad, September 2022: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) & Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) announced the elevation of Mr. Amarjeet Singh as the Director of Marketing for the property. In his present role, he will be responsible for strategizing, budgeting, planning, and implementing marketing and communication activities for the property in line with the business requirements.
Amarjeet has a proven track record of 18 years with extensive experience in Marketing and Communication. He has also been nominated as the best Marketing & Communications Manager at the Hospitality India Awards by Hotelier India Magazine. He has worked in the hospitality sales & marketing teams and was actively involved in strategic planning and execution of communication strategy, managing Digital Marketing and social media strategies across channels with proven leadership qualities, relationships, adaptability, and communication skills.
He holds a Diploma in Event management from Event Management Development Institute, Mumbai. He has successfully driven the Marketing, Communication & PR for renowned brands like Park Hyatt- Chennai, Novotel - Mumbai Juhu Beach, besides BNP Paribas Asset Management India Pvt Ltd. He joined Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre as Manager of Marketing & Communications in 2019.
Speaking on the elevation, Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre said “We are extremely delighted to announce the elevation of Mr. Amarjeet Singh as Director of Marketing. He has been a valuable asset to the team driving the marketing and communication strategy for the property through innovative campaigns and enhancing the visibility and repute. He has been instrumental in positioning and promoting the property in the right light and is a catalyst in our development. We are confident that he will strive hard in his new role and further contribute to the property’s growth.”
Pawan Poojari has been appointed Housekeeping Manager at Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai
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Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai International Airport has appointed Pawan Poojari as the Housekeeping Manager for the bustling 205-key up-market business hotel with two vibrant food & beverage outlets and sprawling event spaces, located in the heart of the millennium city. He will play a key role in overlooking the housekeeping operations of the first Fairfield by Marriott hotel across all functions and ensuring the highest levels of guest satisfaction.
With an illustrious career trajectory spanning 10 years of cross-cultural experience in the hospitality industry. Prior to his current role, he was the Housekeeping Manager for The Radisson Mumbai, where he successfully opened and helmed the entire operations of In-house laundry along with optimization of resources. He was also associated with brands like Hilton Mumbai, Hyatt Regency & Sahara Star.
He was also awarded the ‘Best Innovative Ideas 2019’ and ‘Rising Star of the year 2018’ during his time at Hyatt Regency. Pawan holds a Bachelor in Hospitality Studies from the prestigious Mumbai University and has completed his post-graduation from Welingkar Institution.
Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai International Airport under the leadership of VP Ajoy Balakrishna and hotel manager Jenvie Peters consists of seasoned professionals including Javed Akhtar Sayyad -Executive Chef, Ravi Mehta, Front Office Manager, and Dawood Qureshi Head of Sales & Marketing.
Sayaji Rajkot appoints Sachin Sharma as the new General Manager
/Rajkot, September’22: Sayaji Rajkot is pleased to announce the appointment of Sachin Sharma as the new General Manager of the hotel. Sachin bags over 20 years of industry experience and is a business leader with a proven track record of strategy planning, business development, sales and marketing, sales growth, and bringing about transformation in several five-star properties.
Having started his journey in 2000, with perseverance and grit he has made a mark in the industry. As he begins a new chapter at Sayaji Rajkot, Sachin looks forward to bringing in operational excellence, growth and a fresh perspective and energy at the property. Prior to joining Sayaji Rajkot, Sachin’s last stint was at Vennington Court. As the General Manager at Vennington Court, he was responsible for the hotel’s overall management, operations, driving key financial performance, etc. He has also been associated with several other properties such as Hotel Regenta Klassik by Royal Orchid Group of Hotels, James Hotel (Earlier PARK PLAZA) Chandigarh, and Hotel Ramada Plaza, New Delhi, among others.
Commenting on his appointment- “I am delighted to have been granted this opportunity to become the hotel’s General Manager. It goes without saying that I will be working really hard to raise the hotel’s status quo to an even higher level and to achieve higher levels of hospitality our guests would enjoy. I am elated to this start this new chapter in my life and even happier to share this with the team at Sayaji Rajkot.”
Having a rich 20-year career experience and a vast knowledge of the industry, General Manager Sachin Sharma is a great asset to Sayaji Rajkot. The hotel is known for providing guests with a memorable hospitality experience, under Sachin’s mentorship they will continue to further enhance the service and brand value.
Sonia Paul gets promoted to a new role of Cluster Director of Marketing – Hyatt Hotels, West India
/She will overlook the marketing operations for brands - Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Hyatt Centric, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Place and Hyatt Hotel in Mumbai and Pune
Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel and Residences is pleased to announce that Sonia Paul has been promoted to the role of Cluster Director of Marketing, effective September 1, 2022.
A career spanning over 15 years, Sonia’s journey has been diverse. From beginning her career in advertising as an Account Manager in 2005 working for J. Walter Thompson Worldwide followed by Catalyst SMC Pvt. Ltd. Sonia moved spells as she entered into Marketing profile by joining Edenred a part of Accor group. In April 2014, Sonia joined the hospitality industry with Keys Hotel – Berggruen Hotels as General Manager of Marketing where she joined the corporate brand team overlooking the portfolio of Keys Hotels. Sonia joined Foodlink Services India before joining the Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel and Residences family as a Marketing and Communications specialist in 2018. In 2020, she was promoted as Director of Marketing at the hotel.
In September 2022, Sonia recently got promoted to her new role as Cluster Director of Marketing for Hyatt West India where she will overlook the marketing operations for brands – Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Hyatt Centric, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Place and Hyatt Hotel in Mumbai and Pune.
On the promotion, Sonia shares the secret of her success, “my work is my passion; it just stays exciting to everyday explore new opportunities for the brand to offer experiential offerings”
Sonia is a people’s person, loves to catch up with her friends and family during her off time and loves to explores new places.
JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa Appoints A Brigade Of Culinary Masters Stellar leadership for its exceptional culinary team
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Karnataka, September 2022: JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa has now hired three new chefs to lead their culinary team. The Executive Sous Chef for the property is now Chef Sumit Rawat. With expertise that go far and beyond just culinary, Chef Sumit possesses a plethora of skills that he uses to overcome the diverse challenges of this field and go above and beyond to make every meal extraordinary. He has worked with Hyatt Regency Mumbai, and Grand Hyatt Goa, and then moved to Marriott International at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield. Chef Sumit brings over a decade of experience to this new property where he leads the kitchen operations throughout the property, oversees all outlets, and maintains and develops the cuisines and concepts of all the outlets among various other responsibilities.
Chef Sangeet is a pastry chef with expertise in pre-opening hotels and standardizing new pastry kitchens as per the latest technologies and food trends. He has a Strong culinary experience of 14 years with leading brands in the industry. He started his culinary journey at The Oberoi Hotels New Delhi and went on to work in Fairmont Hotel and Convention Center Jaipur, JW Marriott hotel and convention center Pune, Hyatt Regency Hotel Ahmedabad, The Leela Ambience, and Gurugram as a Pastry Chef. He rose to become the senior sous chef at The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Bangalore, Karnataka, and The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Gurugram, India, and now has secured the position of executive pastry chef at JW Marriott. He was a part of the pre-opening team for this 301-rooms property with an Asian restaurant, an all-day dining, an Indian specialty restaurant and a convention center.
East, The Asian kitchen is headed by Indonesian Chef Saiful Agam who has over twenty years of experience behind the wok. He started from humble beginnings as a steward crew and then specialized in Asian cuisine at Niyama Hotel & Resort Maldives. He then worked in Shangri-La Maldives and then became Head Chef of RIN, a Japanese restaurant in Australia. His years of skill and expertise in the Asian specialties will be on display at East with authentic Japanese, Korean and Cantonese cuisine taking modern interpretations. Conversant in English and Indonesian, Chef Saiful is known for his amiable personality. His passion for the culinary arts, an outstanding portfolio of Asian specialties and personable nature make him an extraordinary host at East.
About JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa
JW Marriott Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa is situated within the tranquil Nandi Hills region of Bengaluru, once an ancient hill fortress and the summer retreat of Indian royalty. Within this idyllic setting, the resort aims to fulfil the JW Marriott brand promise to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body and revitalized in spirit. The 301-room resort is nestled in the rolling greens of the 275-acre, award-winning Prestige Golfshire course and luxury residential development, and within a 20-minute drive from Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport. For more details, visit https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/blrnh-jw-marriott-bengaluru-prestige-golfshire-resort-and-spa/
About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in
Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy
Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
The Westin Pune Koregaon Park appoints Uday Thakur as the new Executive Housekeeper
/Pune, September 2022: The Westin Pune Koregaon Park is pleased to appoint Uday Thakur as their new Executive Housekeeper. Uday in his role will be seen controlling the expense areas of the five-star property that fall within the housekeeping department's area of responsibility. His tasks primarily will include coordinating between housekeeping crews to inspect assigned areas to ensure standards are met.
Having completed 20 years of expertise in the housekeeping department at the start of the year, Uday’s early career started at The Imperial, New Delhi as a Housekeeping Associate & Trainee. The following years saw him working for different hotels like Hyatt Hotels Corporation, the Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi, Kempinski Hotel, and the Grand Hyatt, as the Team Leader of Housekeeping, Senior Supervisor Housekeeping, and Asst. Manager Housekeeping, respectively.
In 2013, Uday went on to work for Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts as a full-time Assistant Executive Housekeeper and has only moved forward from there. Later on, he worked for Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC, Marriott Hotels, and Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts as an Executive Housekeeper.
Uday as an Executive housekeeper for The Westin Pune Koregaon Park will also be seen managing many priorities and demands while solving problems, supporting the staff, as well as performing the duties of a housekeeper when required. He will be responsible for all functions such as operations & admin for housekeeping, interviewing, hiring, orientation, performance appraisals, and dismissals in coordination with the Personnel Department to ensure appropriate staffing and productivity.
Commenting on his appointment, Uday Thakur, Executive Housekeeper, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park, said, “I am really glad to be a part of The Westin family, and I really hope to take the hotel to newer and better heights with utmost contribution from my end. I really look forward to giving my 100% to the team and I hope to not only lead the team with examples but also learn a lot more from my colleagues in the process.”
Uday is a graduate and a postgraduate with a Master’s of Business Administration from Subharti University. A few of his past colleagues speak of Uday as a very professional yet friendly person who’s calm, composed, and well experienced in the Housekeeping department. They also describe him as an employee with an eye for detail and as a result-oriented person who exceeds and strives for the highest of standards.
About The Westin Pune Koregaon Park:
Situated amid celebrated attractions, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park is a luxurious 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 the on-site dining options, including a chic bar and nightclub. Enjoy a coveted location in Koregaon Park near Pune Airport, Magarpatta, Hadapsar and many industrial parks. Work well in 45,000 square feet of sophisticated, flexible hotel event space, enhanced by modern AV equipment, on-site event planning and custom catering services. 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:
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.
The Reverie Saigon Introduces New Executive Chef Marcelo Geraldini
/HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam (Sept, 2022) — The Reverie Saigon has appointed Marcelo Geraldini as its new executive chef, a move that’s set to bolster the landmark five-star hotel’s emergence as a world-class dining destination.
The Brazilian-born chef oversees one of Vietnam’s most dynamic hotel culinary programs, including the recently launched Italian fine dining restaurant Da Vittorio Saigon. The family-run Da Vittorio group based in Italy boasts eight Michelin stars globally across four other restaurants in Brusaporto (Italy), St. Moritz (Switzerland), Paris (France), and Shanghai (China).
Geraldini, whose background includes Italian and German roots, is a graduate of Westminster Kingsway College, one of the U.K.’s most renowned and prestigious hospitality schools. He later gained experience in the one-Michelin-star restaurant, The Hardwood Arms in London, and other highly respected restaurants in England, as well as in his hometown of Sao Paulo.
The chef arrived in Vietnam in 2016 and played an active role in several restaurant pre-openings and renovation projects for WMC Group, the management company of The Reverie Saigon. Geraldini joined The Reverie Saigon as executive sous chef in 2017.
“Perhaps more than anything else, Chef Marcelo brings a unique passion to our culinary operation at The Reverie Saigon. His love and appreciation for fine cuisine is strongly complemented by his warm, personalized service approach and overall commitment to excellence,” said James Young, Vice President of WMC Group.
Geraldini says he takes a hands-on approach to managing the hotel’s multiple kitchens, beginning with sourcing the highest-quality, freshest ingredients all the way to preparation, cooking and serving the final dish to guests.
“To create a dining experience that is above and beyond a guest’s expectations—that is what I consistently strive for,” Geraldini said.
The Reverie Saigon is home to a number of acclaimed culinary outlets, including The Royal Pavilion (celebrated for its Chinese dim sum), Café Cardinal (one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive all-day dining venues, with French influences), The Long @ Times Square (a casual sidewalk-style trattoria) and The Reverie Boutique (sweets, treats, coffee and more).
Booking.com appoints Santosh Kumar as Country Manager for India,Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia
/Wednesday, September 2022, India: Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel companies, has appointed Santosh Kumar as Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia. He succeeds Ritu Mehrotra, who earlier served in the same role.
With full responsibility for the leadership and development of Booking.com’s business in India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia, Santosh plays a critical role in driving growth, strategy and operations across one of the most dynamic and diverse regions in the Asia Pacific. Santosh is a seasoned leader, who brings over a decade of leadership experience from the travel and hospitality industry.
As the travel industry navigates its next phase of recovery and looks at new growth prospects, Santosh will spearhead efforts to shape the future of travel in the region with a strong focus on supporting our partners in rebuilding their businesses, while ensuring the company continues to deliver the best value to our customers.
“Santosh joins us as an entrepreneurial and strategic leader with an in-depth understanding of the travel and technology industry. With over 15 years of experience in managing multicultural teams, Santosh will spearhead the region with a strong focus on supporting our partners in rebuilding their businesses, while ensuring the company continues to deliver the best value to our customers.” said Nuno Guerreiro, Regional Director, South APAC & Chains.
Previously, Santosh was Managing Director of the Indian subcontinent at HRS Group, a global SaaS-based corporate travel accommodation technology provider. He has also worked at American Express Global Business Travel and has extensive consulting experience working with Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Deloitte, Collabera and Diamond Management and Technology Consultants in USA and India.
“I am honoured and excited to lead the Booking.com business in India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia. Booking.com’s mission is to make it easy for everyone to experience the world and with us slowly embracing the new era of travel, I am looking forward to working closely with our accommodation partners to ensure that we offer travellers the most convenient, seamless and unforgettable experiences in travel.” Santosh Kumar said
ABOUT BOOKING.COM
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world whenever it’s safe to do so again. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com seamlessly connects millions of travellers with memorable experiences, a range of transportation options and incredible places to stay - from homes to hotels and much more. As one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes, Booking.com enables properties worldwide to reach a global audience and grow their businesses. Booking.com is available in 44 languages and offers more than 28 million total reported accommodation listings, including more than 6.5 million listings of homes, apartments and other unique places to stay. No matter where you want to go or what you want to do, Booking.com makes it easy and backs it all up with 24/7 customer support.
Alma Resort Promotes Talented Homegrown Hospitality Professionals
/CAM RANH, Vietnam September 2022 – Alma Resort has appointed two directors of food and beverage who bring a total of almost three decades of rich industry experience to the executive team of the 30-hectare beachfront property.
Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler named Doan Pham Anh Tu as director of F&B (outlets operation) and Nguyen Huy Cuong as director of F&B (MICE and F&B sales) at the resort overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula. Both Tu and Cuong had been assistant F&B directors at Alma before their promotions.
After graduating from Ho Chi Minh City’s University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Nha Trang branch) with a bachelor’s degree in English linguistics and literature, Tu started his 15-year career as a waiter at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in 2007. He became the restaurant manager of Nha Trang’s Green Apple restaurant and Red Apple bar before taking on a role in marketing and logistics at a Vietnamese metal container manufacturer.
Tu then climbed the ranks at Mia Resort Nha Trang, first as a restaurant captain, then a restaurant supervisor, assistant restaurant manager, restaurant manager and assistant F&B manager before joining Alma in 2019 as assistant F&B director.
Describing himself as “responsible, highly resourceful and reliable”, Tu said his strengths include people management, staff development, targets and budgets, menu planning, and function management.
Born and bred in nearby Nha Trang, Cuong studied English for business and tourism at Nha Trang Teachers’ Training College before starting his 12-year hospitality career as a waiter at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. He then became a guest relations officer at Six Senses Con Dao before returning to Six Senses Ninh Van Bay as an F&B supervisor.
He then became a restaurant manager at Vinpearl Land Nha Trang, assistant manager at InterContinental Nha Trang Costa Seafood restaurant, assistant outlet manager at Duyen Ha Resort Cam Ranh and outlet manager at The Anam before joining Alma as outlet manager in July 2019. Cuong was then promoted to assistant F&B manager and later assistant F&B director.
Cuong said he was “dedicated, hard-working and open-minded” and looking forward to learning more in his new role overseeing the resort’s MICE and F&B sales.
Culinary Team At Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Celebrates Two Promotions
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(Mumbai, India): The reputed culinary team of Four Seasons Mumbai celebrates Chef Shehrezad Kapadia and Chef Abhishek Gurav by announcing their well-deserved promotions. Infusing the brand ethos into everything that they do, both chefs showcase exemplary talent and dedication to their craft, to their guests and to the hotel.
Chef Shehrezad Kapadia has been promoted to Executive Sous Chef after having dedicated her career of more than 12 years to this property. This illustrious career has included successful short-term cross training and project-led deployments to international Four Seasons properties such as those in Chiang Mai, Milan and most recently Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. Chef Shehrezad has also worked alongside internationally renowned chefs such as Chef Vineet Bhatia, Manish Mehrotra, Himanshu Saini, Massimo Bottura and Mike Bagale while working on banquet events and pop-ups at Four Seasons Mumbai over the years.
A member of the pre-opening team of Four Seasons Mumbai, Chef Abhishek Gurav has been promoted to the role of Chef de Cuisine for the property. In his last 14 years of experience, Chef Abhishek has been instrumental in setting up kitchens of AER, the award-winning rooftop bar & lounge, along with the Thai kitchen that is one of the core offerings of San:Qi, the critically acclaimed Pan-Asian Speciality restaurant. Trained as a certified nutritionist, he takes great pride in catering to the needs of a discerning Four Seasons guest.
With this duo setting a solid foundation, Four Seasons Mumbai is sure to further cement its position as a market leader in the culinary world.
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach appoints Rahul Bhale as the Executive Chef
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Visakhapatnam, September 2022: Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach appointed Rahul
Bhale as the Executive Chef. Bringing on the table his expertise and extensive knowledge of
global culinary trends, Rahul’s vision to lead Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach will help
create an unparalleled dining experience for the patrons. Chef Rahul is passionate about
curating an experience that nourishes the soul.
In his new role, Rahul will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s overall culinary operations
which include hiring, training, supervising culinary staff, curating menus, layout for the
price, budgeting, performance assessment, and cost control with effective output. Chef Rahul
shows immense credibility and will be shouldering the responsibility to ensure all health & safety and service standards are being enforced.
On Rahul Bhale’s appointment, Ravi Rai, Cluster General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam
Varun Beach, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, and The Bheemili Resort expressed, “It’s a pleasure to have Rahul Bhale join our team as the Executive Chef. We believe with his extensive experience he will further elevate the dining experiences for our patrons along with his strong foundation and seasoned experience in culinary operations as well as avant-garde gastronomy which will be a good addition to our F & B department”
As a Chef with a passion for serving the gastronomic industry by presenting innovative dishes with a distinctive twist, Rahul brings a wealth of experience to this new role, having worked
in some of the best properties for an impressive 13-year tenure across India & UK such as
Hilton Hotels, UK, Ibis Nashik, Ibis Styles Goa Calangute Resort, Goa, Ibis Novotel Techpark,
Bangalore, Novotel Chennai Sipcot, Chennai and many more. Rahul has earned many
accolades for his merit, he was Flagged as one of the highest online revenue generations
within Accor pan India in the year 2021 and aims to further facilitate the hotel’s promise of
delivering unique and unparalleled hospitality for guests at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun
Beach.
Kumar Raipancholia has been appointed as AVP Sales and Distribution for SaffronStays
/Kumar comes with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry and is tasked with driving occupancy growth and numbers for the 7-year-old start-up that currently has 250+ homes under the banner
As supply for SaffronStays, India’s foremost and exclusive collection of fully staffed and serviced private vacation homes grows, the brand has roped in Kumar Raipancholia to lead demand as AVP, Sales and Distribution. This comes shortly after opening doors in vital new markets like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kumar comes with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry and is tasked with driving occupancy growth and numbers for the 7-year-old start-up that currently has 250+ homes under the banner.
Born and raised in Mumbai, Kumar is an alumnus of Bandra’s MET Institute of Management. In 2012 he had his first brush with the MICE and FIT segments at Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotels and Residences He then spearheaded the same segments at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa before moving to Alila Diwa Goa – A Hyatt Brand as Associate Director, Sales. With over 10 years of experience in the MICE-Weddings, FIT and Travel Trade experience of Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi NCR markets, Kumar comes armed with immense knowledge in the conventional accommodation space.
Says Devendra Parulekar, Founder, SaffronStays, “Besides setting ourselves on a path of profitability, a critical objective for 2022 that we’d set for ourselves was to professionalise the company. From a start-up that was a rank outsider to the industry, to causing the industry veterans to be a part of the category, SaffronStays has come a long way. It was time to induct professional talent from the hotel industry to take us to the next level. This is why we sought out Kumar Raipancholia as Chief of Sales and Distribution to help us navigate the complex world of hospitality sales. He will build and cultivate distribution channels including travel agents and OTAs, and leading website sales that has been the largest contributor to our sales.”
Says Kumar Raipancholia, “Ever since Airbnb opened its doors, it has opened travellers’ minds to the possibility of staying in a home, instead of a hotel. After the pandemic-induced lockdowns, we have seen a shift in the minds of the guests who are now turning to Homes Stays as an option while looking for their holiday. Private villas are aspirational getaway options; to holiday in and to own. Guests who stay in these estates always go back with a feeling of owning a private villa, and then wanting to partner with SaffronStays to monetise the asset after they’ve spent a few years enjoying it.”
SaffronStays has been recognised as one of India’s Top 100 Luxury Brands in Luxebook’s Most Powerful 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 and featured in MoneyControl’s 75 Brands That Changed The Way We Live list. It was the only Curated Network of Private Vacation Homes to be featured on any list. Moreover, 1 in every 12 villas from Conde Nast Traveler’s 50 Top Villas In India, is an exclusively managed estate by SaffronStays.
“I am here to build SaffronStays as a brand eponymous with quality standards, experiences and brand values in the premium and budget vacation rental space. This space is growing incredibly quickly and in another 5-7 years will be the default choice for Indians and inbound international guests as well. Today’s consumer wants luxury seeped in privacy, experiences and hassle-free service; and villas offer just that,”
Where a luxury hotel room costs ~₹25,000 for 2 pax, SaffronStays offers a base-category villa for 6 pax along with a personal home chef, a pool and complete service. “I am here to take this brand to every corner of India and spread its wings across international waters. SaffronStays should be the first brand that a guest equates to a holiday getaway.”
When he is not working, Kumar, a self-proclaimed auto enthusiast, is researching the latest supercars in the market or planning a trip from his bucket list, with Japan currently topping that.
Sumit Kumar Sharma has been appointed as the General Manager at Renest Haridwar
/He will be responsible for day-to-day operations and management of the hotel, while leading the teams to drive revenues and enhance the brand value
A Hotel Management graduate from IHM Bangalore, Sumit Kumar Sharma has been in the industry for over 2 decades. He brings with him an astute sense of business and markets. His hospitality journey began with Ananda in the Himalayas. He then moved to Novotel Convention Centre Hyderabad and has also worked with The Grand, New Delhi.
He was then appointed as a Resort Manager in Suryavilas. Sharma has a proven record of success in the preopening assignment at Sarovar Portico in Dehradun.
In his role as a General manager at Renest Haridwar, he will be responsible for day-to-day operations and management of the hotel, while leading the teams to drive revenues and enhance the brand value. In his personal time, he loves to travel, and binge eat.
