The St. Regis Mumbai appoints Varun Chhibber as General Manager

The St. Regis Mumbai is delighted to announce the appointment of Varun Chhibber to lead ‘The Best Address’ as General Manager.

Varun brings with him over 20 years of luxury experience in the hospitality industry and will now helm The St. Regis Mumbai, the most iconic hotels in Marriott International’s myriad portfolio in India.

An alumni of The Oberoi Centre of Learning & Development, he has led multiple luxury hotels as General Manager. His early education was a blend of formal schooling and extensive travel, resulting in diverse cultural exposure and practical experiences which he brings each day to work. He enhanced his hotel education with a major in Economics as it was a subject of special interest to him. Having worked with the Oberoi and Leela group in the past, Varun’s expertise in Luxury is extremely strong and well defined.

His early years of experience allowed him to develop award winning concepts specially in Food and Beverage and drive revenue and reputation. Varun is known for his people centric leadership style which embodies his deep rooted beliefs in the infinite power of team brilliance and exponential growth.

At The St. Regis Mumbai, Varun will lead the dynamic luxury team to sustain the hotel’s positioning as one of the most awarded hotels and as the preferred destination for the social elite.  He will focus on steering the team to drive revenue and maintain the property’s reputation of having the highest turnover in South Asia while ensuring guest voice scores remain a priority for The St. Regis Mumbai.

Varun is married to Nupur who also has her roots in the hospitality industry, and they have a teenage son who is looking forward to returning to Mumbai where he had his primary education. Varun’s competitive spirit and love for sport and innovation drives him each day to collaborate and synergize.

Saahil Sheokand is now the Director of Sales and Marketing at Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar

Saahil comes with a varied range of experience and an innate understanding of the hospitality industry, nationally & in global markets Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar is pleased to announce the appointment of Saahil Sheokand as Director of Sales & Marketing; he will oversee Sales, Events, Revenue and Marketing for the hotel.

Saahil brings with him a wealth of experience in the hospitality arena, he has been associated with some of the leading properties like Hyatt Regency Delhi, Hyatt Regency Gurgaon; Hyatt Place Gurgaon, Dusit Hotels & Resorts and Corus Hotel Hyde Park, London (United Kingdom) to name a few. In each of his previous roles, he contributed immensely towards creating milestone achievements for respective organizations.

Prior to joining Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar, he was associated with Hyatt Regency Gurgaon as Director of Sales.

Talking about his appointment, Saahil stated “I am excited to embark on this new chapter at Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar and immensely proud to be part of Radisson Family”.

Saahil is a people’s person; he is an inquisitive traveller who likes to discover destinations.

JW Marriott Bengaluru appoints Kiran Kumar as the new Chief Engineer

He is well-known for being an expert in pre-opening, coordinating with project teams and maintaining documents for handing over

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru would like to announce the appointment of Kiran Kumar as the new Chief Engineer. With over 18 years of vast experience, Kiran will be seen implementing policies, standards, and procedures pertaining to engineering and technical work across all departments. 

He is a leader with strong technical skills, excellent leadership qualities equipped to handle energy conservation orientation training. He is well-known for being an expert in pre-opening, coordinating with project teams, and maintaining documents for handing over. As a seasoned engineer, Kiran is known to be a solution-oriented person. 

He possesses immense knowledge in the field and has an excellent record of ensuring the smooth running of the daily operations of the hotel. From supervising the hotel staff to maintaining a record of timely completion of maintenance requests, to ensuring local government guidelines and regulations are followed strictly, Kiran has a track record of managing all with a flourish.

Grand Mercure Hotel & Residences and ibis Styles Dubai Airport appoints Fadi ELIAS as new Cluster Director of Revenue

This brand new ACCOR complex celebrating the UAE heritage is pleased to  announce the appointment of Fadi ELIAS as Cluster Director of Revenue. 

Elias brings 14 years of revenue management experience to the hospitality team,  making him a valuable asset to the hotel and group. Using his customer-centric and  data-driven expertise, he will play an integral role in leading, developing and  supervising the revenue management and distribution strategy of the 712 keys  complex. 

Prior to this role, he held the cluster director of revenue’s position for Rose Rayhaan  by Rotana, Towers Rotana and Villa Rotana where he achieved the highest RevPar  Ranking with RGI of 175 and introduced effective pricing and yield management strategies.  

Elias has a bachelor in Hospitality Management from the International Institute of  Dummar of Syria. 

On his appointment, Elias said, “I am delighted to be part of such a great team. The  property has continually raised the bar for offering guests luxurious yet affordable  experiences and I look forward to working with the team to build on the reputation  that the ACCOR Group has created for itself around the world.” 

Tyrone Lodder, Cluster General Manager at Grand Mercure & Ibis Styles Dubai  Airport, said, “We are glad to welcome Fadi Elias to the team and confident in his broad skillset. Fadi’s passion for optimizing revenue will shine as he settles into the  new role, ensuring to maintain the properties in "pole position," within its compset. 

INDIA’S FIRST THE ST. REGIS GOA RESORT APPOINTS SATISH KUMAR AS GENERAL MANAGER

The St. Regis Goa Resort - the first resort and the second St. Regis branded property in India – appoints Mr. Satish Kumar as General Manager. A well-recognized leader with over two decades of outstanding experience in luxury hospitality, Satish will be leading the task of introducing the legendary outpost to the country starting October 2022. 

This newly transformed property will host time honoured signature rituals of The St. Regis, innovative cuisines, and exceptional amenities including the trademark personalized butler service for each guest.

Satish has successfully launched over 8 luxury hotels across various geographies. With his strong leadership skills and forward-thinking approach, Satish has succeeded in building high performance teams that strive for the best and emerge as winners. In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing hotel operations and ensuring the highest standards of guest services synonymous with the St. Regis brand, are met. 

Prior to this, Satish served as General Manager at The Leela Goa and Conrad Pune. Spanning across his enriching career with esteemed hospitality brands, Satish has led hotel operations with The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, The Taj Group of Hotels and overseas properties like The Marriott Marquis Doha-Qatar, The Westin & Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain and JW Marriott Jakarta- Indonesia. He is also a Certified Green Belt from Six Sigma-Operational Innovation at Marriott International and was awarded the Global Discipline Award for Excellence in Delivering Guest Experience in the year 2018.

Satish is an alumnus of Regency College of Hotel Management & Catering Technology, Osmania University, Hyderabad and also holds a Post Graduate Diploma from The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD). 

When not in work mode, Satish enjoys playing Chef, whipping up a meal for the family and indulging in his love for travel and discovering new places, cultures and cuisines. 

About The St. Regis Goa Resort 

The St. Regis Goa Resort is the first resort experience by the St. Regis branded property in India. Nestled amidst a sprawling spread of 49 acres, the resort is lush with trees, flora, fauna and freshwater lagoons. This contemporary resort experience blends seamlessly into its surroundings with its confluence of Portuguese and Indian architecture. It features the renowned hallmarks and vanguard spirit of the iconic luxury brand, such as its signature rituals, innovative cuisine, and exceptional amenities including the personalized St. Regis Butler service for guests.

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort Announces Alvaro Berton as General Manager

Spanish-born Alvaro Berton has taken charge of Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort, a two-hour drive from Vietnam’s biggest metropolis Ho Chi Minh City.

HO TRAM, Vietnam (October 2022) – A seasoned professional with substantial experience managing hotels in Asia has been appointed to the helm of Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort.

Spanish-born Alvaro Berton has taken charge of the 17-hectare beachfront property at Ho Tram, a two-hour drive from Vietnam’s biggest metropolis Ho Chi Minh City.

Berton has worked in management roles for Meliá Hotels International for more than eight years. He was the general manager of Meliá Purosani Yogyakarta in Indonesia for more than two years, and before that the cluster general manager for Melia’s Sol Beach House Bali Benoa All Inclusive and Sol House Bali Kuta for almost five years.

Before he embarked on a hospitality career, he studied a bachelor’s degree in business and administration at the University of Seville in Spain and worked as a financial officer at CaixaBank Financial Group in Seville. Berton studied a master’s degree in International Hotel Management at the University of Seville and worked as assistant manager at Meliá’s Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Luxury All Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic during his studies. In February 2014 Berton then became the cluster executive assistant manager and revenue manager for Samabe Leisure Resorts, overseeing the hotel operations for Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali and Club Bali Mirage.

Berton’s appointment to the Ho Tram resort comes as Vietnam’s tourism industry booms in the wake of the pandemic’s constraints.

“My team and I look forward to delivering the warm Spanish hospitality, distinctive passion for service and focus on sustainable tourism that Meliá is renowned for,” said Berton.

The 152-room and 83-villa resort features three restaurants including a beach club, three swimming pools, a coffee shop, 20-treatment room spa with an additional foot massage area and beauty salon, executive lounge The Level Lounge, ballroom and conference facilities, kids club, gymnasium, gift shop and more. The resort’s contemporary rooms, suites and villas afford unencumbered views of the ocean, lush gardens, lakes and swimming pools. 

Minor Hotels Announces William Costley as Senior Vice President of Operations - Asia

Minor Hotels is delighted to announce the appointment of William Costley as Senior Vice President of Operations for Asia.

In his new role with Minor Hotels, William, who is known for his conceptual thinking and strategic execution, will oversee all MH brands, including Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli, NH Hotels and NH Collection throughout Asia.

A passionate hotelier, William joins Minor after a stellar career spanning 32 years with Hilton. He moves from Dubai where he was based out of Hilton’s Middle East and Africa (MEA) regional office in the position of Senior Vice President Operations overseeing the group’s Arabian Peninsula and Turkey region.

Pankaj Saxena has been appointed General Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel Pune Kharadi.

Radisson Blu Hotel Pune Kharadi close proximity to Pune Airport having 141 uniquely designed Rooms & Suites with large Meeting & Events spaces. Luxury Spa & Art Fitness Studio with outdoor open to sky Swimming Pool with scenic view. Multiple dining options having Carmine – All Day Dining Coffee Shop, Citrine – The Cake & Bake Shop, Skye – The Lounge Bar, The Bridge – Connecting three cuisines and Signature Speciality Restaurant ‘’The Great Kabab Factory’’.

Certified Leader under RHG: The Leaders Excellence Program - 2019 at RHG Corporate Office Brussels, Belgium. 

Having done a Diploma in Business Administration also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from Mangalore University.

With a career spanning 24 years of hospitality experience. Pankaj previously worked at RHG hotels at distinct locations for nearly a decade also with Sarovar Hotels & ITC Hotels. 

Represented at ITB-Berlin and WTM London several times in recent years along with participation in commercial RHG workshops across SE Asia & China Road Show 2019. 

Pankaj was most recently General Manager at Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport, India close to Mumbai International Airport having 206 distinctively planned Rooms & Spa. 

Also served In Exe Committee as Vice President 2011-12 Hotels & Restaurant Association of Andhra Pradesh, India affiliated with FHRAI. 

Accredited with various recognitions, Pankaj also bagged the prestigious ‘Hotel of the Year’ award at the Asia Pacific Business Conference in 2016 

Manish Uniyal is now the Executive Chef at Hyatt Regency Chennai

The chef will be will be contributing towards customer satisfaction, strengthening the F&B concepts and standards at the hotel.

Hyatt Regency Chennai is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Manish Uniyal as the Executive Chef. He brings with him over 20+ years of hospitality experience and will be seen overlooking the culinary operations of the hotel.

Chef Manish is well versed with Chennai, having studied at the reputed IHM Chennai, he started his career in the city and has worked in brands like ITC, Taj, Leela and Hilton in the past. He is also aware of the Hyatt culture as he previously worked with Hyatt Regency Mumbai and Hyatt Centric Bangalore. During his free time Chef enjoys reading about History, Culture and Numismatics. He has also travelled across the country and has inherited a love for regional cuisine which is reflected in his menus.

Chef Manish has extensively trained in western cuisine and will be contributing towards
customer satisfaction, strengthening the F&B concepts and standards at Hyatt Regency
Chennai.

Dhruv Sharma appointed as Digital Marketing Manager for Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

Dhruv will be responsible for elevating and sustaining the hotel's brand positioning, creating invigorating digital campaigns aligned with the hotels’ key goals, and drive additional revenue through tactical campaigns

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park welcomes Dhruv Sharma as the Digital Marketing Manager. In his role, Dhruv will closely work with diverse teams to optimize customer engagement and marketing strategies across platforms, ensuring paramount hospitality experiences for guests and the commercial success of the twin properties and convention centre.

Dhruv is a dynamic digital marketeer who brings a strong foundation in the world of digital marketing having worked on multiple successful commercial and customer engagement campaigns for brands in travel and sustainable niche hospitality space.  His expertise complemented by a hands-on approach have resulted in diverse collaborations to create and optimize landing pages and design, build, and maintain an active social media presence.

In his new role as the Digital Marketing Manager at the hotel, He will be responsible for elevating and sustaining the hotel’s brand positioning, creating invigorating digital campaigns aligned with the hotels’ key goals, and drive additional revenue through tactical campaigns.

Armed with a Masters degree in Marketing Strategy and Innovation from Cass Business School, City University London, and in-depth tactical knowledge encompassing marketing and communication strategies with a focus on digital and social media practice developed over the years of work experience with brands such as RARE India, TerraVerde, UK and Cox and Kings Ltd. When not conjuring up strategic digital plans for the business, he is an avid traveler and trekker who enjoys exploring offbeat locations by road and on foot.

Ajeet Nayak is now the Front Office Manager at The Fern Goregaon

Ajeet Nayak has been appointed as the Front Office Manager at The Fern Goregaon. He comes with a decade of industry exposure in increasingly responsible roles within the Front office and Room division department.

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Studies. His core competency  lies in excellent Room division operations, OTA revenue management, Time Management Skills, Eye for detailing, Leadership coaching and mentoring. He has worked with  Holiday Inn Mumbai, The Orchid Mumbai, Vivanta by Taj and The Resort Madh Marve in his Career of 10 years in the hospitality Industry. 

He brings The passion for delivering the highest standards of service while managing and motivating his teams.

The Anam Group Announces Three Senior Recruitments

CAM RANH, Vietnam (October 12, 2022) – The Anam Group has called on Laurent Myter, a hospitality veteran with almost three decades of experience managing luxury hotels and resorts, to spearhead its expansion and oversee its growing number of properties. 

The group has also named Martin Koerner, who has a substantial background in sales and marketing, as the group commercial director. Ye Chang Sheng (Peter), who has worked for the group’s first resort Anam Cam Ranh since its 2017 debut, has been promoted to resort manager of the group’s second property, Anam Mui Ne, due to celebrate its grand opening in January

Myter comes to the group after working at YTL Hotels for 26 years, of which 23 years were based in Malaysia where he became YTL’s ‘executive vice president of operations resorts’ responsible for 12 hotels and resorts in Southeast Asia and France. He has been an executive director and the president of Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s International Advisory Board of Hoteliers for three years and two years respectively.

German national Koerner, an impassioned volunteer, returns to the Anam Group after previously working for almost four years as the group’s director of sales, marketing and distribution and the Anam Cam Ranh’s director of sales and marketing from late 2016 until mid 2020. Before his return to the group Koerner helped establish Optimum Hospitality, a specialist hotel and resort asset management and hospitality consultancy company for owners and investors, and was also Alma Resort Cam Ranh’s commercial director for almost two years.

Prior to his new role, Ye worked as the Anam Group’s executive assistant manager at Anam Cam Ranh. He joined the resort in 2017 as its executive chef and played an instrumental role in establishing its four restaurants and three bars. Ye has worked as a chef at InterContinental and Hilton hotels in South Africa, and took charge of the kitchen at Mia Resort Nha Trang as executive chef for two years before joining the Anam.

“Laurent, Martin and Peter all have excellent track records in hospitality leadership and innovation; their rich and diversified experience will propel our group’s aspirations to significantly expand in Vietnam,” said the group’s founder Pham Van Hien.

RAKESH KUMAR, DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING, THE ST. REGIS MUMBAI

Join us in welcoming Rakesh Kumar to The St. Regis Mumbai as he comes on board as Director of Engineering.

With over 22 years of experience in the luxury hospitality business with leading Indian and International chain of hotels, Rakesh brings with him expertise in the engineering and maintenance operations department while driving passion to deliver only the highest standards of service.

Rakesh commenced his career with the Hyatt Group of Hotels post his completion of academics of a B-Tech degree and a Management degree from Amity University. His most recent role as Director of Engineering, Functional Specialist (India - North) at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, allowed him extensive experience while bringing success with their brands Andaz, Grand and Regency.  He achieved internal recognition with his leadership and dedication, proficiently handling people and products effectively in the area of engineering operations. His tenure with varied properties in different cities allows him to be well equipped to handle leisure resorts and urban business hotels alike.

At The St. Regis Mumbai, Rakesh will helm the high performing engineering team to enhance the luxurious experience of the discerning clientele.  He will lead the back of the house and guest facing teams, from training new engineering team members to managing advanced technical projects at the ‘The Best Address’. Rakesh will focus on ensuring attention to detail while driving Guest Voice through the highest standards of service excellence, maintaining the standards for BSA while ensuring the Engineering and Maintenance Division’s profitability.

In his downtime, Rakesh enjoys reading and relaxing with his family.  An avid bike enthusiast, he not only explores new destinations but also does social service to under privileged children with his group of bikers.

ABOUT ST. REGIS HOTELS & RESORTS

Combining classic sophistication with a modern sensibility, St. Regis is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at nearly 40 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Since the opening of the first St. Regis hotel in New York City over a century ago by John Jacob Astor IV, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by signature St. Regis Butler Service. The ultra-luxury brand is set to expand its legacy to 50 hotels by 2018. For more information and new openings, visitstregis.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. St. Regis is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest®, in which members can link accounts with Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer.

Didier Jardin joins Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa as General Manager

Maldives, October 2022: With a focus on serene island living and the charm of a Maldivian village, Four Seasons Resorts Kuda Huraa is an award-winning luxury property that beckons guests with the welcoming embrace of a lagoon, flower gardens, a private spa island in a charming village setting. The luxury resort now welcomes Didier Jardin, a hospitality veteran who has been with the Four Seasons since 1994, as the resort’s new General Manager.  

Born in La Ferte Bernard, France  this sailor, diver and fire fighter; sky diver, adrenaline-junkie, Didier Jardin’s formative years were spent in France’s Loire Valley, a region known for its extraordinary castles and for its Sancerre and Pouilly Fume wines.

With the epiphany that a career in hospitality would afford him the chance to see the world, he commenced a two-year apprenticeship to become a fine-dining waiter, then moved to Paris to practise his craft. He spent three years studying hotel management earning a CFA Food and Beverage Diploma, from Chartres, France and a Hotel Management Diploma, Lasalle College, Montreal. 

“After graduation, marriage and three cold winters, we were craving a warmer life. Somewhere with waterfalls, beaches and rainforest,” Didier recalls. His wife and he packed backpacks and a tent – “as a back-up in case money ran out” – and flew to Hawaii. It was a bold move. “I applied everywhere in the islands and got offers from a Mexican restaurant on the beach and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Looking back, I made the right choice,” he says with a smile.

Nearly three decades later, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is Didier’s tenth Four Seasons posting. From the beaches of Santa Barbara, Bora Bora, Mauritius and Hualalai to the cityscapes of New York, Cairo and Chicago – the birthplace of his twin daughters – he is well on his way to achieving his goal of working for Four Seasons in every region where the brand operates.

People are key to Didier’s definition of success. “Success is built upon the happiness of your employees: if you get that right, everything else will follow,” he states emphatically. As opening General Manager of the architectural marvel of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, he travelled through 15 further countries hiring the right team. His belief? “You can build anything from scratch but you can’t create soul: that has to come from the people you hire.”

Talking of soul: “I came from a small village of just 200 people: Kuda Huraa reminds me of that,” he says of his island home. "That genuine sense of unity and togetherness, of coming home, of people doing things because it’s life, not work. It’s a place to share memories and stories. Life is very different when everyone lives and works on site: our team is like a family, and guests become extended family who come to visit.  Here, you’re at home when you’re at work and at work when you’re home. The sense of connection is magnified – that’s what gives Kuda Huraa its soul.”

Connection underpins Didier’s leadership ethos – as does his passion for “giving back and giving opportunities.” Having started in the industry as an apprentice himself, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Apprenticeship program is of particular interest to him, while his open-door policy further supports his desire to be seen as just one of the team. “We’re all born the same way and all have a job to do,” he concludes. “I am firm, fair and flexible but most of all I strive to have fun. There’s no bigger motivator than a positive working environment.”

HOD Appointments at The Fern Hotels & Resorts Goregaon

Arindam Sarkar

General Manager

Arindam Sarkar is the newly appointed General Manager of The Fern Goregaon. A seasoned professional, Sarkar aims to bring innovation, operational excellence and renewed energy to The Fern Goregaon with his fresh perspective. Sarkar has been a passionate hotelier with over 20 years of experience. He believes that hard work and discipline are secret ingredients to success.

Before joining The Fern Goregaon, Mumbai, Arindam was the General Manager at The Fern Residency, Yeshwantpur, Bangalore. 

Arindam started his career with Radisson hotel New Delhi and worked with Hyatt, P&O cruise liner ,ITC Fortune, Sarovar Hotels and Clark's group of hotels. He lives with his wife Moupeyee and 10 year’s old daughter Arshia. Fitness, movies and travel keep driving him during his free time.

Arvind Dangwal

Executive Chef

 Mr.Arvind Dangwal has been appointed as the Executive Chef of The Fern Goregaon, Mumbai 

With his 24 years’ experience, Chef Dangwal has developed his repertoire to provide an outstanding food experience. He acquired his culinary expertise through high-end hotel and restaurant work in Taj President  Hotel Mumbai, ITC Grand Maratha Sheraton Hotel Mumbai, Orchid Hotel, Mumbai Marriott Hotel, Park Hotel Mumbai, Carnival Cruise USA where he established his career and cultivated attractive culinary techniques and strong leadership in kitchen management. He has been a Jury member in Masterchef India season 5 and 6

Executive Chef, Dangwal is a great asset to The Fern Goregaon. He will continue to provide guests with memorable food experiences

Ajeet Nayak

Front Office Manager

Ajeet Nayak has been appointed as the Front Office Manager at The Fern Goregaon. He comes with a decade of industry exposure in increasingly responsible roles within the Front office & Room division department. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality & Tourism Studies. His core competency  lies in excellent Room division operations, OTA revenue management, Time Management Skills, Eye for detailing, Leadership coaching & mentoring. He has worked with  Holiday Inn Mumbai, The Orchid Mumbai, Vivanta by Taj and The Resort Madh Marve in his Career of 10 years in the hospitality Industry. He brings The passion for delivering the highest standards of service while managing and motivating his teams.

Pradeep Shetty Is The New President Of HRAWI

Mumbai, October At the 72nd Annual General Meeting of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) held on 24th September 2022, Mr Pradeep Shetty – Director, Maharaja Hotels was elected the President. Maharaja Hotels operates hotels and restaurants, among other F&B facilities in Mumbai. Prior to taking over as the President, Mr Shetty served as its Sr. Vice President and has been an active member of the Association for over a decade. He has also served as the Jt. Hon Secretary of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India – the country’s apex Hospitality Association. The youngest President of the Association, Mr Shetty is also considered one of the foremost legal minds on hospitality. He has spearheaded several legal campaigns at the behest of the hospitality industry and played a critical role in bringing together hoteliers and restaurateurs protesting the unethical business practices of OTAs and FSAs, cable TV / TRAI matters, service charges, and MRP issues faced by the members.

“The pandemic dealt a big blow to the hospitality and tourism industry and although things are getting progressively better, there are several concerns that are yet to be addressed. The Association’s endeavour is to do its best towards alleviating as many pain-points of its members and we will work closely with the State and Centre in policy advocacy for the growth of tourism and hospitality in the region. I thank the Executive Committee for their trust and for electing me as President of the Association,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI.

The new office will have Mr Nirav Gandhi and Mr Chetan Mehta as the Sr. Vice President and Vice President of the Association. Mr Jimmy Shaw will act as the Hon. Secretary, Mr Dilip Kothari as the Jt. Hon. Secretary and Mr Paramjit S. Ghai as the Hon. Treasurer of HRAWI.

HRAWI is the hospitality industry’s voice for hotels and restaurants across the Western India region including the States of Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, and the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

About Hotel & Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI)

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) is a 72 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include various restaurants and smaller Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. The bulk of its members like any growth economy are made up of restaurants and budget hotels. With membership

Signum Hotels welcome Jyoti Mayal as the new Board of Director

New Delhi, October 2022: Signum Hotels, a fast-growing hotel management company, today announced Jyoti Mayal as a Board of Directors. She joins the current board that comprises industry stalwarts like Murali Menon, Sunil Sikka, Greesh Bindra, Manoj Virmani, Ish Anand, Rajiv Duggal, Sajid Mahmood, Ashish Chopra, Chef Sultan Mohideen and Riaz Ahmed. 

Jyoti Mayal is a much-respected industry veteran. She is currently the President of the largest nodal Travel & Tourism Association - TAAI (Travel Agents Association of India). She is also the Vice Chairperson of FAITH (Federation of (10) Associations in Tourism & Hospitality); Chairperson of THSC (Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council) under the aegis of NSDC; Special Invitee – ASSOCHAM’s National Council on Tourism, Hospitality, Aviation and Airport Infrastructure; Member National Governing Body CII Tourism Council; and Member Board Indian Chamber of Commerce - Tourism & Aviation.

Commenting on the development, Mehul Sharma, Founder & CEO, Signum Hotels & Resorts said, ‘Onboarding Jyoti Mayal is a matter of pride for Signum Group. Travel Trade and Hospitality go hand in glove and therefore, having Jyoti as a Board Member will open for us a plethora of opportunities across India, Asia and the globe.” 

Ms Jyoti Mayal stated that she is thrilled to be a part of the Signum group and of the opportunity to support the most important pillar of the tourism vertical – Hospitality. “I have been working closely with the fraternity and a strategic association like this would be an opportunity for me to contribute, to the best of my experience and expertise, towards the growth and expansion of the group in India and abroad. I am keenly looking forward to extending support to the hospitality sector and creating opportunities for not only the group but the whole industry, to recover post covid & flourish. Together we can rebuild this industry of Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality,” she added.

Chef Daniel Kumar joins as a Director of Food and Beverage at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal

Howard Johnson By Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal is excited to announce the appointment of Chef Daniel Kumar as its new Director of Food and Beverage. With over a decade of experience, Chef Daniel’s hospitality journey includes some Indian and International names like Taj Hotels & Resorts, Le Royal Meridien, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHG, Radisson Hotels and Lalit Hotels & Resorts.

On the educational front, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from Dr Ambedkar Institute of Management Studies Bangalore.

In this current role, Chef Daniel will spearhead all food and beverage operations including restaurants, bars, in-room dining, banquets, and meeting rooms. He will take care of menu engineering, problem resolution, revenue management, staff management, operations management, and event curation.

Howard Johnson Bengaluru Hebbal hotel is conveniently located near Manyata Embassy Business Park and just 35 minutes from Bengaluru Airport (BLR). With its own personality and style, every room, nook and corner of HoJo will make you feel at home. A champion brand of the everyday traveler, the upscale, mid-market hotel offers the iconic HoJo hospitality with free Wi-Fi connectivity, a well-equipped gymnasium, an executive lounge, some of the city’s finest conference & meeting spaces, a spa and sauna, a welcoming as well as azure outdoor swimming pool.

Keith Rajan Joins Four Seasons Mumbai as Hotel Manager

(Mumbai, India): A hospitality industry specialist with over 22 years of experience across different markets, Keith Rajan has been appointed the Hotel Manager of Four Seasons Mumbai. In this role, Keith will oversee the day-to-day operations of the award-winning hotel including managing its luxurious rooms, the city’s favorite Asian restaurant, San:Qi, the spa, meetings & events. His role will also be focused on the monumental relaunches scheduled for the property in the coming months. These include the iconic rooftop destination AER, as well as the brand-new Modernist, set to be the city’s most sought-after members-only Club, and many more.

Keith started his career in hospitality as a bartender and his skills propelled his journey towards the globally-acclaimed Buddha Bar in Dubai and in Manila, Philippines. He invested time to accelerate his professional growth with Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts in Dubai, Beijing, Manila & Boracay in the Philippines, Doha and Columbo, where he rose the ranks up to Executive Assistant Manager. His first management role in India was as Executive Assistant Manager at St. Regis Mumbai, which was his last assignment prior to his induction to Four Seasons Mumbai. 

In his extensive career, Keith has been instrumental in creating F&B Concepts, leading and training diverse teams, optimizing revenues across different verticals, while retaining a laser-focused approach on high-quality experiences. 

On this appointment, Sunil Narang, General Manager commented, “It is with great pleasure that we welcome Keith to Four Seasons Mumbai. Keith has a very optimistic outlook and chooses to look at the positive side of things, along with putting in lots of hard work backed by determination. This is a great mindset for the current moment of metamorphosis for the property.”

Keith holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from The Madras University at Chennai along with a higher diploma in Hospitality Administration and Management from MGR Institute of Hotel Management, Chennai. He is also certified as Advisor of Spirits from Diebel's Academy of Fine Spirits. Being a firm proponent of continually upskilling to be a better leader, he is currently pursuing a Certification in Hospitality Business Acumen from Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International and holds Cornell Certifications in Hospitality Management, Restaurant Revenue Management and Financial Management. 

As a food & beverage enthusiast even beyond his profession, Keith cherishes the culinary offerings of the Maximum City, from street food to fine dining options, and all that lies in between. His favourite way to unwind is with a spin on his motorbike and he hopes to build a collection of motorbikes along the way.

The novel brand ‘ZANA - Luxury Escapes’ appoints Avinash Handoo as the Executive Chef, for its first resort ‘ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur’

October 2022, New Delhi: ‘ZANA Lake resort, Udaipur’, the maiden boutique resort of the swiftly emerging hospitality company, ‘Espire Hospitality Group’ has appointed Avinash Handoo as the Executive Chef.  In this position, Chef Avinash will spearhead the culinary operations of this exclusive 30-room lakefront resort and will take the guests on a culinary journey of bespoke experiences, delightful flavours, and sustainable ingredients.

 

Chef Handoo brings with him a flavourful experience of over 25 years and is an expert in Indian and continental cuisine. In his past experience, he has worked with some of the leading hospitality brands including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group and Le Meredien. The key to Chef Avinash’s success is his intuitive focus on the customer experience - an approach perfectly aligned with his new role at ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur. With his reverence for fresh and organic ingredients, he is attuned to providing a nourishing experience to every guest.

Chef Avinash is the winner of the ‘3rd Le Cordon Bleu IFOWS’ culinary cup and has also won two gold medals and one bronze medal in the ‘Mango Culinary Contest’ organized by the Delhi Tourism.

 

Shares Akhil Arora, Chief Operating Officer, Espire Hospitality Group, “We are delighted to have Chef Avinash Handoo on board and look forward to create a dining culture that combines sensorial pleasures with a conscious culinary philosophy. We are positive that he will be an asset to our team and will infuse his creativity, valuable wealth of experience, and impressive cuisine style to create dining experiences that are both indulgent and nourishing.

 

About Espire Hospitality Group

Espire Hospitality Group is the owning company of India’s most magnificent luxury resort ‘Six Senses Fort Barwara’, own and operate a mid-market resort chain ‘Country Inn Hotels and Resorts’ and operate a luxury boutique resort brand ‘ZANA - Luxury Escapes’ that is a confluence of luxury and top notch hospitality. The group plans to open 20 hotels and resorts in next 2 to 3 years.