JW Marriott Chandigarh Welcomes Ashish Ray as Director of Sales and Marketing

Chandigarh, November, 2024: JW Marriott Chandigarh is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashish Ray as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. With over 15 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Ashish brings a wealth of expertise, innovative strategies, and proven leadership to his new role.

Ashish’s illustrious career includes leadership roles at globally renowned hospitality brands such as The Leela, Hyatt, Accor, and Taj. His expertise in sales strategy, market analysis, team management, and client engagement has consistently driven revenue growth and strengthened brand presence.

Commenting on his appointment, Ashish shared, “I am excited to join JW Marriott Chandigarh, a property celebrated for its iconic presence and exceptional service. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team to drive growth and deliver outstanding results.”

Vishal Singh, General Manager of JW Marriott Chandigarh, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Ashish Ray to our leadership team. His extensive experience and innovative approach make him an invaluable addition. We are confident his expertise will propel the property to new heights of success and further enhance our brand’s market leadership.”

About JW Marriott Chandigarh: JW Marriott Chandigarh is a preferred destination for both leisure and business travelers. Its central location, impeccable service, and luxurious amenities have established it as a landmark in the region.  

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 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 X and Instagram.

The Westin Goa appoints Satish Mahale as Director of Loss & Prevention

Satish is a seasoned expert in crisis management, security strategy, and emergency response

Satish Mahale is the new Director of Loss & Prevention at The Westin Goa. With over 18 years of experience in safety and security, Satish is a seasoned expert in crisis management, security strategy, and emergency response. He most recently served as Director of Security at Accor’s Novotel Goa Candolim and Novotel Goa Resort & Spa.

Satish has a proven track record in risk management, surveillance systems, fire safety, and law enforcement coordination. His extensive training includes certifications in active shooter response, fire safety, OSHA safety standards, and security access control, all contributing to his ability to lead in high-pressure situations while ensuring guest and staff safety.

In his new role, Satish will oversee the security operations at The Westin Goa, focusing on safeguarding property, guests, and employees while enhancing emergency response plans and risk management strategies.

Harish Gopalakrishnan, General Manager of The Westin Goa, shares, “We are thrilled to welcome Satish Mahale to our team. His wealth of experience and leadership in security will be instrumental in elevating safety standards and enhancing the guest experience at The Westin Goa.”

Zenith U joined Grand Mercure Bengaluru as the Rooms Division Manager

Throughout his tenure in the hospitality industry, Zenith has been recognized with multiple awards for his commitment to guest satisfaction and service innovation

Grand Mercure Bengaluru has appointed Zenith U as its new Rooms Division Manager. Zenith began his illustrious career spanning 10 years at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan and has since held significant roles across leading hospitality brands, including Novotel Pune, Novotel & ibis Chennai OMR, and ibis Chennai City Centre. Prior to joining Grand Mercure Bangalore, he served as the Director of Guest Services at ibis Chennai City Centre, where he managed Rooms and Food & Beverage operations. His tenure also included heading operations, demonstrating his exceptional leadership capabilities.

Zenith has been recognized with accolades such as Manager of the Year 2022 and the Best Personality Award (Rooms) on International Hospitality Day 2023, underscoring his commitment to guest satisfaction and service innovation.

Zenith’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in maritime hospitality studies from RL Institutes, Madurai, complemented by certifications in bartending and maritime safety. His comprehensive understanding of hospitality operations, coupled with a passion for creating memorable guest journeys, align perfectly with Grand Mercure Bengaluru’s commitment to delivering unique, vibrant, and personalized experiences.

Zenith’s appointment reflects Grand Mercure Bengaluru’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and delivering exceptional service standards in India’s competitive hospitality landscape.

Air India SATS appoints Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani as Chief Executive Officer

New Delhi, November, 2024: Air India SATS Airport Services Private Limited (AISATS), India’s leading airport services management company, today announced the appointment of Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani as its Chief Executive Officer, effective 14th November 2024. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Mr. Ramana brings a wealth of experience in leadership, innovation, and operational excellence to the organization. This marks Mr. Ramana’s second tenure as AISATS CEO, a position he previously held from 2018 to 2021.

A passionate leader, Mr. Ramana started his career in 2001 as an engineer with the Defence Science and Technology Agency, where he played a crucial role in ensuring the reliability of fighter jets for the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). In 2006, he transitioned to Indeco Engineers, spearheading several turnkey projects for both commercial and military ground operations.

He joined SATS Ltd. in 2011, where his proven track record of innovation and leadership earned him significant accolades. Notably, he also led a fully-owned subsidiary of SATS to win Singapore’s prestigious National Productivity Award in 2016. He has held pivotal roles within SATS, including CEO of AISATS from 2018 to 2021, CEO of SATS Security Services in Singapore, and Head of Projects & New Services Delivery across the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr. Ramana holds a Bachelor of Engineering and a Master of Science in Logistics from the National University of Singapore. He also completed an Executive MBA course from Nanyang Technological University and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

On his new role, Mr. Ramana commented, “I am deeply honoured to return to AISATS as CEO. India holds tremendous potential in the aviation and ground/cargo handling sectors, and I look forward to leading AISATS towards delivering innovative solutions, operational excellence, and exceptional service for our customer airlines, passengers and service partners."

The Orchid Hotel Pune Promotes Dipak Singh to Assistant F&B Manager

Pune: The Orchid Hotel Pune has announced Dipak Singh's promotion to Assistant Food & Beverage Manager.

Dipak brings over eight years of hospitality experience to his new role, with a proven track record of delivering top-notch dining experiences. Since joining the hotel in 2020, he's been instrumental in making banquet experiences for their guests unforgettable.

Dipak’s career reflects a commitment to excellence. Having worked with esteemed properties like Holiday Inn, Marriott and Crowne Plaza, he has developed a deep understanding of crafting exceptional guest experiences. His expertise ranges from handling complex event setups to ensuring smooth day-to-day operations in high-pressure environments.

His attention to detail, warm hospitality, and team leadership skills as the banquet manager have earned Dipak exceptional feedback from his peers and guests alike. "I'm honored and grateful for this opportunity. I'm excited to contribute even more to our hotel's success and make our guests' come back again and again to The Orchid.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel appoints Ravi Rawat as the Assistant Pastry Chef

Bengaluru, November 2024: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center is delighted to announce the appointment of Ravi Rawat as its new Assistant Pastry Chef. A culinary artisan with over nine years of experience, Chef Ravi is renowned for his expertise in bakery and pastry arts, blending creativity with precision to deliver exceptional gastronomic creations.

Chef Ravi’s impressive career spans some of the country’s most esteemed establishments, including Grand Hyatt Kochi, The Westin Hyderabad, and Aloft Hotel Bengaluru. At Grand Hyatt Kochi, he led bakery operations, crafting innovative recipes and mentoring a team of pastry chefs. His remarkable contributions to the culinary world have earned him accolades. Among his notable achievements is the creation of the tallest edible Christmas tree at The Westin Hyderabad, a feat that garnered widespread acclaim.

Guided by a culinary philosophy that champions the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Chef Ravi curates’ desserts that cater to a diverse range of palates. His passion for innovation drives him to experiment with new techniques and flavors, ensuring every creation is a memorable indulgence.

In his new role, Chef Ravi will oversee the bakery and pastry operations at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center. With his artistic vision and leadership, the hotel’s dining experience is set to reach new heights, offering guests an exquisite array of desserts that perfectly complement its world-class hospitality. In his leisure time, he enjoys food photography and experimenting with new, creative recipes.

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 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 X and Instagram.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel appoints Rajasekar as the Beverage Manager

Bangalore, November: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center is delighted to announce the appointment of Rajasekar as the new Beverage Manager. With an impressive career spanning over eight years in the hospitality industry, Rajasekar brings a wealth of experience in delivering top-tier guest satisfaction and driving impactful beverage operations.

Rajasekar’s career journey has been defined by his successful roles in premier hospitality establishments, most recently at Aloft Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, where he excelled as the Beverage Manager. His contributions included spearheading innovative beverage concepts and introducing cost-effective strategies that elevated the guest experience. His background also includes significant tenures at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, Radisson Blu Bengaluru, and Le Meridien Bengaluru, where his leadership, attention to detail, and ability to manage large teams have consistently delivered remarkable results, enhanced guest experiences, and increased revenue.

Among his many achievements, Rajasekar has been recognized for organizing high-profile events, such as the launch of ECHO Lounge Bar at Aloft. His accolades include the "Best Guest Voice Driven Employee of the Year" by Marriott in 2023 and a National Level Best Bartender award at COMETZ in 2017, showcasing his dedication to excellence and guest-centered service.

In his new role at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, Rajasekar will oversee beverage operations and is set to bring his signature blend of innovation, expertise, and leadership to further elevate the property’s food and beverage offerings. Guests can look forward to exciting, fresh additions to the drink menu as Rajasekar introduces unique flavors and contemporary concepts

Hilton Jaipur welcomes new Chief Engineer – Naveen Shekhawat

Naveen brings extensive experience in pre-openings, large-scale renovations, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of advanced technologies.

Naveen Shekhawat joins Hilton Jaipur as its new Chief Engineer. Naveen’s extensive career spanning 20 years boasts a proven track record in operations, maintenance, energy conservation, project management, and fire and life safety. He has built an impressive portfolio, working with prestigious brands such as Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.

As an accomplished engineering professional, Naveen is deeply committed to cultivating a secure and welcoming environment. He leverages his vast expertise and in-depth understanding of sophisticated engineering protocols to ensure the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency. His comprehensive experience spans pre-openings, large-scale renovations, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies. Naveen’s unwavering dedication to preserving the hotel’s assets and elevating product quality has been instrumental in his success across the industry’s most revered brands.

Commenting on his new role, Naveen said, “This is a truly exciting opportunity, and I am eager to bring my expertise and passion to Hilton Jaipur. My primary focus will be on maintaining the highest levels of quality and comfort for our guests and team, while also prioritizing our environmental and social responsibilities.”

Rahul Bhagat, General Manager of Hilton Jaipur, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Naveen to our leadership team. His extensive background in engineering, combined with his unwavering commitment to excellence and product quality, makes him the ideal leader for this role. With Naveen guiding our engineering operations, we are confident that Hilton Jaipur will continue to be a premier destination that prioritizes guest experience while upholding sustainability in all our engineering efforts.”

Mohammed Saleem Gafoor Joins Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru as Executive Pastry Chef

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is pleased to announce the appointment of Mohammed Saleem Gafoor as the new Executive Pastry Chef. With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality and a career that has spanned renowned international properties, Chef Saleem is set to bring a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and passion for pastry arts to the hotel’s esteemed culinary team.

Having worked with prestigious brands such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Ritz-Carlton, and Le-Royal Meridien, Chef Saleem has built a stellar reputation throughout his career. Most recently, he served as the Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotel & Resort Doha, where he led the pastry division for nearly a decade. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative dessert creations, Chef Saleem has worked with world-class teams and handled large-scale events, including the FIFA 2022 preparations in Qatar. His exposure across various Four Seasons properties, including cross-training in Mauritius and Bahrain, has equipped him with a unique global perspective, which aligns with Four Seasons’ commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences.

Commenting on his new role, Chef Saleem said, “I am honoured to join the talented team at Four Seasons Bengaluru. I look forward to continuing the legacy of excellence in pastry and elevating the dessert experience for our guests with my signature creations.”

The team at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is excited to welcome Chef Saleem as he embarks on this new chapter, bringing his innovative techniques and deep passion for pastry to the forefront of the hotel’s renowned culinary offerings.

Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West Appoints Mr. Nikhil Pol as the Chief Engineer

Mumbai, November 2024 –  Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s distinctive portfolio, is honored to announce the appointment of Mr. Nikhil Pol as the Chief Engineer.With nearly a decade of experience across several distinguished properties, Nikhil Pol brings a deep expertise in engineering and facility management that will be pivotal in driving operational excellence at Moxy Mumbai. 

Nikhil began his career in hospitality engineering as a Graduate Engineering Trainee with Taj Hotels, where he quickly distinguished himself. His first role was at the renowned Taj Fort Aguada, Goa, where he handled guest room renovations and rose to the position of Engineer. Nikhil then transitioned to the Ambassador - IHCL SeleQtions, New Delhi, where he served as Deputy Engineer for three years, honing his skills in maintenance and engineering coordination at a high-profile property.

Following his tenure in Delhi, Nikhil joined The Leela Goa as Deputy Chief Engineer and played an integral role in the seamless conversion of the property into The St. Regis Goa Resort. This accomplishment highlighted his commitment to quality and his capacity for overseeing complex transitions within high-demand hospitality environments.

As Chief Engineer at Moxy Mumbai, Nikhil will leverage his extensive technical knowledge and operational insights to ensure smooth coordination with the projects team, overseeing all technical aspects of the hotel’s operations. His role will be crucial in upholding Moxy’s standards for efficiency, innovation, and guest satisfaction through strategic engineering and maintenance practices.

Nikhil Pol’s appointment underscores Moxy Mumbai’s commitment to providing guests with a reliable and meticulously maintained environment, reflective of Marriott’s high standards. His proven track record in engineering excellence and hands-on approach make him an ideal leader for Moxy Mumbai’s energetic and inclusive ethos. Nikhil’s expertise will undoubtedly contribute to establishing Moxy Mumbai as a premier destination for modern travelers seeking a stylish and spirited experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, appoints Mahesh MS as Director of Engineering

Mahesh is known for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, has appointed Mahesh MS as the new Director of Engineering. With over 15 years of operational experience and a key presence at the hotel since 2019, Mahesh’s leadership continues to elevate the hotel’s commitment to excellence and luxury in hospitality.

Mahesh’s journey in the industry began at Ananda in the Himalayas before he joined Marriott in 2013 as Assistant Chief Engineer. He joined The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, in 2019 and rose through the ranks to the role of Chief Engineer in 2022, advancing to Assistant Director of Engineering in 2023, and now leading as Director of Engineering.

Reuben Kataria, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, expressed his confidence in the new leadership, stating, “As we welcome our new Director of Engineering, we recognize the significant impact of his expertise in our operations. An experienced leader who has risen through the ranks, Mahesh brings a profound understanding of our brand values. His technical acumen will not only elevate our operational excellence but also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to sustainable practices.”

Having played key roles at esteemed properties such as Marriott Resort & Spa Coorg, Le Méridien Hyderabad, and Fairfield Sriperumbudur, Mahesh is recognized for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability.

With Mahesh in this leadership role, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, looks forward to building on its dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences and responsible environmental practices.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Yogesh Pawar as General Manager – Procurement

Mumbai, November, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Yogesh Pawar as the new General Manager - Procurement. With over 21 years of extensive experience in procurement and supply chain management, Mr. Pawar will play a crucial role in developing and executing procurement strategies that align with The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ business goals, while also contributing to the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.

In his new role, Mr. Pawar will be responsible for developing comprehensive procurement plans, identifying and evaluating potential suppliers, negotiating strategic sourcing contracts, and improving supply chain visibility and performance across the company’s operations. His focus will also include optimizing costs, managing budgets, and implementing sustainable procurement practices that align with The Fern Hotels & Resorts' environmentally conscious brand values.

Mr. Pawar brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having worked with some of the most respected names in the hospitality industry such as Soho House Mumbai and The Accor Group, where he held senior positions. His in-depth understanding of procurement principles, strategies, and best practices, combined with a proven ability to align procurement functions with organizational goals, positions him as an invaluable addition to The Fern Hotels & Resorts team.

With a strong background in managing complex supply chains, negotiating contracts, and fostering relationships with vendors, Mr. Pawar is also highly experienced in implementing socially responsible and sustainable procurement practices. Mr. Pawar’s appointment underscores The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ continued commitment to building a robust, cost-effective, and sustainable procurement strategy across all its properties.

Shyam Kumar appointed as the new General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield

Shyam Kumar has been appointed as the General manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield. Shyam brings with him over two decades of experience in managing Luxury and Upscale Hotels. In his last role as General manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Agra he spearheaded hotels growth, performance and expansion making it the preferred destination for Upscale weddings and leisure travellers. His innovation and strategic foresight helped elevate hotels reputation in the region.

Familiar with Bengaluru market , Shyam started his Hilton journey with Conrad Bengaluru as Director of Operations where he played crucial role in establishing the iconic hotel as a luxury destination before moving to Agra. 

Prior to this, he was associated with renowned brands such as Shangri-La, Sheraton, JW Marriott in India and New Zealand. With a strong Food & Beverage background, Shyam is very dynamic and a risk-taking leader who always strives to drive innovation at every work place. 

Shyam strongly believes in workplace diversity and inclusion, connecting back with local communities. DoubleTree by Hilton Agra has given stable jobs to 5 specially-abled team members and first Hilton Hotel in India to work with Transgenders. He strongly believes that business is all about spreading light and warmth of hospitality between all stake holders. Personalisation and eye to detail is the new definition of luxury as per him. Empowering team to perform their best is the key leadership style for Shyam.

Fitness, Music and books are his passion outside of hospitality. He also spends his Sunday morning riding his bike as he always feels each person should spend time some quality time alone to discover our own self. He also likes to travel and explore heritage and spiritual places. 

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Pratesh Patil as General Manager – Operations (South & East India)

Mumbai, November 14, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Pratesh Patil as the new General Manager - Operations for South & East India. In this strategic role, Mr. Patil will oversee the operations and management of The Fern Hotels & Resorts' current and expanding portfolio of properties across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala.

With two decades of rich experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Patil brings a wealth of knowledge in operations management, team leadership, and business strategy. His appointment comes at an important time as The Fern Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its footprint and enhance its offerings in the southern and eastern regions of India. Mr. Patil’s primary focus will be on driving operational excellence, ensuring the delivery of exceptional guest experiences, enhancing service quality, and fostering sustainable practices at the company's properties. He will also play a pivotal role in aligning operational strategies with the brand's broader vision of growth and sustainability.

Before joining The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Mr. Patil held senior leadership roles with prestigious hospitality brands including Marriott International and The Accor Group. His expertise in operational efficiency, revenue management, and strategic planning has enabled him to drive significant improvements in guest satisfaction and operational profitability in his previous roles. Mr. Patil’s deep understanding of both luxury and business hotel segments, along with his focus on operational sustainability, aligns perfectly with the core values of The Fern Hotels & Resorts.

His strategic vision and leadership will be key to driving the company’s long-term growth in these vibrant regions. With Mr. Patil’s appointment, the company is poised to further enhance its operational capabilities and solidify its position as a preferred choice for guests seeking both luxury and sustainability.

IBIS Styles ibis Mysuru appoints Ganeshram Iyer as Hotel Manager

National, November  2024 – ibis Styles Mysuru is pleased to welcome Mr. Ganeshram Iyer as its new Hotel Manager. With an impressive 21-year career in the hospitality industry, Mr. Iyer brings extensive expertise in enhancing operational efficiency, elevating guest satisfaction, and driving financial performance across luxury and midscale hotel segments.

Prior to joining ibis Styles Mysuru, Mr. Ganeshram served as Director of Operations at Novotel Chennai SIPCOT. His illustrious career also includes pivotal roles at prominent brands such as Radisson, Holiday Inn, and Hyatt. Mr. Ganeshram who is known for his energetic leadership, is skilled at crafting and implementing effective operational strategies. A dedicated mentor, he is committed to talent development, having successfully nurtured Head of Departments and second-line leaders, establishing a robust leadership pipeline.

Mr. Ganeshram’s expertise spans critical areas such as hotel operations management, team leadership, guest satisfaction, revenue optimization, and compliance with health and safety standards. His strategic abilities in budgeting, financial planning, and sales and marketing position him as an asset to ibis Styles Mysuru’s mission of service excellence.

Mr. Ganeshram holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Aurangabad University and has completed advanced professional courses in leadership and revenue management. His strengths in team leadership, cost control, and enhancing guest experiences align seamlessly with ibis Styles Mysuru’s commitment to operational excellence.

He is excited to bring his passion for hospitality and dedication to service excellence to ibis Styles Mysuru, contributing to its continued success and growth. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, exploring authentic local cuisine, and watching movies.

Holiday Inn Agra Appointed Sachin Dhingra as the New General Manager

Holiday Inn Agra is thrilled to announce the joining of Sachin Dhingra who is taking the helm of hotel operations as the General Manager at Holiday Inn Agra.

Sachin brings with him over two decades of distinguished experience, marked by an exceptional track record as a turnaround specialist. He has consistently transformed projects with a strategic focus on Sales and Marketing that has delivered exceptional results. With 9 years of output-driven expertise in General Management, Sachin has excelled across Finance, Operations, Sales, and HR in both national and international settings, demonstrating leadership that enhances ROI, Guest Satisfaction, and Employee Engagement. 

His career includes noteworthy roles such as General Manager at Boudl Hotels & Resorts, Saudi Arabia, Radisson Bangalore, Multi-Property General Manager for Radisson & Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites, New Delhi. Director of Food & Beverage across top brands in India and Dubai, including Jaypee Hotels, Radisson, and Arabian Courtyard Hotel.

Sachin’s achievements are underscored by industry recognition, including the Top Performer Award at Boudl Hotels & Resorts, and F&B Manager of the Year (2014) by Hotelier India. His expertise extends to operational excellence, pre-opening success, and revenue enhancement, as demonstrated by his impressive results at Boudl Hotels, where he surpassed pre-opening revenue targets and enhanced the hotel’s GSI.

Sachin holds a Master’s in Tourism Management from IGNOU and a Diploma in Hotel Management from Thiruvananthapuram. He also completed the Chief Operating Officer Certification from IIM Lucknow in 2023, further strengthening his leadership foundation.

On a personal note, Sachin is happily married to Charu, and they are blessed with two daughters, Krishika (13) and Eshani (8). In his leisure time, he enjoys practicing Dhyana Yoga, driving, and reading on topics related to psychology, finance, and management.

Sarovar Premiere Amritsar appoints Abhilash Menon as General Manager

Sarovar Premiere Amritsar has appointed Abhilash Menon as the General Manager. Abhilash began his journey with Taj Hotels in 2006, after graduating from the IHM Jaipur. His career has been marked by significant milestones, including his tenure at the iconic Leela Gurgaon, others where he played a pivotal role in managing the Food and Beverage portfolio, during high-profile events, such as the visits of two US Presidents and the Various Country heads, along with numerous other heads of state. 

Guided by the hospitality philosophy of India – “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means "the guest is God". Abhilash has been committed to enhancing guest experiences and positioning the hotel as a premier luxury destination in Amritsar. He aims to cultivate a culture of excellence and innovation, ensuring every guest experience is memorable and unique. 

A versatile hotelier and confident individual, Abhilash is known for confidently managing medium to large-scale hotel operations and bringing a wealth of leadership experience to the industry.

Expressing his enthusiasm about his new role, Abhilash said, “I am honoured to join Sarovar Premiere Amritsar and excited to open the first Sarovar Premiere in Punjab. My vision is to build a vibrant and dynamic environment where guests get a refreshed experience every time they step in. Together with my team, I aim to establish Sarovar Premiere Amritsar as a benchmark for hospitality in Amritsar.”

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Anurag Agarwal as Finance Controller

Holiday Inn Agra is delighted to announce the appointment of Anurag Agarwal as our new Finance Controller. With over 12 years of experience in finance across prestigious hospitality brands like Double Tree by Hilton Agra and The Oberoi Amarvilas, Anurag’s leadership, expertise, and dedication are set to elevate our property’s operational standards.

Anurag holds a Master’s degree in Accounting from Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, Agra, which has further enriched his expertise and knowledge in the field. With a commitment to sustainable growth and financial integrity, Anurag is well-positioned to make a significant impact at Holiday Inn Agra. We look forward to seeing his leadership and expertise in action as he takes on this vital role.

Beyond his professional achievements, Anurag treasures quality time with his wonderful family, including his wife and daughter. He also has a passion for travel, always eager to explore new places and experiences.

We are excited to have Anurag on board and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to Holiday Inn Agra.

Holiday Inn Agra Welcomes Ram Narayan Singh as IT Manager

Holiday Inn Agra is excited to welcome Ram Narayan Singh as the new IT Manager. With an extensive background in technology management and digital innovation, Ram Narayan is set to lead our IT operations and drive transformative initiatives that will enhance our systems and support our growth.

Ram Narayan brings over 17 years of experience in IT & Network Management within the hospitality industry, having previously worked with leading hotels such as The Park, Radisson Blu, Country Inn & Suites, and Jaypee Greens Golf Spa & Resorts. With his extensive experience across hotel systems and applications. He is fully prepared to deliver outstanding results.

In this role, Ram Narayan will oversee IT strategy, infrastructure, and security while fostering a seamless and secure digital environment across the organization. His focus on innovation, efficiency, and resilience will help Holiday Inn Agra to maintain a competitive edge and adapt to new technological advancements.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ram Narayan cherishes time with his family—his wife and daughter. He is also enthusiastic about cricket and has a keen interest in exploring new technologies.

We’re thrilled to have Ram Narayan on board to lead our IT initiatives and ensure we continue to meet the highest standards in technology and security.

Khizer Khan joins DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad as new Hotel Manager

Khizer brings over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry and great enthusiasm to his role
DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad has appointed Khizer Khan as its new Hotel Manager. With over 17 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Khizer brings a wealth of knowledge and a dynamic leadership approach to the role.

Khizer has worked with some of the most esteemed brands in the industry, including Marriott in London Kensington, Hilton at London Heathrow Airport, and Hampton by Hilton in London Waterloo. His impressive career spans various leadership positions, providing him with a deep understanding of hotel operations and guest services and driving operational excellence across diverse environments.

“I love the challenge of overseeing the entire operation and ensuring everything runs smoothly. I thrive on building a strong team and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. It’s rewarding to develop strategies that enhance guest satisfaction while driving the hotel’s success,” says Khizer. “Each day brings new opportunities to innovate and improve, keeping my passion for hospitality alive and vibrant.”

In his new role, Khizer will oversee all aspects of operations at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening the hotel’s reputation for exceptional service.

Khizer’s passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and staff complements his vision of building a culture of excellence. His strong commitment to collaboration and innovation makes him the perfect fit to lead the hotel into its next chapter.