The Machan Appoints Sakshi Sarmandal as Director of Talent and Culture

The Machan Appoints Sakshi Sarmandal as Director of Talent and Culture

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 16, 2024

The award-winning Machan Resorts LLP has further strengthened its leadership team by appointing Sakshi Sarmandal as the Director of Talent and Culture. With over 30 years of exceptional hospitality to its name, The Machan is committed to fostering a people-centric environment, and Sakshi's appointment underscores this dedication.

In her new role, Sakshi will be responsible for executing strategies to enhance the group's employee-centric culture, ensuring that The Machan continues to attract top talent while providing an inspiring workplace. With a Business Administration degree in Human Resources from The Welingkar Institute of Management Studies, she brings a rich blend of academic knowledge and practical experience.

Sakshi’s impressive background in hospitality includes stints at JW Marriott Juhu, Sarovar Hotels, Pride Hotels, Sayaji Hotels, and even as a professor at IHM College. Her wealth of experience in talent management and people development is set to play a pivotal role in the growth and success of The Machan brand.

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Speaking on the appointment, Rakshit Sharma, COO, said, "We are thrilled to have Sakshi join our leadership team. Her experience in talent management and passion for developing people will play a key role in strengthening our employee-centric culture and driving the overall growth of our brand."

Expressing her excitement, Sakshi added, "I am excited to be a part of a brand that values sustainability and innovation. My goal is to create an environment where employees feel empowered, valued, and equipped to thrive in their careers."

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About The Machan:

The Machan is a one-of-a-kind eco-resort renowned for its luxurious treehouses in Lonavala, offering serene views and an unparalleled connection to nature. The group also operates Legacy Mandawa, a heritage haveli resort in Rajasthan, and is expanding with new properties in Jawai, Jaisalmer, Udaipur (Rajasthan), Mulshi, and Pawna.

For more information, please visit www.themachan.com and follow @machanresorts on Instagram.


DoubleTree by Hilton Goa-Panaji Welcomes Blisse Colaco as Marketing & Communications Manager

DoubleTree by Hilton Goa-Panaji Welcomes Blisse Colaco as Marketing & Communications Manager

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 28, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Goa-Panaji has announced the appointment of Blisse Colaco as its new Marketing & Communications Manager. In her role, Colaco will develop and implement marketing strategies and budgeting plans aimed at strengthening the hotel's brand perception and market position.

Blisse comes with a wealth of experience, having previously worked for over five years at Goa Marriott Resort and Spa (Marriott International) and contributing significantly to their marketing and communications efforts. Her career also includes roles at Cidade de Goa and corporate positions at Alcon Victor Group and ICICI Bank.

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Speaking about the appointment, Harshad Nalawade, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Goa-Panaji, said, “We are excited to welcome Blisse to the team. Her extensive experience and dedication to marketing excellence will be key in enhancing our brand presence and driving growth.”

Blisse Colaco expressed her excitement by saying, “I am thrilled to join the team at DoubleTree by Hilton Goa-Panaji. I look forward to fostering creativity, collaboration, and redefining memorable experiences for our guests and stakeholders.”

With her appointment, the hotel aims to continue elevating its market presence and achieving new business milestones.


Kutani Bagh Sariska Welcomes Mr. Hem Singh Rathore as General Manager of Operations and Development

Kutani Bagh Sariska Welcomes Mr. Hem Singh Rathore as General Manager of Operations and Development

By Author

Published on January 23, 2025

Kutani Bagh Sariska, a premier eco-luxury lodge located in Talab Village, Alwar, Rajasthan, is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Hem Singh Rathore as its new General Manager of Operations and Development. With over 16 years of expertise in the hospitality industry, Mr. Rathore has established himself as a specialist in the Food and Beverage and Wildlife Hospitality segments. His career includes leadership roles with prestigious brands such as the Clarks Group of Hotels, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, Brij Hotel Jawai, and Aramness Gir National Park, which was listed as one of the best jungle lodges by Forbes. At Kutani Bagh Sariska, Mr. Rathore will leverage his extensive experience to enhance the property’s operations and elevate guest experiences.

Nestled amidst the scenic Aravali Hills and surrounded by abundant wildlife, including leopards and hyenas, Kutani Bagh Sariska offers a unique blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. The property features 11 well-appointed accommodations, comprising 7 luxury tents and 4 stone cottages, all designed to provide an unparalleled wilderness experience. Known for its tailored packages that combine adventure with comfort, the lodge has gained recognition as a rising star in eco-tourism.

In 2024, Kutani Bagh Sariska earned two prestigious accolades: the Award of Excellence for Best Guest Experience at the Future of Tourism in Forest and Livelihood Conclave by First India News, and the John Wakefield Memorial Award for Most Inspirational Eco Lodge of the Year in the Rising Star category by TOFT Tigers. These honors underscore the property’s commitment to sustainability and excellence in hospitality.

For more information about the property, packages, and wilderness experiences, visit www.kutanibaghsariska.com or follow them on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TripAdvisor. With Mr. Rathore’s leadership, Kutani Bagh Sariska continues to set new benchmarks in eco-luxury hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar appoints Rahul Mehta as Director of Sales and Marketing

The Leela Gandhinagar appoints Rahul Mehta as Director of Sales and Marketing

By Author

Published on January 20, 2025

The Leela Gandhinagar, in the twin cities of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, has appointed Rahul Mehta as its new Director of Sales and Marketing. With a stellar career spanning over 15 years, Mr. Mehta brings a wealth of experience in sales, marketing and client relationship management.

Mr. Mehta's expertise encompasses strategic sales planning, stakeholder engagement and finance management, supported by a strong analytical mindset and thorough understanding of P&L management. His diverse experience includes leadership roles at renowned hospitality brands such as Novotel Ahmedabad, Park Hyatt Hyderabad and The LaLiT Hotels, Palaces & Resorts. He has also worked extensively in Scotland. Most recently, he served as Associate Director of Executive Education with Ahmedabad University.

Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, said, "We are delighted to welcome Rahul Mehta to The Leela family. His deep understanding of the hospitality industry, coupled with his proven ability to craft innovative sales strategies, will undoubtedly propel The Leela Gandhinagar to new heights of success."

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Mehta said, "I am delighted to be a part of The Leela Gandhinagar. This is a proud moment for me and I look forward to contributing to the continued success of this iconic property and strengthening its position as a premier luxury hospitality destination. I am thankful to The Leela for this opportunity."

Mr. Mehta is a gold medalist with an MBA in International Hospitality and Events Management from IMI, Switzerland. He also holds a BA in International Hospitality Management from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, and a Diploma in Hotel and Catering Management from IIHM, Kolkata.

Beyond his professional commitments, Mr. Mehta has a passion for reading, running, exploring world cuisines and playing volleyball.

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