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Published on June 3, 2024
In this Exclusive Interview with Dr. Rathnaraj Livingston, we delve into his strategic initiatives at HostBooks, his approach to global business development, and his vision for the future of financial solutions.
Dr. Rathnaraj Livingston's professional career spans various leadership roles across diverse industries. He served as the Chief Business Officer and Director of Global Business at HostBooks, Inc., where he led strategic business initiatives. Prior to this, he held the position of Global Business Head & Senior Director at the same company, contributing significantly to its global expansion. Dr. Livingston holds a Doctorate in Management Studies from the Indian Institution of Business Management & Studies.
Before joining HostBooks, Dr. Livingston worked as the Sales Director at Rain Instant Pay and as the Associate Vice President South Asia at Hotelogix. He also served as the Vice President Sales at Winsar Infosoft Private Limited (WINHMS) and as the VP Sales and Marketing at Interlace India Private Limited. Throughout his career, Dr. Livingston has demonstrated a strong commitment to driving business growth and fostering strategic partnerships.
Can you share some key initiatives you've implemented as Chief Business Officer - HORECA and Director of Global Business at HostBooks that have contributed to the company's growth and success in the Indian financial business?
As the Chief Business Officer - HORECA and Director of Global Business at HostBooks, I have led key initiatives that prioritize the integration of advanced AI-driven analytics to improve financial reporting and decision-making capabilities significantly. This strategic focus has not only streamlined operations but has also enhanced our performance and adaptability in the rapidly evolving Indian financial landscape. Additionally, we have leveraged scalable cloud infrastructures to support a diverse range of customer needs, ensuring robust, secure, and efficient service delivery, which has been crucial for our growth in the financial sector.
How do you approach developing and implementing worldwide business strategies to increase market share, revenue growth, and profitability for HostBooks on a global scale?
In developing and implementing worldwide business strategies for HostBooks, we conduct a meticulous analysis of market trends and customer needs, coupled with an adaptive approach to product development. This strategic method has been instrumental in increasing our market share, boosting revenue growth, and enhancing profitability on a global scale. By focusing on creating flexible, innovative solutions that adapt seamlessly to various market dynamics, we position ourselves as a versatile and reliable partner in the global market.
What methods do you employ to identify and capitalize on new markets, and how do you customize market entrance tactics for different regions and industries?
To identify and capitalize on new markets, we utilize a comprehensive, data-driven approach encompassing detailed market research and competitive analysis. This information guides our customization of market entry tactics, which often involve forming strategic partnerships and adopting innovative distribution methods tailored to meet the specific needs of different regions and industries effectively.
Could you share some examples of successful strategic partnerships or distribution methods you've established to expand HostBooks' global presence?
One key example of our successful strategic partnerships is our collaboration with the hospitality industry to integrate our Business management solutions into their operations. This partnership has enhanced operational processes for our clients and expanded our global presence and market penetration. These strategic alliances are essential in improving our service offerings and facilitating significant growth and expansion into new markets.
Among our valued clients are Royal Orchid, Deltin Hotel, Clarks Hotel, Sagar Ratna, and The Leela.
How do you collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the smooth implementation of foreign business activities across diverse cultural dynamics, such as sales, marketing, operations, and product development?
Ensuring the smooth implementation of our international business activities involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams. We emphasize alignment with local cultures and business practices through regular training and strategic planning sessions. This approach helps us effectively navigate the varied dynamics of international markets and ensures that our team members are well-prepared to manage and execute projects across different cultural backgrounds.
With your extensive experience in various industries and regions, what insights do you bring regarding the unique challenges and opportunities in the BFSI, hospitality, healthcare, and government sectors?
With over 20 years of experience across various sectors including BFSI, hospitality, healthcare, and government, I bring a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities present in these industries. This extensive industry exposure is invaluable in developing customized solutions that address specific sector challenges and enhance operational efficiencies.
In what ways do you leverage technology sales, marketing, and cloud solutions to drive business growth and meet the evolving needs of HostBooks' international clientele?
We leverage cutting-edge technology in sales, marketing, and cloud solutions to ensure that our offerings are not only at the forefront of technological advancements but also intuitive and user-friendly. This strategic use of technology helps meet the evolving needs of our international clientele, driving business growth and ensuring our solutions are both effective and accessible.
Looking ahead, what are your priorities and vision for maximising HostBooks' global presence and delivering outstanding value to customers internationally?
Looking ahead, my priorities involve further enhancing the technological capabilities and market adaptability of HostBooks. Our vision includes expanding our global footprint and continuing to deliver exceptional value to our customers through innovative solutions, responsive customer service, and a commitment to ongoing improvement and excellence in the financial sector. This forward-looking approach is designed to ensure sustained growth and success in the global marketplace.
This Interview is Published Exclusively on hospitalitynews.in.
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Published on November 1, 2025
In the high-octane world of gastronomy, few stories blend humility and achievement quite like that of Chef Jerson Fernandes. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, the Guinness World Record holder and Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India opens up about a journey defined not by fame, but by fortitude.
Today, as one of India’s most respected culinary leaders, his story isn’t just about mastering recipes, it’s about mastering resilience. Before the accolades and White House invitations, there was a young man in a modest kitchen, learning the true value of hard work. Chef Jerson began his journey as a dishwasher, a role that taught him humility, patience, and the discipline that would one day define his leadership.
For most chefs, the dream of cooking for international delegates belongs to fantasy. For Chef Jerson, it became history, twice. Being the only Indian chef to cook for White House delegates on two separate occasions placed Indian flavours at the heart of global diplomacy. His achievements include being named Best Executive Chef of India across seven platforms and winning the Hotelier India Award twice, an unmatched feat in the industry.
Beyond accolades, his philosophy remains deeply human. He believes authenticity is India’s greatest luxury—whether in a simple Goan curry or a contemporary tasting menu. His culinary repertoire has touched the lives of global icons across business, cinema, and sports, yet his focus remains unchanged: connection through food.
As a mentor, leader, and advocate for inclusion, Chef Jerson has trained special needs children, collaborated with the armed forces, and transformed kitchens into spaces of learning. With over 4 million monthly digital impressions, he continues to inspire and educate a generation of young chefs.
It was a privilege speaking with Chef Jerson Fernandes, whose journey proves that true success is born from humility and heart.
Read the complete interview in the November issue of Hospitality News on our website, or get your physical copy to explore his full story.
In an era when luxury is often measured by grandeur, Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, is crafting a new narrative, one where luxury feels human, purposeful, and rooted in culture. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, he delves into how GRT Hotels has evolved into a symbol of Soulful Hospitality, blending design, sustainability, and local storytelling to create experiences that truly connect people with people.
Under his leadership, GRT has not only expanded its footprint across South India but also redefined what modern Indian hospitality can be conscious, inclusive, and deeply experiential. In this featured interview, Vikram shares insights on how the brand’s journey began, the inspiration behind The Great Butterfly Effect, and how initiatives like The Great Being and Great Divine Darshan are shaping wellness and spiritual tourism for the next generation of travelers.
From sustainable operations to promoting women in leadership, and from reimagining the Indian wedding experience with Great Ceremonies to integrating AI for hyper-personalized service, every aspect of GRT’s evolution reflects a balance between innovation and emotion. Vikram’s reflections go beyond business; they reveal a philosophy that hospitality, at its core, is an act of care and connection.
What stands out most in our exchange is his conviction that India’s future in tourism lies in authenticity, in celebrating regional identities while delivering global excellence. It’s a vision that feels both ambitious and deeply grounded.
It was a truly inspiring conversation with Vikram Cotah, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality.
Read the full interview in the November issue of HospitalityNews, available now on our website and don’t miss your chance to grab a physical copy for your collection.
Published on October 1, 2025
In an exclusive feature with October edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, Chef Altamsh Patel, Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, shared insights that reveal not only his passion for gastronomy but also the philosophy that drives his success. His journey is a testament to how unexpected paths often lead to extraordinary destinations.
When asked about his defining moment, Chef Altamsh reflected on his early life where his parents wished for him to become a doctor. Yet, destiny had other plans. Drawn into hotel management and eventually the kitchen of the Taj, he discovered a true sense of belonging. “What began as honoring my parents soon grew into a lifelong love, reminding me that sometimes the unplanned path becomes the one we cherish most,” he shared.
Speaking about innovation and tradition, he noted, “At Hilton Mumbai International Airport, balancing innovation with tradition means sharing a part of our heart with every guest.” To him, food is storytelling, an art that surprises guests while honoring culture.
Chef Altamsh also underlined how food creates cherished memories. Whether in restaurants, banquets, or in-room dining, he and his team strive to ensure every plate carries love, passion, and culture, making each meal unforgettable.
On sustainability, his commitment is firm. From locally sourced ingredients to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose mission, practices like waste-to-fertilizer initiatives, cage-free eggs, and glass bottles redefine responsible luxury dining.
As a mentor, Chef Altamsh believes in nurturing creativity, humility, and resilience among young chefs, ensuring excellence remains a collective effort. Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about India’s micro-cuisines and Peruvian influences, combining authenticity with multi-sensory experiences to shape the future of luxury dining.
It was truly an inspiring and enriching conversation with Chef Altamsh Patel. For the complete feature, explore the Hospitalitynews October Magazine, available on our website (E-Magazine) and as a physical copy.
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