Atul Bhalla Appointed Vice President Operations at ITC Hotels

Atul Bhalla Appointed Vice President Operations at ITC Hotels

By Author

Published on October 26, 2023

In a recent organizational development, Atul Bhalla has taken on a new role as Vice President of Operations for ITC Hotels' North & West region. With almost three decades of experience within the ITC Hotels family, Atul's journey takes a strategic turn as he works from New Delhi.

Atul Bhalla's responsibilities encompass driving operational excellence across a diverse portfolio of lifestyle and luxury brand properties. He will also provide essential support for upcoming projects, all while focusing on an asset-right growth strategy for the brand.

As a key member of ITC Hotels' leadership team, Atul has donned various senior management roles during his impressive tenure with the organization. His role as Vice President of Operations- North & West, ITC Hotels India, reflects a commitment to creating and executing a strategic roadmap in collaboration with the Divisional Chief Executive, General Managers, and functional heads. The ultimate goal is to enhance stakeholder value, whether for owned, managed, or franchise properties, while continuing to strengthen the brand's equity.

Atul's journey with the group commenced in 1998 at ITC Kakatiya, Hyderabad, and since then, he has held various senior management positions at multiple ITC Hotels locations, including Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai. But it's not all work and no play; Atul enjoys his downtime on the golf course, striving to improve his handicap, or seeking adventure off-road with his stick-shifts.

Notable highlights from his tenure include the successful launch of ITC Royal Bengal, the 14th luxury hotel under the ITC brand in India, and his pivotal role in managing the complex operations at ITC Sonar. Atul was also a key player in the pre-opening phase of ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, two of ITC Hotels' most significant and grandest properties. His recent accomplishments include the successful inception and launch of the newest lifestyle brands, Storii & Mementos, from the ITC group.


Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate Appoints Chef Hemant Bisht as Head Chef

Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate Appoints Chef Hemant Bisht as Head Chef

By Hariharan U

Published on June 20, 2026

Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate has announced the appointment of Chef Hemant Bisht as its new Head Chef, marking a significant step in the brand’s evolution from a specialty coffee and bean-to-bar chocolate destination into a comprehensive café, restaurant, and bar concept.

With more than 13 years of experience across luxury hospitality and premium dining establishments, Chef Hemant will lead culinary operations across Savorworks’ GK2 and Gurgaon outlets. He will also play a key role in shaping the brand’s long-term expansion strategy as it prepares to strengthen its presence across India.

Chef Hemant brings extensive experience from leading hospitality brands, including InterContinental Chennai, Indigo Hospitality, Passcode Hospitality’s SAZ, and Mesa Kitchen & Bar. His expertise spans menu development, kitchen operations, team leadership, and culinary innovation.

At Savorworks, his focus will be on enhancing the food programme while working closely with the coffee, chocolate, bakery, and beverage teams to create a cohesive dining experience. Beyond day-to-day operations, he will contribute to building scalable culinary systems, mentoring teams, and ensuring consistency across future outlets.

Commenting on the appointment, Baninder Singh, Founder of Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate, said the company has been working towards elevating its food offerings alongside its established coffee and chocolate programmes. He added that Chef Hemant’s experience in modern dining and culinary concept development makes him the ideal leader for the next phase of growth.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Chef Hemant said he looks forward to contributing to the brand’s vision of quality, creativity, and craftsmanship. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, consistency, and continuous learning in delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Founded in 2019 by coffee roaster Baninder Singh and chocolatier Paweena Withyasathien Kochar, Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate has built a strong reputation for its specialty coffee, artisanal chocolates, and immersive café experiences. The appointment of Chef Hemant reflects the brand’s commitment to further strengthening its culinary identity as it expands its footprint across India.


The Forum Hotel & Convention Expands Vikas Khazanchi’s Role as Vice President – Operations

The Forum Hotel & Convention Expands Vikas Khazanchi’s Role as Vice President – Operations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2026

The Forum Hotel & Convention and Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela have announced an expanded leadership role for Vikas Khazanchi, who has been associated with the group for the past eight years. As Vice President – Operations, he will now oversee operations across both properties, supporting the group's continued focus on operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and sustainable growth.

With more than three decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Khazanchi has held leadership positions at several well-known hospitality destinations across Gujarat. Over the years, he has built expertise in commercial strategy, revenue optimization, market development, organizational leadership, and hotel operations, helping drive strong business performance and service standards.

In his expanded role, Khazanchi will lead key strategic initiatives across The Forum Hotel & Convention and Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela. His responsibilities will include improving operational efficiency, driving revenue growth, developing talent, and further enhancing guest experiences across both properties.

Speaking on the appointment, Kalpesh Prajapati, Managing Director, The Forum Hotel & Convention, said, "Vikas has been an integral part of our journey over the years, and this expanded leadership role reflects the confidence we have in his leadership, industry understanding, and ability to drive strong performance across teams and operations. As the hospitality landscape continues to evolve, agility, service consistency, and talent development have become increasingly important. We are confident Vikas will play a key role in strengthening both properties and supporting their next phase of growth."

Commenting on his appointment, Vikas Khazanchi, Vice President – Operations, said, "Both properties have earned strong reputations for quality, service, and consistency. My focus will be on building on these strengths, refining operational processes, and ensuring teams are empowered to deliver their best every day. Guest experience is ultimately shaped by the culture behind it, and that will remain a key area of focus for me."

A Hotel Management graduate, Khazanchi also holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Hospitality from IGNOU. His leadership philosophy focuses on continuous improvement, employee development, responsible business practices, and creating long-term value for guests, team members, and stakeholders.

Together, The Forum Hotel & Convention and Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela offer a combined inventory of 387 rooms, serving business and leisure travellers as well as corporate events, conventions, weddings, and social gatherings in Ahmedabad.


Didier Jardin Appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Bali

Didier Jardin Appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Bali

By Hariharan U

Published on June 19, 2026

Didier Jardin has been appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Bali, where he will oversee the operations and strategic direction of the brand’s two celebrated properties: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay and Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan.

Bringing more than 30 years of experience with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Didier is recognised for his people-first leadership style, operational excellence, and commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences. His appointment follows a successful tenure at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, where he played a key role in enhancing the resort’s wellness offerings, family experiences, and community-driven initiatives.

In his new role, Didier will lead both Bali properties, each known for its distinctive connection to Balinese culture, spirituality, and wellbeing. While Jimbaran Bay offers a vibrant beachfront retreat, Sayan is celebrated for its serene riverside setting and immersive wellness experiences.

Commenting on his vision, Didier highlighted the importance of emotional connection in modern luxury hospitality. He noted that Bali’s unique blend of community, culture, and natural beauty provides an opportunity to create experiences that leave a lasting impact on guests while fostering an inspiring environment for employees.

Didier’s journey with Four Seasons began in 1994 at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Since then, his career has taken him across some of the world’s most sought-after destinations, including Bora Bora, Mauritius, New York, Cairo, and Kuwait. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for cultivating strong team cultures rooted in trust, empathy, and professional growth.

Originally from France’s Loire Valley, Didier has long been passionate about travel and cultural discovery. Together with his family, he now begins a new chapter in Bali, a destination he has admired for its artistry, warmth, and deep sense of community.

Under his leadership, Four Seasons Resorts Bali aims to further strengthen its position as one of Asia’s premier luxury hospitality destinations, offering immersive experiences that blend authentic Balinese traditions with contemporary luxury.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.