Barun Gupta Assumes Role as General Manager of Expo Inn Suites and Convention

Barun Gupta Assumes Role as General Manager of Expo Inn Suites and Convention

By Author

Published on November 10, 2023

In an exciting development, Expo Inn Suites and Convention proudly welcomes Mr. Barun Gupta, affectionately known as "BG" in the contemporary world of hospitality, as its newly appointed General Manager. With an illustrious career spanning international giants such as Accor, Marriott, IHG, and Hyatt, BG brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence to his latest role at Expo Inn Suites and Convention.

Known for his exceptional skills in marketing, operations, and public relations, Barun Gupta has consistently demonstrated an unmatched ability to rejuvenate and elevate hospitality enterprises. Whether it’s devising strategic marketing plans, enhancing products and services, managing finances, or spearheading hotel openings and rebranding initiatives, BG has a proven track record of transforming businesses into thriving and forward-thinking ventures.

BG's success lies in his ability to adapt to the unique styles and values of various hotel chains and his unwavering dedication to delivering top-notch experiences for guests, clients, and owners. He is highly respected for his meticulous planning, intuition, and foresight. Barun's guiding principle is simple but profound: "Don't find customers for your products - find products for your customers." He actively tailors programs, packages, and platforms to meet the distinct needs of his clients.

As a proponent of simplicity and effective communication, BG has effectively harnessed technology and social media to stay ahead in this fast-paced, tech-driven age. He firmly believes that advertising is a crucial tool for connecting with customers, quoting Henry Ford's famous words, "Stopping advertising to save money is like stopping your watch to save time."

Barun Gupta's unwavering quest for uncharted markets and his courage to venture where others haven't have earned him numerous accolades. He has been recognized as one of the 100 most influential figures in the event industry and received honors from Marriott Hotels as the Leader of National Sales. Starwood Hotels awarded him the Gold Star Award, and he has been commended for his exceptional contributions to tourism by the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India.

Mr. Gupta expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, "My latest position as the general manager of Expo Inn Suites and Convention has rekindled my passion for the MICE business. Over the past two decades, this sector has undergone significant changes and has emerged as a prominent player in the world of hospitality."

About Expo Inn Suites and Convention:

Expo Inn Suites and Convention is a highly-acclaimed 134-room business hotel seamlessly integrated within the India Exposition Mart Limited (IEML) in Greater Noida. IEML, established across 58 acres of sprawling land, has been a beacon of excellence for 16 years, receiving two prestigious awards for the best convention center for global business-to-business exhibits, conferences, and more. With a commitment to technology-driven, world-class facilities, and safety standards, IEML continues to innovate and enhance its offerings.


DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad Appoints Kritika Arora as HR Manager

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad Appoints Kritika Arora as HR Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad has appointed Kritika Arora as its new human resources manager, marking a return to the hotel where she previously contributed as training executive and assistant manager, HR & Training. With over a decade of experience spanning leading hospitality brands including Hyatt, IHG, Oberoi, and Pride, Arora brings extensive expertise in building strong organisational cultures, fostering employee engagement, and driving talent development.

Before her appointment, Arora served as learning manager at Hyatt, Ahmedabad, where she led talent and training initiatives that enhanced both organisational performance and employee satisfaction. She holds an MBA in Human Resources from Pune University and has undertaken certifications in leadership, train-the-trainer, POSH, and quality assurance.

Commenting on the appointment, Khizer Khan, Hotel Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad, said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Kritika back to the DoubleTree family. Her proven expertise in HR, coupled with her passion for fostering inclusive and high-performing teams, will play a pivotal role in strengthening our people-first culture.”

Reflecting on her new role, Kritika Arora shared:

“I am excited to return to DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad, a place that has been instrumental in shaping my career. I look forward to building on the hotel’s strong values by creating an environment where people thrive, grow, and deliver exceptional guest experiences.”

With Arora at the helm of HR, the hotel is set to reinforce its commitment to a people-first culture, ensuring team growth and an elevated guest experience across all operations.


Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has announced the appointment of Mariki Sayles as its new Director of Food & Beverage, marking an exciting chapter in the hotel’s culinary evolution. With more than a decade of distinguished international experience spanning India, New York, and beyond, Mariki brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the role.

An award-winning hospitality professional, Mariki was honoured as Mixologist of the Year by The Times of India and served as a judge at ProWine Mumbai 2024, establishing herself as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking F&B leaders. Her diverse experience includes leading beverage operations for Bastian Hospitality’s iconic venues across India, directing transformative consulting projects nationwide, and contributing to the beverage program at New York’s Michelin-starred Le Bernardin.

Throughout her career, Mariki has been recognised for creating and elevating cutting-edge bar and restaurant concepts that blend operational excellence with creative storytelling, crafting experiences that resonate deeply with guests.

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, she will oversee the hotel’s comprehensive food and beverage operations, driving strategy, innovation, and exceptional guest engagement across its acclaimed dining venues, sophisticated banquet facilities, and signature lounges. This appointment underscores the hotel’s dedication to maintaining its leadership position in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Reflecting on her new role, Mariki Sayles shared,

“JW Marriott is synonymous with international standards of excellence, and I am thrilled to contribute to this legacy at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. My vision is to elevate our food and beverage experiences to not only match global benchmarks but also redefine them for the Mumbai market, curating concepts that are innovative, immersive, and unforgettable.”

With her creative vision, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic insight, Mariki’s leadership is set to enhance JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s culinary identity, reaffirming its reputation as the Gateway to Mumbai and a true pioneer of hospitality excellence.


Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

GRT Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Vijaya Kumar as the General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the group’s flagship property. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Kumar brings a wealth of expertise in operations, culinary innovation, and sustainable hospitality practices.

Kumar’s promotion to General Manager marks a significant internal advancement within GRT Hotels & Resorts. He previously served as Cluster Director of Food & Beverage, leading operations across Radisson franchise GRT hotels, and has contributed 17 years of dedicated service to the group across multiple properties. His experience also includes tenures with renowned brands such as Taj, ITC, and SRM Hotels.

Passionate about community impact, Kumar has spearheaded initiatives like Chef Amudhupadai, a program to feed underprivileged children, collaborated with local farmers for organic produce, introduced Braille menus and allergen-friendly dining, and trained differently-abled individuals in hospitality and bakery sectors.

Commenting on the appointment, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said:

“We are delighted to appoint Mr. Vijaya Kumar as General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels. His journey reflects our commitment to nurturing talent from within. Beginning his career as a professional chef, he combines culinary creativity with operational insight, equipping him with a deep understanding of guest experience and hospitality operations. Under his stewardship, Grand Chennai will continue to set new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and brand excellence.”

Speaking about his new role, Vijaya Kumar added:

“It is a privilege to lead Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the flagship property of a brand that has set benchmarks in Indian hospitality for nearly three decades. My focus will be on crafting meaningful guest experiences, championing sustainability, and creating a destination that truly reflects the essence of GRT Hotels. Together with my team, I look forward to carrying this tradition forward while setting new standards for excellence.”

Kumar holds a diploma in hotel management from IHM Chennai, alongside multiple postgraduate degrees including an MBA in Human Resources, MA in Public Administration, and a Master’s in Tourism Management. He is also certified in ISO 22000, AHLA programs, and is an accredited trainer and auditor.

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