Chef Giuseppe "Pino" Lavarra Appointed as New Culinary Director at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Chef Giuseppe "Pino" Lavarra Appointed as New Culinary Director at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 19, 2024

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, nestled in the captivating Empty Quarter, is delighted to announce the appointment of Italian national Giuseppe "Pino" Lavarra as its new Culinary Director. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Chef Pino, a Michelin-starred chef, brings a new era of culinary excellence and innovation to this iconic desert destination.

Chef Lavarra's culinary journey began with a rigorous three-year program at Ipssar A. Perotti, an esteemed Italian hospitality kitchen management school in Castellana Grotte, Bari, Italy. In 1986, he took on his first role as Chef de Cuisine at The Marina Mandarin Singapore Hotel Group and Penang Mutiara Beach Resort's Restaurant, La Farfalla. Following this, he assumed a leadership position at Palazzo Sasso in Ravello, Italy, with Virgin Group Hotels as Executive Sous Chef.

His career then took him to the acclaimed 2 Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons in Oxford, UK, where he served as Sous Chef from 1998 to 1999. During this time, Chef Lavarra had the notable opportunity to hone his skills under the guidance of Celebrity Chef Raymond Blanc. Continuing his career trajectory, Chef Lavarra joined Park Hyatt The Carlton Tower's Grissini Restaurant in London but returned to Palazzo Sasso with Virgin Group in 2001, where he excelled as Executive Chef until 2013. During this tenure, he led the kitchen to earn 2 Michelin stars at the fine dining restaurant Rossellinis, and managed other outlets including The Lounge & Bar, Room Service, The Beach Club Restaurant, and Selected Banquets events.

In 2013, Chef Lavarra began a new chapter at The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong as the Culinary Director of Tosca Restaurant, where he earned a Michelin star in just six months and held it until 2018. He subsequently held the position of Executive Chef at The Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Doha between August 2018 and 2023. In 2020, he had the honor of being selected to plan, set, and deliver an exquisite dinner for Mr. Mattarella, the President of the Italian Republic, during his visit to Doha.

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Chef Pino's journey also includes notable projects such as leading the opening of Zilos Restaurant in Jeddah earlier this year and contributing as Culinary Coach and Trainer for various international ventures, such as Nolita Restaurant in Naples and Dorothea in Budapest. Moreover, his role on Marriott International's Advisory Board for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa underscores his influence in shaping global culinary standards. His leadership excellence was also showcased during the Qatar FIFA World Cup, where he curated bespoke menus for VIP lounges and exclusive events, solidifying his reputation as a culinary luminary.

Jean-Paul Dantil, General Manager of Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara, commented on this new appointment, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Chef Pino Lavarra to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. His expertise and commitment to culinary innovation align perfectly with our vision of providing exceptional dining experiences amidst the breathtaking desert landscape."

"We are particularly excited about the new restaurant concept he will be leading, set to launch in Q4. Chef Pino is currently immersed in every detail, from menu development to staff training, ensuring that our guests will enjoy a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. We look forward to revealing more details very soon."

Chef Pino's impressive list of accolades includes consecutive Michelin stars, Best Chef honors, 3 Forks Gambero Rosso, and Best Italian Restaurant distinctions. His strategic leadership, wealth of experience, and meticulous approach are expected to elevate the resort's reputation as a premier destination for luxury hospitality and gastronomy.


Alain Debare Joins HVS to Lead Investments and Asset Management in Middle East & Africa

Alain Debare Joins HVS to Lead Investments and Asset Management in Middle East & Africa

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 7, 2024

HVS has appointed Alain Debare as Partner and Head of Investments and Asset Management for the Middle East and Africa region. This move highlights HVS’s commitment to expanding its hotel asset management services in this area.

As a global consulting firm focused on the hospitality sector, HVS offers advisory and asset management services tailored to the unique needs of its clients. Under Debare’s leadership, the new Investments and Asset Management division will provide expert oversight, owner representation, and ongoing asset management with a focus on improving performance and boosting property value.

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Alain Debare brings over 30 years of experience in operations, development, and asset management in the hospitality industry. He has previously worked with major brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Hilton Hotels Corporation, and Action Hotels, where he played a key role in the company's growth and its IPO on the London Stock Exchange. Most recently, he managed real estate portfolios worth over USD 1 billion at Equitativa, a UAE-based fund manager.

Debare’s experience and industry knowledge will be essential as HVS’s Asset Management division aims to deliver strategic guidance throughout the investment lifecycle. The goal is to help independent and institutional investors maximize cash flow and asset value while aligning operational performance with ownership objectives.

“I am excited to join HVS and lead this new initiative in the Middle East & Africa,” said Debare. “With HVS’s expertise and global reach, combined with our deep understanding of the regional market, we will deliver exceptional value to our clients.”

Debare’s experience spans the GCC, Europe, South America, and Asia. His multilingual skills and ability to improve performance in complex business environments position him well to lead HVS’s asset management efforts.

Hala Matar Choufany, President of HVS Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment, saying, “Alain’s expertise and strategic vision will be critical as we continue to expand our services and deliver value to our clients in the region.”


Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram Welcomes Ms. Reeti Soota as Marketing & Communication Manager

Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram Welcomes Ms. Reeti Soota as Marketing & Communication Manager

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 5, 2024

Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms. Reeti Soota as the new Marketing & Communication Manager. In her new role, Reeti will be responsible for overseeing all marketing and communication operations, with a focus on developing innovative strategies to streamline workflows, foster operational growth, and enhance employee experiences.

With 4.5 years of experience in the marketing field, including expertise in digital marketing, Reeti brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the team. She holds a Master's degree from ICFAI, Hyderabad, and has previously worked with multiple renowned brands. Reeti has been part of the IHG Group for 2.5 years, most recently serving as the Marketing & Communication Manager at Holiday Inn Aerocity, New Delhi.

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Her diverse background and extensive experience are expected to contribute significantly to the continued success of Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram. Outside of work, Reeti is passionate about traveling and photography, hobbies that fuel her creativity and drive.

The team at Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram is confident that Reeti will be a great asset to the hotel and looks forward to the fresh perspective and energy she will bring to the role.


Sumi Yashshree Hotels & Resorts Appoints Pinak Ranjan Guha as General Manager Sales & Marketing

Sumi Yashshree Hotels & Resorts Appoints Pinak Ranjan Guha as General Manager Sales & Marketing

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 5, 2024

Sumi Yashshree Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Pinak Ranjan Guha as the new General Manager of Sales & Marketing. With an impressive career spanning over 28 years in the hospitality industry, Pinak brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

Before joining Sumi Yashshree, Pinak was with Mayfair Hotels & Resorts, where he successfully led the Kolkata Sales Team, driving exceptional results. His career also includes significant roles at Kumarakom Lake Resort, Quality Inn Golden Park, Central Hotel, and The HHI Group. His extensive experience across various prestigious brands has equipped him with the skills to excel in his new position.\

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In his role at Sumi Yashshree Hotels & Resorts, Pinak will be responsible for overseeing and leading a dynamic sales and marketing team to achieve the property's revenue goals. His strategic vision and leadership are expected to contribute significantly to the continued growth and success of the brand.

Sumi Yashshree Hotels & Resorts is confident that under Pinak Ranjan Guha’s guidance, the property will reach new heights in the competitive hospitality market.

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