Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway has announced the appointment of K.L. Ramakrishnan as Director of Engineering, further strengthening its operational and technical leadership.

With over 14 years of experience in hospitality engineering, Ramakrishnan brings deep expertise in technical operations, project management, and sustainability-driven initiatives. In his new role, he will oversee the hotel’s engineering functions, including maintenance of plant and machinery, energy management, safety systems, and infrastructure efficiency.

He will also play a key role in ensuring seamless operations across all technical areas while enhancing guest comfort and maintaining high standards of operational excellence.

Prior to joining Sheraton Grand Bangalore, he served as Director of Engineering at Taj Skyline Ahmedabad, where he led engineering operations for a luxury property. His professional journey also includes key roles with leading hospitality brands such as Marriott International, Accor, The Leela Hotels & Resorts, and The Lalit.

Notably, he has managed multi-property engineering operations at Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield by Marriott, showcasing his capability in handling large-scale and complex hospitality environments.

Over the course of his career, Ramakrishnan has led several major projects, including plant upgrades, energy optimisation initiatives, and post-pandemic restoration of critical engineering systems. His expertise spans HVAC systems, fire and life safety, water treatment, and preventive maintenance, with a strong focus on sustainability practices such as energy conservation and efficient resource management.

Welcoming him to the team, Sushma Khichar said, “We are pleased to welcome Ramakrishnan to the team. His deep technical expertise, hands-on approach, and proven track record in managing complex engineering operations will be instrumental in maintaining our high standards of efficiency, safety and guest comfort.”

With his extensive technical knowledge and leadership experience, the hotel aims to further strengthen its engineering capabilities and continue delivering seamless guest experiences.

The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata has announced the appointment of Ayan Halder as its new Hotel Manager, bringing over 16 years of experience in luxury hospitality operations and guest experience management.

In his new role, Halder will oversee the hotel’s overall operations, with a strong focus on enhancing guest experiences, strengthening operational excellence, and driving service innovation at one of Kolkata’s most iconic heritage hospitality destinations.

Prior to this appointment, he held key leadership roles with Marriott International, most recently serving as Unit Head – Property Leader in Kochi. He also worked as Director of Rooms Operations at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, where he played a pivotal role in driving guest satisfaction, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing revenue performance across departments.

His professional journey also includes experience with globally renowned hospitality brands such as Taj Hotels and The Oberoi Group. Across these roles, Halder has built a strong reputation for delivering guest-centric service, developing high-performing teams, and driving operational innovation.

Recognised for his contributions to the industry, he has received several accolades, including the Hotelier of the Year – Head of Accommodation at the BW Hotelier Awards 2023, along with multiple recognitions for achieving exceptional guest experience scores and operational performance.

Commenting on his appointment, Halder said, “It is an honour to join The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata, a property that holds immense historical and cultural significance in the city’s hospitality landscape. I look forward to working closely with the team to deliver memorable guest experiences, strengthen operational excellence, and optimize revenue performance while preserving the hotel’s rich heritage. I am also committed to upholding the strong Diversity, Equity and Inclusion ethos that The LaLiT stands for, fostering an environment where every team member feels respected, valued, and empowered.”

An alumnus of Institute of Hotel Management Kolkata, he also holds an MBA from Indian School of Business Management Kolkata, further strengthening his expertise in hospitality leadership and business strategy.

With his extensive operational experience and passion for service excellence, Ayan Halder’s appointment is expected to further reinforce the hotel’s position as one of Kolkata’s most distinguished hospitality destinations.

W Goa has announced the appointment of Nishal Seebaluck as its new General Manager, further strengthening its leadership team in the luxury hospitality space.

With over 18 years of experience across ultra-luxury hotels and destination resorts in India, Mauritius, and Morocco, Nishal brings a strong blend of operational expertise, strategic thinking, and guest-centric leadership. Known for elevating brand positioning and driving performance, he has consistently delivered impactful results in competitive luxury markets.

An alumnus of the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, Nishal began his career in finance at The Oberoi Beach Resort before transitioning into operations, where he discovered his passion for hospitality. Over the years, he has held key leadership roles across renowned properties including The Oberoi Marrakech and The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore.

During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in strengthening brand identity, enhancing profitability, and driving market-leading performance. His contributions have also been instrumental in achieving industry recognition, including awards such as Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards and global rankings by Condé Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor.

Most recently serving as Hotel Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, Nishal now steps into his new role at W Goa, where he is expected to lead the property’s operations, enhance guest experiences, and further strengthen its position as a leading luxury lifestyle destination.

Beyond his professional journey, Nishal is known for his passion for travel, food, and cultural exploration, bringing a creative and globally inspired perspective that aligns seamlessly with W Goa’s bold and expressive identity.