The Fern Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Pratesh Patil as General Manager – Operations for South and East India. In his new role, Patil will oversee the management and operations of the company’s properties across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala.

Patil brings over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, specializing in operations management, team leadership, and business strategy. His appointment comes as The Fern Hotels & Resorts expands its presence in the southern and eastern regions of India. Patil’s focus will be on enhancing operational excellence, delivering exceptional guest experiences, and fostering sustainable practices at the brand’s properties.

Commenting on his appointment, Patil expressed his commitment to aligning operational strategies with The Fern’s core values of luxury and sustainability. He aims to enhance service quality while maintaining the brand’s reputation as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality.

Before joining The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Patil held senior positions with global hospitality giants like Marriott International and Accor Group. His expertise in revenue management, strategic planning, and operational efficiency has consistently contributed to improved profitability and guest satisfaction. Additionally, his experience spans both luxury and business hotel segments, making him a versatile leader in the industry.

Patil’s role will also include aligning the company’s operations with its sustainability goals. The Fern Hotels & Resorts is widely recognized for its commitment to eco-sensitive practices, and Patil’s expertise in sustainable operations aligns perfectly with the brand’s ethos.

This appointment underscores The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to strengthening its operational capabilities while reinforcing its position as a preferred choice for guests seeking a balance of luxury and environmental responsibility.

Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla has announced the appointment of Ritesh Sharma as its new General Manager. With over 23 years of experience in hospitality management, Mr. Sharma is recognized for his strategic leadership and expertise in enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering strong team engagement. This new role marks a homecoming for Mr. Sharma, who previously served as Director of Rooms at the same property, where he played a key role in improving employee engagement and driving operational success.

Prior to rejoining Crowne Plaza, Mr. Sharma successfully led the pre-opening efforts at Holiday Inn Katra Vaishno Devi. Under his leadership, the property quickly achieved a top ranking on TripAdvisor, establishing itself as a preferred choice for travelers. Mr. Sharma also held the position of General Manager at Holiday Inn Express New Delhi International Airport T3, where he was instrumental in achieving multiple awards for operational excellence and high guest satisfaction scores. These accomplishments underscore his dedication to providing quality service and creating a positive impact within the industry.

In his new role, Mr. Sharma aims to build upon the Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla’s reputation for excellence. “I am thrilled to be back at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla,” he shared. “I look forward to working with the talented team here to deliver memorable guest experiences and to drive growth and innovation. Together, we’ll continue to uphold the exceptional service standards and brand values that Crowne Plaza is known for.”

Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla, part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio, is strategically located in South Delhi, close to major business districts and iconic landmarks. Situated approximately 21 kilometers from Indira Gandhi International Airport, the property offers easy access to prominent business hubs, including Okhla Industrial Estate, Jasola, Noida, and Nehru Place. Additionally, its proximity to famous attractions like the Lotus Temple, Red Fort, and Qutab Minar makes it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Known for its commitment to integrated hospitality, Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla provides a blend of comfort and sophistication tailored to the needs of today’s travelers. With Mr. Sharma’s return, the property is poised to further enhance its offerings and continue delivering top-tier experiences for its guests.

Liberty International Tourism Group, a global powerhouse in Destination Management, is thrilled to announce its latest expansion into Australia and New Zealand, solidifying its presence in the dynamic Asia-Pacific region. With a strong reputation for providing bespoke travel experiences, Liberty is poised to cater to the growing demand for premium MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) and luxury leisure travel in these coveted markets.

To lead the charge, Liberty has appointed Grant Charlesworth as CEO of Liberty Australia and Kate Lawry as CEO of Liberty New Zealand, both seasoned experts in the travel and tourism industry.

Grant Charlesworth: CEO, Liberty Australia

With over 20 years of expertise in travel and events, Grant Charlesworth brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his new role. Speaking about his appointment, Charlesworth remarked:
"Australia offers immense potential for MICE and luxury travel, and I’m excited to lead Liberty’s growth in the region."

Kate Lawry: CEO, Liberty New Zealand

With an impressive 30-year career in tourism, Kate Lawry is set to elevate New Zealand’s status as a prime global destination. She expressed her enthusiasm, saying:
"I look forward to delivering world-class experiences and leveraging Liberty’s global network to showcase New Zealand’s unique offerings to travelers worldwide."

Expanding Liberty's Global Footprint

The addition of Australia and New Zealand to Liberty’s global portfolio is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing unmatched services across the world. The new offices will offer tailor-made solutions in MICE, corporate travel, and premium leisure, ensuring travelers receive exceptional service coupled with local expertise.

Mario Enzesberger, founder of Liberty International Tourism Group, highlighted the significance of this expansion:
"We are thrilled to expand our footprint into Australia and New Zealand with Grant and Kate leading the way. Their expertise and passion for these incredible destinations will ensure Liberty delivers the best possible experiences for our clients in the region."

The move aligns with Liberty’s mission of connecting clients to the most sought-after destinations, creating unforgettable journeys, and fostering cultural exchange across continents.

For more details, visit www.liberty-int.com.