Fortune Hotels Welcomes Samarth Agarwal as Head of Development

Fortune Hotels Welcomes Samarth Agarwal as Head of Development

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 4, 2024

Fortune Hotels, part of ITC’s hotel group, has announced the appointment of Samarth Agarwal as the new Head of Development. With more than 20 years of experience in hospitality business development, investments, and consulting, Agarwal is set to lead Fortune Hotels through its next growth phase.

Agarwal's career includes roles in equity research focused on the gaming and lodging industry in the USA. He later moved into hotel and real estate consulting at Cushman & Wakefield, where he provided strategic advice to top hotel companies, owners, and developers. He then joined InterGlobe Hotels, a joint venture between Accor Hotels and InterGlobe Enterprises, working on hotel investments. Most recently, he led the Asset Light growth strategy for Lemon Tree Hotels across India, successfully executing over 50 contracts in three years.

As the new Head of Development at Fortune Park Hotels Limited, Agarwal will focus on expanding the network of Fortune-branded hotels across India. Based in Gurgaon, he will manage strategic growth initiatives, form key partnerships, and oversee new developments.

Fortune Hotels believes that Agarwal’s extensive industry experience and visionary leadership will be crucial for the brand’s expansion and success in the competitive hospitality market.

Samarth Agarwal has a diverse background in the hospitality industry. Starting with equity research in the USA, he specialized in the gaming and lodging sectors. He then transitioned to Cushman & Wakefield, providing strategic consulting for leading hotel brands. His move to InterGlobe Hotels involved hotel investments, where he honed his skills in the buy-side of hotel investment deals. At Lemon Tree Hotels, Agarwal led the Asset Light strategy, focusing on management contracts that significantly boosted the company’s growth.

In his new role at Fortune Hotels, Agarwal is expected to leverage his extensive experience to drive the brand’s development efforts. His strategic approach and ability to form effective partnerships are anticipated to play a key role in the brand’s growth.

Fortune Park Hotels Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Ltd, is a leading chain of business and leisure hotels in India. With 66 signed alliances and over 5,000 rooms across 56 cities, Fortune Hotels aims to provide contemporary accommodation for business and leisure travelers, emphasizing personalized service and great value.

The chain operates under various sub-brands like Fortune Select, Fortune Park, Fortune Inn, and Fortune Resort. Each brand is tailored to meet different guest requirements, ensuring a memorable stay.

Under Agarwal’s leadership, Fortune Hotels plans to expand its footprint across India, enhancing its presence in both established and emerging markets. The focus will be on strategic growth initiatives, fostering partnerships, and developing new properties that align with the brand’s philosophy of offering excellent service and value.

Fortune Hotels is confident that with Agarwal at the helm, the brand will continue to grow and succeed in the competitive hospitality sector. His appointment is seen as a pivotal step towards achieving Fortune Hotels’ long-term goals.

For more information about Fortune Hotels, visit itchotels.com/fortunehotels.


Mr. Akshat Arya Appointed as Director of Sales and Marketing at Four Points by Sheraton Nashik

Mr. Akshat Arya Appointed as Director of Sales and Marketing at Four Points by Sheraton Nashik

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 26, 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Mr. Akshat Arya has joined Four Points by Sheraton Nashik as the new Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM). With an impressive career in the hospitality industry, Mr. Arya is poised to bring his vast experience and dynamic leadership to take the hotel's sales and marketing efforts to greater heights.

Known for his mantra, “The only thing standing between you and success is you,” Akshat Arya's rise in the hospitality world has been fueled by passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Starting as an eager trainee, he has swiftly ascended to become a dynamic sales leader with a proven track record of success across various facets of hospitality.

Akshat Arya’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Four Points by Sheraton Nashik, as his visionary leadership is expected to drive the hotel’s strategic sales initiatives and further strengthen its market presence.

About Four Points by Sheraton Nashik

Four Points by Sheraton Nashik is renowned for its exceptional hospitality services and commitment to guest satisfaction. With a focus on providing comfort and convenience, the hotel promises a memorable stay for all visitors.


Udaipur Marriott Hotel Appoints Mohit Mishra as New Executive Chef

Udaipur Marriott Hotel Appoints Mohit Mishra as New Executive Chef

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 26, 2025

Udaipur Marriott Hotel is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mohit Mishra as the new Executive Chef, effective April 24, 2025. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in India’s leading hospitality brands, Chef Mishra brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to his new role.

A graduate of the Culinary Academy of India, Chef Mohit Mishra has worked at prestigious properties like The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa, Taj Deccan Hyderabad, Vivanta Hyderabad Begumpet, and Taj Krishna Hyderabad. His career began at Taj Fort Aguada Resort and Spa in Goa and Taj Lands End in Mumbai, where he refined his culinary techniques and developed a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences.

Chef Mishra is known for his inventive approach to cuisine, emphasizing sustainability, fresh sourcing, and the thoughtful curation of menus. His philosophy centers around crafting culinary experiences that highlight both traditional flavors and contemporary techniques. At Udaipur Marriott Hotel, he will oversee all culinary operations, including menu development, cost control, and ensuring top-notch food safety and preparation standards.

In his new role, Chef Mishra’s vision is to elevate the hotel’s dining offerings, blending Udaipur’s rich culinary heritage with innovative dining experiences that will leave guests with lasting memories. His leadership will play a key role in enhancing the hotel’s diverse and curated culinary experiences, ensuring they reflect the vibrant culture and flavors of the region.

“We are excited to welcome Chef Mohit Mishra to our team,” said Vaibhav Sagar, General Manager of Udaipur Marriott Hotel. “His vast experience and creative culinary artistry align perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. We are confident that his leadership will elevate our culinary offerings and delight our guests.”

Udaipur Marriott Hotel, nestled against the majestic Aravalli Hills and overlooking the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, offers an array of indulgent culinary experiences. Chef Mishra’s appointment will further enhance the hotel’s dedication to culinary excellence, promising guests an elevated dining journey that celebrates the essence of Udaipur’s rich cultural and culinary traditions.


Hyatt Regency Chennai Appoints Mr. Arockiasamy Justin as Security Manager

Hyatt Regency Chennai Appoints Mr. Arockiasamy Justin as Security Manager

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 26, 2025

Hyatt Regency Chennai is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Arockiasamy Justin as the new Security Manager, effective 1st April 2025. With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years, Mr. Justin brings a wealth of experience in security operations, crisis management, fire and life safety, and government liaison.

A former veteran of the Indian Air Force, Mr. Justin has held senior roles in several renowned organizations, including CBRE, Hilton, Infosys Technologies, Phoenix Market City, and DLF Power & Services. His extensive background in security protocol implementation, emergency response, safety training, and CCTV surveillance has equipped him with the skills needed to manage high-risk situations with exceptional professionalism and precision.

Throughout his career, Mr. Justin has demonstrated his ability to lead teams through critical incidents, including bomb threat responses, and has conducted numerous awareness programs to enhance safety knowledge among corporate and community audiences.

Mr. Ruban Das, General Manager at Hyatt Regency Chennai, expressed his confidence in Mr. Justin's appointment, saying, "We are confident that Mr. Justin's leadership, dedication, and wealth of experience will elevate our safety and security standards, ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for all."

Mr. Justin's expertise will be invaluable in further strengthening the hotel's commitment to providing a safe and secure experience for guests and staff alike.

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