George Bennet Kuruvilla Wins General Manager of the Year Award

George Bennet Kuruvilla Wins General Manager of the Year Award

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 25, 2024

Hotelivate’s 19th Hotel Investment Conference South Asia (HICSA) recently concluded, marking a significant event for the hospitality industry. Among the highlights was the prestigious MakeMyTrip General Manager of the Year Awards, recognizing exceptional leadership and excellence. Held from April 2nd to 4th, 2024, HICSA brought together industry leaders, including Sébastian Bazin, Mark S. Hoplamazian, and Federico J. González.

This year, George Bennet Kuruvilla of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, emerged as the recipient of the General Manager of the Year Award in the Luxury category. Kuruvilla's leadership and dedication have played a pivotal role in solidifying The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore’s position as a sought-after luxury destination known for its impeccable service and immersive experiences.

The MakeMyTrip General Manager of the Year Awards not only acknowledge outstanding talent but also drive the industry forward by inspiring excellence. This recognition serves as a testament to the remarkable contributions of individuals like Kuruvilla, shaping the future of the Indian hospitality landscape.

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The conference also honored industry veterans, with Kapil Bhatia receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for his remarkable career journey. With over 725 attendees, HICSA 2024 exceeded expectations, signaling a promising recovery for the industry and highlighting the resilience of hospitality professionals.

As the curtains closed on HICSA 2024, the engaging ‘Hot Seat Debate’ moderated by Manav Thadani brought insightful discussions to the forefront, marking the end of an inspiring and successful event.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Bangalore. The hotel features 277 rooms and suites, as well as seven award-winning restaurants and bars. The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore is the perfect place to relax and indulge in luxury. Visit our website at ritzcarlton.com/Bangalore.In addition, connect with us on @ritzcarltonbangalore on Facebook and @ritzcarlton.bangalore on Instagram.


The Westin Goa Appoints Preeti Mittoo as Director of Sales and Marketing

The Westin Goa Appoints Preeti Mittoo as Director of Sales and Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 18, 2025

The Westin Goa has announced the appointment of Preeti Mittoo as its new director of sales and marketing. With more than 18 years of expertise across luxury, business, and lifestyle hospitality brands, Mittoo brings a strong track record of leading teams, driving growth, and creating guest-focused experiences.

She began her career with ITC Hotels and The Oberoi Group, where she developed a strong foundation in hospitality sales. Most recently, she served as general manager, sales, North India at Lemon Tree & Aurika Hotels, successfully leading sales strategies for 32 hotels and spearheading the launch of their luxury brand.

This appointment marks her first role with Marriott International. At The Westin Goa, Mittoo’s focus will be on positioning the resort as a destination of choice in Goa while building on Westin’s wellness-infused philosophy and the vibrant spirit of the region. She envisions establishing the property as the benchmark for wellness-driven luxury in India.

Mittoo believes that true success goes beyond filling rooms, it lies in curating soulful, memorable moments that inspire guest loyalty. A strong advocate of teamwork and guest-centric hospitality, her leadership mantra is: “Inspire, empower and stay customer-obsessed, because both teams and guests thrive when genuine care is at the core.”

Welcoming her to the team, Harish Gopalakrishnan, general manager, The Westin Goa, said: “We are delighted to welcome Preeti Mittoo to The Westin Goa family! With her talent and experience, we are confident that together we will curate trend-setting, soulful experiences that position the resort as the benchmark for wellness travel in India.”

Through her new role, Preeti Mittoo aims to blend strategy with empathy, ensuring The Westin Goa remains a leader in Goa’s luxury and wellness hospitality landscape.


Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Appoints Henna Punjabi as Director of Public Relations and Communications

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Appoints Henna Punjabi as Director of Public Relations and Communications

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 18, 2025

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai has announced the appointment of Henna Punjabi as its new Director of Public Relations and Communications.

Henna brings a wealth of experience in marketing and communications, with a proven track record in building impactful brand narratives and executing campaigns that resonate with both guests and media. She has been recognised with the Marketing Team of the Year award at the Marriott International APEC Elite Awards 2024 and was named Runner-Up for Marketing & PR Person of the Year at the Hotelier India Awards, reflecting her excellence in the field.

In her new role, Henna will lead the hotel’s communications and brand positioning strategy, including media relations, integrated marketing, and high-impact campaigns. Her expertise in combining creativity with strategic insight will help amplify Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai’s visibility as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Commenting on the appointment, Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, said: “Henna brings with her not just experience, but a true passion for building connections through storytelling. We are delighted to welcome her to Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai and look forward to the energy, creativity, and fresh perspective she will bring to our communications journey.”

With Henna Punjabi on board, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai continues to reinforce its commitment to excellence, where service, storytelling, and brand presence reflect the timeless elegance of the Four Seasons brand.


Treat Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership With Two Key Appointments in Nashik & Sambhajinagar

Treat Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership With Two Key Appointments in Nashik & Sambhajinagar

By Hariharan U

Published on September 17, 2025

Treat Hotels & Resorts has announced two significant leadership appointments, further strengthening its team as the brand continues to grow its presence in Nashik and Sambhajinagar.

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Mr. Rahuul Jaggiasi has been named Cluster General Manager – Nashik & Sambhajinagar. With over 20 years of experience, he is recognised for his expertise in brand building, pre-openings, operations, and luxury guest experiences. An alumnus of IHM-Aurangabad, affiliated with Huddersfield University, UK, Rahuul began his career with the Taj Group of Hotels. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with Lemon Tree Hotels, Pride Group of Hotels, Marriott International, Concept Hospitality, ITC Hotels’ Mementos Ekaaya Udaipur, and Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur. Most recently, he was associated with Foodlink F&B Holdings, where he focused on expanding luxury catering and experiential dining in South India. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening operations, driving strategic growth, and enhancing guest experiences across the Nashik and Sambhajinagar properties.

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Alongside this, Mr. Parikshit Shouche has been appointed as General ManagerSales, Nashik Region. With 21 years of experience in hospitality sales, Parikshit has developed strong expertise in revenue generation and market expansion. An alumnus of MGV’s College of Hotel Management & Technologies, Nashik, he also holds a B.A. in History. He began his career with Taj Residency and went on to work with Ginger Hotels and Express Inn. At Ibis Nashik, he served for more than a decade in multiple roles, eventually becoming Director of Sales. Most recently, he was associated with Courtyard by Marriott as Director of Sales & Marketing. In his new position, he will lead sales strategies, strengthen market presence, and drive business growth for Treat Hotels & Resorts.

These appointments mark a strategic step for Treat Hotels & Resorts as it builds a robust leadership team to deliver exceptional hospitality and further its vision for growth in key markets.

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