Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park Appoint C. Manikandan as Director of Engineering

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park Appoint C. Manikandan as Director of Engineering

By Hariharan U

Published on September 11, 2025

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park have announced the appointment of C. Manikandan as Director of Engineering. With over 14 years of experience in hotel engineering, Manikandan will now oversee the operations of the landmark dual-branded property and one of South India’s largest convention centers.

Manikandan brings a strong track record from leading luxury hotels in Bengaluru. He previously served as Director of Engineering at Taj Yeshwantpur and Shangri-La Bengaluru, where he was part of the pre-opening team. Earlier in his career, he also worked with Hilton Bengaluru Residences as Engineering Executive and The Leela Palace Bengaluru as Shift Engineer. His expertise lies in combining operational efficiency with sustainable practices, ensuring hotels run seamlessly while reducing environmental impact.

Known for his forward-thinking approach, Manikandan has spearheaded several innovative projects. These include implementing IoT-enabled building management systems, energy-saving initiatives, and commissioning an in-house water bottling plant to cut down on single-use plastics. These efforts not only improved efficiency and delivered cost savings but also reinforced sustainable practices across hotel operations.

On his appointment, Manikandan said,“Joining Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn at Embassy Manyata is a unique opportunity. This property is a hub of both scale and vision, and I look forward to enhancing the engineering systems with a relentless focus on safety, guest comfort, and sustainability. My goal is to ensure our operations don’t just meet global standards—they set new benchmarks for efficiency and responsibility.”

Welcoming him, Manish Garg, General Manager, commented,“We are thrilled to welcome Manikandan to our leadership team. His deep expertise in sustainable engineering and large-scale operations is a tremendous asset. His appointment strengthens our commitment to innovation and ensures every guest experience is seamless and supported by the highest standards of safety and excellence.”

In his new role, Manikandan will lead preventive maintenance programs, drive energy efficiency projects, and ensure the upkeep of guest facilities and the expansive convention center. His leadership is expected to play a vital role in aligning the property’s operations with Hilton’s global focus on sustainability and guest satisfaction.

About Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

Part of Hilton’s global portfolio of 18 world-class brands, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn at Embassy Manyata opened in 2022. With more than 60,000 sq. ft. of convention space, the property is among South India’s largest hotel complexes. Strategically located close to the airport and within walking distance of Manyata Business Park, the hotels combine world-class hospitality with exceptional connectivity, making them a preferred choice for both business and leisure travellers.


DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad Appoints Kritika Arora as HR Manager

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad Appoints Kritika Arora as HR Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad has appointed Kritika Arora as its new human resources manager, marking a return to the hotel where she previously contributed as training executive and assistant manager, HR & Training. With over a decade of experience spanning leading hospitality brands including Hyatt, IHG, Oberoi, and Pride, Arora brings extensive expertise in building strong organisational cultures, fostering employee engagement, and driving talent development.

Before her appointment, Arora served as learning manager at Hyatt, Ahmedabad, where she led talent and training initiatives that enhanced both organisational performance and employee satisfaction. She holds an MBA in Human Resources from Pune University and has undertaken certifications in leadership, train-the-trainer, POSH, and quality assurance.

Commenting on the appointment, Khizer Khan, Hotel Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad, said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Kritika back to the DoubleTree family. Her proven expertise in HR, coupled with her passion for fostering inclusive and high-performing teams, will play a pivotal role in strengthening our people-first culture.”

Reflecting on her new role, Kritika Arora shared:

“I am excited to return to DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad, a place that has been instrumental in shaping my career. I look forward to building on the hotel’s strong values by creating an environment where people thrive, grow, and deliver exceptional guest experiences.”

With Arora at the helm of HR, the hotel is set to reinforce its commitment to a people-first culture, ensuring team growth and an elevated guest experience across all operations.


Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has announced the appointment of Mariki Sayles as its new Director of Food & Beverage, marking an exciting chapter in the hotel’s culinary evolution. With more than a decade of distinguished international experience spanning India, New York, and beyond, Mariki brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the role.

An award-winning hospitality professional, Mariki was honoured as Mixologist of the Year by The Times of India and served as a judge at ProWine Mumbai 2024, establishing herself as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking F&B leaders. Her diverse experience includes leading beverage operations for Bastian Hospitality’s iconic venues across India, directing transformative consulting projects nationwide, and contributing to the beverage program at New York’s Michelin-starred Le Bernardin.

Throughout her career, Mariki has been recognised for creating and elevating cutting-edge bar and restaurant concepts that blend operational excellence with creative storytelling, crafting experiences that resonate deeply with guests.

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, she will oversee the hotel’s comprehensive food and beverage operations, driving strategy, innovation, and exceptional guest engagement across its acclaimed dining venues, sophisticated banquet facilities, and signature lounges. This appointment underscores the hotel’s dedication to maintaining its leadership position in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Reflecting on her new role, Mariki Sayles shared,

“JW Marriott is synonymous with international standards of excellence, and I am thrilled to contribute to this legacy at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. My vision is to elevate our food and beverage experiences to not only match global benchmarks but also redefine them for the Mumbai market, curating concepts that are innovative, immersive, and unforgettable.”

With her creative vision, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic insight, Mariki’s leadership is set to enhance JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s culinary identity, reaffirming its reputation as the Gateway to Mumbai and a true pioneer of hospitality excellence.


Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

GRT Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Vijaya Kumar as the General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the group’s flagship property. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Kumar brings a wealth of expertise in operations, culinary innovation, and sustainable hospitality practices.

Kumar’s promotion to General Manager marks a significant internal advancement within GRT Hotels & Resorts. He previously served as Cluster Director of Food & Beverage, leading operations across Radisson franchise GRT hotels, and has contributed 17 years of dedicated service to the group across multiple properties. His experience also includes tenures with renowned brands such as Taj, ITC, and SRM Hotels.

Passionate about community impact, Kumar has spearheaded initiatives like Chef Amudhupadai, a program to feed underprivileged children, collaborated with local farmers for organic produce, introduced Braille menus and allergen-friendly dining, and trained differently-abled individuals in hospitality and bakery sectors.

Commenting on the appointment, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said:

“We are delighted to appoint Mr. Vijaya Kumar as General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels. His journey reflects our commitment to nurturing talent from within. Beginning his career as a professional chef, he combines culinary creativity with operational insight, equipping him with a deep understanding of guest experience and hospitality operations. Under his stewardship, Grand Chennai will continue to set new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and brand excellence.”

Speaking about his new role, Vijaya Kumar added:

“It is a privilege to lead Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the flagship property of a brand that has set benchmarks in Indian hospitality for nearly three decades. My focus will be on crafting meaningful guest experiences, championing sustainability, and creating a destination that truly reflects the essence of GRT Hotels. Together with my team, I look forward to carrying this tradition forward while setting new standards for excellence.”

Kumar holds a diploma in hotel management from IHM Chennai, alongside multiple postgraduate degrees including an MBA in Human Resources, MA in Public Administration, and a Master’s in Tourism Management. He is also certified in ISO 22000, AHLA programs, and is an accredited trainer and auditor.

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