Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre Appoints Abishek Chandran as Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications

Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre Appoints Abishek Chandran as Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 25, 2025

Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre has announced the appointment of Abishek Chandran as the Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications. With over 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including a significant tenure at Hilton, Chandran has built a reputation for successfully executing marketing strategies that enhance brand visibility and drive business growth.

Leading Marketing & Communications Across the Cluster

In his new role, Chandran will oversee marketing and communication strategies across the cluster, working closely with the cluster commercial director, general managers, and Hilton brand teams. His responsibilities include developing and executing innovative campaigns, strengthening brand positioning, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders to enhance Hilton Gurugram’s market presence.

This marks Chandran’s second pre-opening experience, adding to his expertise in launching and establishing new properties. His deep understanding of brand management, high-performing campaigns, and guest engagement strategies has played a pivotal role in strengthening Hilton’s market presence and driving revenue growth.

Driving Hilton’s Key Campaigns & Brand Presence

Chandran’s contributions extend beyond the individual property, as he actively collaborates with the Hilton corporate office to conceptualize and implement marketing rollouts across the region. Some of his notable projects include “It’s Ok” and “Wedding Diaries by Hilton”, which have reinforced Hilton’s brand identity and customer engagement.

Leadership Acknowledgment

Welcoming Chandran to his new role, Harkaran Singh, General Manager, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre, shared:
"We are thrilled to appoint Abishek Chandran as our Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications. His passion for excellence and deep industry knowledge will be instrumental in driving our marketing initiatives and further strengthening our brand presence in the region."

Expressing his enthusiasm, Abishek Chandran said:
"I am honored to take on this role at Hilton. Hilton’s legacy of innovation and excellence inspires me, and I look forward to collaborating with our talented teams to create impactful campaigns that elevate our brand. Together, we will continue delivering exceptional guest experiences and reinforcing Hilton’s leadership in the hospitality industry."

With Chandran at the helm of marketing and communications, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre is poised to enhance its brand visibility and guest engagement, further solidifying its presence in the Indian hospitality landscape.

Congratulations to Abishek Chandran on this new leadership role!


MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts Appoints Varun Mehrotra as AVP – Sales & Marketing

MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts Appoints Varun Mehrotra as AVP – Sales & Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 29, 2025

MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts has appointed Varun Mehrotra as Assistant Vice President – Sales & Marketing at its Corporate Office, further strengthening its leadership team. With over 23 years of experience in sales leadership, strategic marketing, revenue optimization, and brand positioning, Varun’s expertise will be instrumental in expanding MAYFAIR’s market presence and driving business growth.

His career in hospitality began with Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, a globally recognized luxury brand, and he has since contributed to shaping sales and marketing strategies for prestigious hotel chains, including The Leela, Zuri Hotels & Resorts Ltd, Ista Hotels, Accor Group Fairmont Jaipur, and Khyathi Solutions. His deep understanding of market trends, revenue management, and brand positioning has consistently delivered sustained growth and competitive advantages.

In his new role at MAYFAIR, Varun will lead performance-driven sales and marketing strategies focused on expanding market reach, optimizing sales channels, leveraging data-driven insights, and strengthening high-revenue segments such as MICE and destination weddings. He will also foster strategic alliances, enhance brand positioning, and drive digital transformation through innovative marketing campaigns. Recognized for his strategic thinking and results-oriented approach, his leadership will play a key role in scaling MAYFAIR’s commercial success.

With a strong emphasis on revenue growth, digital marketing, and customer-centric strategies, Varun’s appointment marks an exciting phase of expansion and competitive excellence for MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts. His expertise will reinforce MAYFAIR’s position as a premier luxury hospitality brand, ensuring sustained growth and market leadership in the industry.


Mainak Ray Joins JW Marriott Kolkata as Director of Sales & Marketing

Mainak Ray Joins JW Marriott Kolkata as Director of Sales & Marketing

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 28, 2025

JW Marriott Kolkata is delighted to announce the appointment of Mainak Ray as the Director of Sales & Marketing. With over a decade of experience in luxury hospitality sales, Mainak brings a strong strategic vision and a proven track record in revenue growth, brand positioning, and guest engagement.

A Dynamic Leader with Global Experience

A University of Calcutta alumnus, Mainak pursued a Master’s in International Management from the University of Sussex, UK. He started his career with Lebara Mobile UK before transitioning into hospitality, taking on key sales and marketing roles at Hyatt, Accor, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, and Marriott International. His expertise spans multiple cities and market segments, making him well-equipped to lead JW Marriott Kolkata’s growth strategy.

Key Responsibilities & Vision

In his new role, Mainak will oversee the hotel’s sales, marketing, and revenue operations, with a focus on:

  • Strategic growth & brand positioning
  • Optimizing room and event revenue
  • Curating unique F&B initiatives
  • Enhancing guest engagement & market presence

Expressing his excitement about joining JW Marriott Kolkata, Mainak Ray shared:
"I am deeply honored to be part of JW Marriott Kolkata, a hotel that exemplifies luxury, innovation, and guest-centricity. I look forward to working with the exceptional team here to drive growth and craft unforgettable experiences for our guests."

Sunil Kumar, General Manager of JW Marriott Kolkata, added:
"We are delighted to welcome Mainak Ray to the JW Marriott Kolkata family. His expertise, strategic acumen, and leadership will be invaluable in propelling the hotel’s growth and reinforcing its position as a leader in luxury hospitality."

JW Marriott Kolkata – A Luxury Icon in the City of Joy

Recognized as Kolkata’s #1 hotel on TripAdvisor, JW Marriott Kolkata seamlessly blends elegance, world-class service, and exceptional dining. Home to 2:Fifty9, one of India’s Top 100 Bars, the hotel is a sought-after destination for luxury experiences, weddings, and corporate events.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Mainak Ray is passionate about travel, global cuisines, and soccer. His leadership is set to further strengthen JW Marriott Kolkata’s legacy of excellence in luxury hospitality.


Seema Taj Elevated to Director of Sales and Marketing at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore

Seema Taj Elevated to Director of Sales and Marketing at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 28, 2025

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore has announced the promotion of Seema Taj to Director of Sales and Marketing. In her new role, she will spearhead strategic initiatives to enhance the hotel’s market presence, drive business expansion, and strengthen key partnerships, ensuring its position as a premier choice for business and leisure travelers.

With an impressive career spanning 23 years in the hospitality industry, Seema has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, operational expertise, and a deep understanding of market dynamics. She started her journey as an Airport Sales Executive, later taking on leadership roles in Front Office and Banquet Management before transitioning into strategic sales and marketing functions.

A Proven Leader in Hospitality Sales

Since joining Sheraton Grand Palace Indore in 2019 as Associate Director of Sales, Seema has played a pivotal role in revenue optimization, customer engagement, and business strategy development. She has been instrumental in:

  • Strengthening financial discipline and operational efficiency

  • Developing innovative sales and marketing initiatives

  • Identifying growth opportunities and enhancing guest experiences

Her efforts have significantly contributed to the hotel’s profitability, market positioning, and brand recognition in Central India’s luxury hospitality sector.

Speaking on her promotion, Seema Taj shared her enthusiasm for the new role:

"I am delighted to step into the position of Director of Sales and Marketing at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore. My journey with this property has been one of growth, passion, and dedication, and I look forward to elevating guest experiences, strengthening partnerships, and driving excellence with my incredible team."

A Passion for Travel and Cultural Exploration

Beyond her professional achievements, Seema is an avid traveler, passionate about cooking, and enjoys connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. She finds joy in exploring new destinations, discovering unique cultures, and embracing fresh perspectives—a passion that complements her dynamic approach to hospitality.

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About Sheraton Grand Palace Indore

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore stands as Central India’s premier hospitality landmark, offering a seamless blend of modern luxury and timeless elegance. With its expansive event spaces, world-class dining, and commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences, Sheraton continues to redefine the standards of excellence in the hospitality industry.

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