Hilton has recently announced a major leadership change in its Indian operations. Zubin Saxena has been appointed as the new Senior Vice President and Country Head for India, marking a significant shift in the company's strategy for the region. Saxena, an industry veteran with a rich 24-year background in hospitality, is set to take the reins in January 2024.

Saxena's journey in the hospitality sector has been remarkable. Before joining Hilton, he was with Radisson Hotel Group for over eight years, ascending to the role of Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President for South Asia. His career also includes a notable four-year tenure at IHG, where he served as the Director of Development for South Asia, and advisory roles with Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels in India and HVS in New York. Armed with an MBA from the Adam Smith School of Business in Glasgow, Saxena is known for his leadership and team-building skills.

In his new role at Hilton, Saxena will oversee the company's 25 operational hotels in India. His primary focus will be on driving Hilton's expansion in South Asia, with 20 properties currently in the pipeline. Saxena's appointment follows the departure of Navjit Ahluwalia, who has been instrumental in Hilton's growth in India over the past six years, including steering the company through the pandemic.

Ahluwalia's tenure saw significant milestones, like the opening of the Hilton Goa Resort, Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, and the DoubleTree by Hilton in Varanasi, among others. He also launched Hilton's new corporate office in Gurugram.

With India representing a major opportunity for Hilton, Saxena's appointment comes at a crucial time. "I am excited by the size and scope of the role and look forward to leading and delivering on our ambitious goals in this incredibly dynamic market,” Saxena commented on his new role. Under his leadership, Hilton aims to triple its estate, introducing new brands such as the Waldorf Astoria Jaipur, set to open in 2027.

Saxena's appointment marks a new chapter for Hilton in India, as the company gears up to expand its footprint and continue its legacy of excellence in hospitality. The industry eagerly awaits the new heights Hilton will achieve under Saxena's visionary leadership.