HotelKey Fortifies Global Team with Harish Chandra as MD of Technology

HotelKey Fortifies Global Team with Harish Chandra as MD of Technology

By Author

Published on August 27, 2023

HotelKey, a renowned name in hospitality management software, is proud to announce the addition of Harish Chandra to its esteemed international team. With an impressive career spanning nearly three decades in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector and Digital, Harish Chandra is set to lead the organization's technological innovation and strategic growth as the new Managing Director, Technology.

Chandra's rich experience encompasses hospitality and travel technology, making him an ideal fit to steer HotelKey's vision for the future of the industry. His expertise underscores the company's commitment to progress.

Chandra's influence on travel and hospitality technology demonstrates not just leadership but also innovation and collaboration. His dedication is evident as he steps into his new role, driven by the limitless possibilities ahead. Chandra recognizes that HotelKey's technology is shaping guest experiences while also revolutionizing the hospitality and travel landscape. His mission is to drive innovation, expansion, and build upon HotelKey's stellar reputation.

Chandra's global leadership in the travel and hospitality domain is highlighted by his roles as a former Executive Board member of Hospitality Technology Next Generation (HTNG)-American Hotel & Lodging Association and Founder of Global Hospitality Technology Professionals Group (GHTP). This active community serves as a knowledge-sharing hub for technology professionals in the industry.

His skill set in designing technology-driven business solutions and digitalization strategies is evident through his accomplishments, including spearheading digital services in more than 70 properties. Notable establishments like The Park Chennai, Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, and IHG - Crowne Plaza Gurgaon have benefited from his expertise.

Chandra's international experience is marked by his contributions in the Middle East, where he implemented PMS/POS solutions across countries like UAE, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Yemen. As CTO at Sarovar Hotels, he led ICT planning for 95+ hotels, managing IT functions and costs across South Asia and Africa.

HotelKey's expansion continues, and Chandra's addition reinforces its growth. As the company serves around 25 hospitality clients in India, its influence in the APAC region becomes more significant.

Aditya Thyagarajan, Co-Founder and President of HotelKey, expresses excitement about Chandra's inclusion: "As we continue our growth in the global market, we are excited to add Harish Chandra to the HotelKey family. His exceptional experience in the hospitality and technology industries represent the dynamic future of what is to come for our evolving team."

As we continue our growth in the global market, we are excited to add Harish Chandra to the HotelKey family, His exceptional experience in the hospitality and technology industries represent the dynamic future of what is to come for our evolving team.


The LaLiT New Delhi Appoints Vishal Sharma as General Manager

The LaLiT New Delhi Appoints Vishal Sharma as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kanna

Published on February 24, 2026

The LaLiT New Delhi has announced the appointment of Vishal Sharma as its new General Manager. Bringing over 18 years of experience across sales, marketing, and hotel operations, Vishal adds a strong commercial edge and leadership depth to the iconic luxury hotel in New Delhi.

Vishal started his hospitality journey with Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces and went on to take up senior sales and marketing roles at leading properties such as The Imperial New Delhi, The Claridges New Delhi, and Radisson MBD Noida. His association with the brand is long-standing, having earlier served as Head of Sales at The LaLiT New Delhi, followed by his role as National Head of Sales (Business Hotels) at The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

Most recently, Vishal was Director of Sales and Marketing at IHG Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini. He was also part of the IHG EMEAA General Manager Development Programme 2025, further strengthening his leadership credentials.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Vivek Shukla, Chief Executive Officer, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome Vishal back to The LaLiT New Delhi in this leadership role. His deep commercial expertise, strong understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape, and long-standing association with the brand position him exceptionally well to lead the property into its next phase of growth. We are confident that under his leadership, the hotel will continue to deliver elevated guest experiences and strengthen its market presence.”

In his new role, Vishal will be responsible for overseeing overall hotel operations, shaping commercial strategy, and leading guest engagement initiatives, further strengthening the hotel’s standing in the luxury hospitality segment.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Vishal Sharma said, “It is truly an honour to take on this responsibility at The LaLiT New Delhi, a brand widely recognised for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusive hospitality. I look forward to fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and empowered, while ensuring our guests experience not only exceptional service, but a space that celebrates individuality, respect, and belonging.”


Espire Hospitality Strengthens Sales Team with Two New Directors

Espire Hospitality Strengthens Sales Team with Two New Directors

By Hariharan U

Published on February 23, 2026

Espire Hospitality Limited has strengthened its commercial team with the appointment of Mr. Daksh Shandilya and Ms. Ashwini Alpesh Taware as Director of Sales. This step reflects the company’s clear focus on expanding its reach and sharpening its sales strategy for ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts.

Daksh Shandilya brings over nine years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing. Over the years, he has worked with leading brands such as The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, Lemon Tree Hotels, Treehouse Hotels & Resorts, and Old-World Hospitality. His experience covers key account management, business development, and market expansion across competitive regions. He has handled segments including PCO, DMC, and MICE, helping brands grow through structured planning and strong long-term partnerships.

Ashwini Alpesh Taware joins with more than a decade of experience across corporate sales, travel trade, events, and MICE. She has been associated with brands like Lemon Tree Hotels, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Nashik, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, and The Orchid Hotel Mumbai. Having worked at both property-level and national sales offices, she understands client expectations and market trends closely.

Commenting on the appointments, Mr. Akhil Arora, CEO & MD, Espire Hospitality Limited, said, "Our focus has always been on building strong leadership teams that can take our brands forward in a competitive market. Daksh and Ashwini come with solid industry experience and a clear understanding of how today's hospitality business works. Their addition strengthens our focus to grow our market footprint, deepen our engagement with key partners, and drive consistent performance across ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts."

In their new roles, Daksh Shandilya and Ashwini Alpesh Taware will focus on improving sales performance and supporting Espire Hospitality Limited’s long-term growth plans across its brands


The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at Tiga

The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at Tiga

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 22, 2026

The Leela Hyderabad has announced the appointment of Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at its signature dining destination, Tiga, further reinforcing the hotel’s focus on culinary excellence and leadership.

With close to three decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Rana brings with him a strong professional foundation shaped by his tenure across several renowned hotel brands. His career includes stints at Park Hyatt Hotels, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Grand InterContinental, Le Royal Meridien, and The St. Regis. Over the years, his work has been defined by a disciplined approach to global cuisines, with a sharp focus on authenticity, precision, and guest satisfaction.

Speaking on his appointment, Rana said, “cooking, for me, is a continuous journey of learning and refinement. i believe in respecting ingredients, techniques, and authentic recipes while evolving with guest expectations. at the leela hyderabad, i look forward to creating dining experiences that balance global influences with flavours that resonate with the local palate.”

At Tiga, Rana aims to curate menus that blend international culinary trends with regional sensibilities. A key highlight of his vision is a strong emphasis on Sichuan-style cuisine, known for its bold spices, layered aromas, and balanced heat, while ensuring the offerings remain approachable for local diners.

Welcoming him to the team, Rajesh Gopalakrishnan, General Manager of The Leela Hyderabad, said, “chef rana’s extensive experience across some of the world’s most respected hospitality brands, combined with his commitment to consistency and quality, makes him a valuable addition to our culinary team. his leadership will play a key role in further elevating the dining experience at the leela hyderabad.”

With this appointment, The Leela Hyderabad continues to strengthen its culinary portfolio, positioning Tiga as a destination for refined global flavours delivered with consistency and care.

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