Hyatt Regency Chandigarh Appoints Takshila Chheda & Rafi Ansari to Key Leadership Roles

Hyatt Regency Chandigarh Appoints Takshila Chheda & Rafi Ansari to Key Leadership Roles

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 4, 2025

Hyatt Regency Chandigarh is pleased to announce two significant additions to its leadership team—Takshila Chheda as Area Director – Digital Marketing, North Region and Rafi Ansari as Director of Food & Beverage. These appointments reflect the hotel’s ongoing commitment to innovation, guest engagement, and culinary excellence.

Takshila Chheda: Driving Digital Innovation

As the newly appointed Area Director – Digital Marketing for Hyatt Hotels in the North Region, Takshila Chheda will lead strategic digital initiatives across multiple properties, aligning them with Hyatt’s broader business goals.

With over a decade of experience, Ms. Chheda has crafted impactful marketing campaigns across industries. Previously, she spearheaded Hyatt’s digital strategy for the East and West regions from Grand Hyatt Mumbai. Her career highlights include:

  • Reliance Industries: Led digital strategy for Jio World Centre, including the launch of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre.
  • Tata Motors: Developed high-profile campaigns for IPL, Geneva Motor Show, and Auto Expo.
  • Taj Lands’ End, MSL, Edelman, and Perfect Relations: Honed expertise in public relations and corporate communications.

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Ms. Chheda holds an MSc in Corporate Communications and Reputation Management from Manchester Business School, UK, and has also contributed to academia as a Visiting Faculty at KJ Somaiya Institute of Management.

Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new cuisines, working out, traveling, and reading fiction.

“We are delighted to welcome Takshila Chheda to the Hyatt family in the North region. Her expertise and innovative approach will be invaluable as we enhance our digital presence and guest engagement.”
— Ashwini Kumar, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Chandigarh

Rafi Ansari: Elevating Culinary Experiences

Bringing over 18 years of hospitality experience, Rafi Ansari joins as the Director of Food & Beverage, aiming to elevate Hyatt Regency Chandigarh’s dining experiences and service standards.

Mr. Ansari began his career as a Food & Beverage Associate at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu and has since held leadership roles across prestigious hotels, including:

  • Sofitel Mumbai BKC, Marriott Kochi, Fairfield by Marriott Lucknow, and The Westin Goa
  • Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal – Led F&B operations, enhanced brand visibility, and drove revenue growth.

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A go-getter and creative leader, Mr. Ansari thrives on crafting unique dining experiences. Outside of work, he enjoys road trips, cooking at home, and spending time with his daughter. His bucket list includes traveling to Switzerland with his family.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rafi Ansari to the Hyatt Regency Chandigarh family. His expertise, creativity, and passion for exceptional dining experiences will undoubtedly elevate our F&B offerings.”
— Ashwini Kumar, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Chandigarh

Hyatt Regency Chandigarh: A Commitment to Excellence

Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, part of the global Hyatt Regency brand, embodies open-hearted hospitality and vibrant community experiences. Nestled in the dynamic city of Chandigarh, the hotel offers a seamless blend of local culture and contemporary luxury, making it a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers.

With thoughtfully designed spaces, exceptional culinary offerings, and versatile event venues, Hyatt Regency Chandigarh continues to set new benchmarks in guest experiences and hospitality innovation.

For more information, visit hyattregencychandigarh.com.

Phone: +91 172 440 1234
Email: info@hyattregencychandigarh.com
Website: www.hyatt.com


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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