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


Conrad Pune Appoints Subhadeep Saha as Rooms Division Manager

Conrad Pune Appoints Subhadeep Saha as Rooms Division Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on April 27, 2026

Conrad Pune has announced the appointment of Subhadeep Saha as Rooms Division Manager, reinforcing its leadership team in operations and guest experience.

With over 12 years of experience across multiple properties within Hilton, Subhadeep brings deep expertise in guest services, team leadership, and operational excellence. In his most recent role, he managed front office and health club operations in a high-volume MICE environment, where he drove improvements in loyalty engagement, guest satisfaction scores, and online reputation rankings.

His career includes key roles at leading Hilton properties such as DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru, Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum, and Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, building a strong foundation in operational standards and cross-functional leadership.

In his new role at Conrad Pune, Subhadeep will oversee Rooms Division along with Wellness and Leisure operations, focusing on strengthening day-to-day efficiencies and enhancing guest satisfaction. His responsibilities will span the hotel’s 351 rooms, dining outlets, meeting spaces, and lifestyle facilities, ensuring seamless and consistent service delivery.

Sharing his thoughts, Subhadeep expressed enthusiasm about joining the property, highlighting his focus on collaboration, empathy, and team-driven leadership to create meaningful guest and colleague experiences.

Commenting on the appointment, Abhishek Sahai, General Manager, Conrad Pune, noted that Subhadeep’s operational expertise and people-first approach will play a key role in further elevating the hotel’s service standards.

This appointment reflects Conrad Pune’s continued focus on strengthening leadership capabilities while delivering refined and consistent luxury hospitality experiences.


Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Appoints Vikas Thakre as Assistant Manager – Reservations

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Appoints Vikas Thakre as Assistant Manager – Reservations

By Hariharan U

Published on April 27, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar has announced the appointment of Vikas Ravi Thakre as Assistant Manager – Reservations, further strengthening its operational leadership.

With over six years of experience in the hospitality industry, Vikas brings a strong mix of reservations expertise, operational efficiency, and guest-focused service. In his new role, he will oversee the hotel’s reservations function, focusing on optimising booking channels, improving forecasting accuracy, and enhancing overall reservation performance.

Commenting on the appointment, Rahul Janve, General Manager, highlighted that Vikas’s understanding of reservation systems and ability to drive efficiency make him a valuable addition to the team.

Prior to joining the Mahabaleshwar property, Vikas was associated with Fairfield by Marriott Calangute, where he served as Assistant Manager – Reservations. During his tenure, he managed individual and group bookings, monitored room inventory, and collaborated closely with sales and front office teams. He also contributed to reservation reporting, booking trend analysis, and revenue optimisation strategies.

He began his journey at the same property as a Reservation Executive, where he played a key role in streamlining processes and improving operational efficiency. His earlier experience includes roles at The Fern Residency and Le Méridien Nagpur, where he developed a strong foundation in front office operations and guest relations.

Speaking on his new role, Vikas expressed enthusiasm about joining the team and contributing to seamless reservation experiences while maintaining high service standards.

Recognised for his consistent performance, he has received multiple accolades, including Employee of the Month and Associate of the Month awards. With proficiency in systems such as Opera, Marsha, and HPP, along with a strong analytical approach, he is well-positioned to further enhance the hotel’s reservations operations.


Foodlink Global Appoints Jayved Kumar as Head Chef in Dubai

Foodlink Global Appoints Jayved Kumar as Head Chef in Dubai

By Hariharan U

Published on April 27, 2026

Foodlink Global has announced the appointment of Jayved Kumar as Head Chef, reinforcing its culinary leadership in the Middle East region.

With over 15 years of experience, Chef Jayved brings a strong foundation in modern Indian cuisine, kitchen operations, and team leadership. Known for his ability to blend traditional flavours with contemporary techniques, he has built a reputation for delivering consistent quality across large-scale operations.

Prior to this role, he served as Unit Chef at PINCODE Restaurant by Chef Kunal Kapur, where he played a key role in menu innovation and guest satisfaction. His professional journey also includes tenures with Azure Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. and Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, where he gained extensive experience in menu development, vendor management, and operational efficiency.

In his new role at Foodlink Global, Chef Jayved will oversee kitchen operations across Dubai, focusing on menu innovation, maintaining global hygiene and safety standards, and enhancing overall dining experiences. His expertise spans curry and tandoor specialities, fusion cuisine, and large-scale kitchen administration, supported by strong knowledge of HACCP compliance and quality audits.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Jayved expressed enthusiasm about joining the brand, highlighting his intent to create innovative dining experiences that combine traditional Indian flavours with modern presentation and techniques.

This strategic appointment underscores Foodlink Global’s commitment to strengthening its culinary excellence and expanding its presence in the competitive Middle East hospitality landscape.

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