Indian School of Hospitality Launches Career LEAP Programme with Marriott International

Indian School of Hospitality Launches Career LEAP Programme with Marriott International

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 10, 2024

The Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) has unveiled its new ‘Career LEAP’ Programme, a pioneering initiative designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional experience in the hospitality industry. Supported by Marriott International, this program promises to transform the career trajectories of young hospitality professionals.

The Career LEAP Programme (CLP) focuses on Leadership, Excellence, Aspiration, and Professionalism (LEAP), and aims to equip students with the skills and experience necessary for a successful career in hospitality. Marriott International has committed to offering 36 pre-placement offers (PPOs) to ISH postgraduates, providing a clear career path and a strong start in the industry.

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The CLP includes a comprehensive pathway for career advancement, combining a six-month academic curriculum at the ISH Gurugram campus with a six-month On-the-Job Training (OJT) experience at Marriott International. This dual approach ensures that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also practical skills to meet the dynamic challenges of the hospitality sector.

Upon completing the CLP and passing their Marriott assessments, students will receive the ISH Postgraduate Programme Certification in partnership with Les Roches. This certification opens doors to full-time employment in various roles such as sales, revenue, and culinary management within Marriott International hotels across India. Additionally, graduates can further their education by pursuing a Master’s or MBA at Les Roches in Switzerland or Spain, leveraging their PGP credits and gaining Les Roches Alumni status.

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Kunal Vasudeva, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ISH, emphasized the program’s impact: “In forging this partnership with Marriott International, we’re opening a broader horizon for our students, expanding traditional education boundaries. The Career LEAP Programme doesn’t just educate; it propels the next generation of hospitality professionals into a world of global opportunities, professional growth, and career readiness. This initiative is pivotal in broadening the scope of hospitality education, inviting a wider audience of students to explore and excel in this vibrant industry. It announces a new era for graduate employment programs, addressing the immediate need for quality talent within the hospitality sector and shaping the blueprint for future education-to-employment pathways.”

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Ranju Alex, Area Vice President for South Asia at Marriott International, echoed these sentiments: “We are delighted to support this initiative introduced by the Indian School of Hospitality. This program holds immense potential as a launching pad for students seeking to embark on and progress in their careers within the ever-evolving hospitality sector. The Career Leap Programme boasts a curriculum meticulously crafted to meet the demands of the contemporary hospitality landscape. Marriott International prides itself on its depth and diversity of talent, believes in the importance of training and value of upskilling, and is honored to help the next generation of hospitality leaders hone their skills and achieve their full potential.”

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This partnership between ISH and Marriott International represents a significant advancement in hospitality education, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the industry’s demands and future opportunities. The Career LEAP Programme sets new benchmarks for integrating academic excellence with practical experience, shaping the blueprint for future education-to-employment pathways in the hospitality sector.


ITC Hotels Unveils Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri: A Soulful Mountain Retreat

ITC Hotels Unveils Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri: A Soulful Mountain Retreat

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2025

ITC Hotels has expanded its premium Storii brand with the launch of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, an experiential mountain retreat set amidst apple orchards with stunning views of the Dhauladhar ranges. The property blends the natural beauty of the Shimla Hills with refined hospitality, offering guests an immersive, soulful escape.

Storii Kufri features elegantly appointed rooms overlooking the valley, a spa with curated wellness experiences, and multiple dining options. Guests can indulge in Himachali delicacies and global cuisine at Daran Valley, enjoy open-air terrace dining with light bites and handcrafted beverages at Café Mehral, relax with teas and desserts at Baag View, or savour premium cocktails at Raspippin Bar. The Baghal Room serves as the signature banquet space, ideal for weddings, corporate retreats, and social gatherings.

“ITC Hotels Limited has a very strong presence in Himachal Pradesh and with the addition of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, we further strengthen our footprint in the state. The property is inspired by the region’s rich heritage and culture, celebrating local artistry thoughtfully blended with contemporary comforts,” said Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited.

“Our dream was to create more than a hotel, we envisaged a destination that reflects the essence of Shimla Hills. We welcome guests to discover not just a stay, but a story that celebrates the region and the spirit of true hospitality,” said Udayvir Singh Punta, Owner of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri.

Visitors can enjoy orchard walks, curated treks, bonfire evenings, and wellness treatments at the spa and salon. Located just a short drive from Shimla, the retreat is positioned as a premier choice for leisure getaways, corporate retreats, and destination weddings.

With Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, ITC Hotels continues to expand its portfolio of premium experiential destinations, combining regional authenticity with modern luxury.

If you want, I can also draft a shorter social media-friendly version highlighting the scenic location, wellness offerings, and curated dining at Storii Kufri.


Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Maharashtra with New Resort in Mahabaleshwar

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Maharashtra with New Resort in Mahabaleshwar

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of its newest property, Lemon Tree Resort, Saj by the Mountain, Mahabaleshwar. The resort will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, the management arm and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited.

This signing marks an important milestone in the brand’s expansion across Maharashtra, further strengthening its leisure and resort portfolio. Known for offering vibrant, comfortable, and value-driven stays, Lemon Tree continues to attract both business and leisure travellers across India.

The upcoming Lemon Tree Resort, Saj by the Mountain will feature:

  • 78 well-appointed rooms offering scenic views

  • A restaurant and a bar serving curated local and global cuisines

  • A banquet hall for events and celebrations

  • A swimming pool and spa for recreation and relaxation

Speaking on the signing, Vilas Pawar, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With this signing, we will expand our leisure portfolio in Maharashtra, a state where we currently have 15 operational and 11 upcoming properties, in addition to this one. While growing our footprint across cities of all tiers, this partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of offering refreshing and comfortable stays across all destinations.”

The addition of the Mahabaleshwar resort highlights Lemon Tree’s strategic focus on premium leisure destinations, complementing its strong city presence. As the travel and tourism landscape continues to evolve, the brand aims to deliver distinctive experiences rooted in comfort, warmth, and value.


Sheraton Hyderabad Relaunches Jade Ballroom After Extensive Redesign

Sheraton Hyderabad Relaunches Jade Ballroom After Extensive Redesign

By Hariharan U

Published on October 21, 2025

Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel has announced the relaunch of its signature banquet space, the Jade Ballroom following an extensive redesign. The transformed venue combines contemporary elegance with the city’s cultural heritage, setting a new benchmark for events and celebrations in Hyderabad.

Speaking about the relaunch, Subhankar Bose, General Manager, Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel, said, “The relaunch of Jade Ballroom represents our commitment to offering Hyderabad an exceptional venue that honours tradition while embracing innovation. This space is designed to create magical moments for our guests — whether they are celebrating life’s milestones or hosting distinguished business events.”

The reimagined Jade Ballroom now offers 4,500 sq. ft. of flexible, pillarless meeting space, complemented by a 2,500 sq. ft. pre-function area. With a total capacity of up to 600 guests, it ranks among Hyderabad’s largest and most adaptable event venues.

Designed for versatility, the ballroom’s column-free architecture ensures unobstructed sightlines, allowing seamless transitions between intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The space can also be divided into Jade 1 and Jade 2, offering flexibility for simultaneous events or customized layouts.

The enhanced pre-function area, ideal for cocktail receptions, networking sessions, or registration zones, features independent access for added exclusivity. State-of-the-art audio-visual systems and advanced lighting technology have also been integrated, ensuring every event is executed with sophistication and precision.

With its blend of timeless design, modern technology, and spacious versatility, the new Jade Ballroom reaffirms Sheraton Hyderabad’s position as a premier destination for weddings, social celebrations, and corporate events in the city.

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