DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square has announced the appointment of Mayank Takkar as its new Food & Beverage Manager. Bringing over a decade of hospitality experience, Mayank joins the hotel with expertise in food and beverage operations, guest experience, and team leadership.

In his new role, he will oversee the hotel's complete food and beverage portfolio, including its restaurants, bars, banqueting, and in-room dining services. His responsibilities will include strengthening service standards, enhancing culinary experiences, driving revenue growth, and further elevating the hotel's dining offerings in line with Hilton's global hospitality standards.

Before joining DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square, Mayank served as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at Hilton Jaipur, where he managed multiple F&B operations while contributing to revenue growth and guest satisfaction initiatives. During his career, he has also worked with leading hospitality brands such as Marriott Hotels, Hyatt Hotels, Westin Gurgaon, Andaz by Hyatt, and Trident Gurgaon.

A graduate in Hotel and Hospitality Management from IHM Gwalior, Mayank has developed strong expertise in food and beverage operations, revenue optimisation, guest relations, event management, service excellence, and team development. He is recognised for his collaborative leadership style and guest-first approach, along with his ability to build high-performing teams and deliver memorable dining experiences.

Commenting on the appointment, Nitin Pathak, General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square, said:

"We are pleased to welcome Mayank to the DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square family. Bringing extensive industry experience and strong expertise in Food & Beverage operations, he joins us with a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences and driving service excellence. We are confident that his leadership, strategic vision, and operational acumen will further elevate our dining offerings and contribute significantly to enhancing the overall guest experience."

Expressing his excitement about the new role, Mayank Takkar said:

"I am excited to embark on this new journey with DoubleTree by Hilton Gurugram Baani Square. My focus will be on further enhancing the hotel's food and beverage experiences while ensuring our guests receive unique, memorable, and exceptional service. I look forward to working closely with the team to foster a positive work culture and contribute to the continued growth and success of the property."

Hyatt Regency Chandigarh has announced the appointment of Chef Balvinder Lubana as its new Executive Chef. Bringing more than 17 years of culinary experience, he joins the hotel after working with some of India's leading luxury hospitality brands, including The Oberoi Group, Taj Hotels, Marriott International, and Hyatt.

In his new role, Chef Balvinder Lubana will oversee the hotel's entire culinary operations, including its restaurants, banqueting, in-room dining, and customised dining experiences. His appointment is expected to strengthen the hotel's food and beverage offerings while introducing innovative dining concepts that align with evolving guest preferences.

Chef Balvinder is known for his modern culinary approach that combines authentic regional flavours with global influences. His philosophy focuses on sustainability, wellness, locally sourced ingredients, and storytelling through food, creating experiences that are both memorable and relevant for today's travellers.

Throughout his career, he has successfully led culinary teams, developed new dining concepts, and built a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning. His ability to balance innovation with operational excellence has earned him recognition across the hospitality industry.

Chef Balvinder has also served as a member of the APEC Culinary Advisory Board (2024–25). He is passionate about promoting sustainable culinary practices, supporting local produce, and giving traditional cuisines a contemporary touch through modern techniques and presentation.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Balvinder Lubana said:

"I am honored to join Hyatt Regency Chandigarh and be part of a team that shares a passion for excellence and innovation. Food today is about creating meaningful connections and memorable experiences. I look forward to developing culinary offerings that celebrate local heritage, embrace global inspirations, and reflect the evolving tastes of our guests."

With Chef Balvinder leading its culinary division, Hyatt Regency Chandigarh aims to further enhance its dining experiences and strengthen its reputation as one of the region's leading culinary destinations through innovation, authenticity, and a guest-focused approach.

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center has announced the elevation of Raees Mulla as Front Office Manager, recognising his consistent contributions and leadership within the hotel's front office operations.

Having been associated with the property for more than four years, Raees takes on the new role after most recently serving as Assistant Front Office Manager. He joined the hotel in 2021 as Front Desk Manager and was promoted to Assistant Front Office Manager in 2023.

With over a decade of experience in the luxury hospitality sector, Raees brings expertise in front office operations, guest experience, revenue optimisation, service recovery, operational controls, and team leadership. In his new position, he will oversee guest services, arrivals and departures, VIP movements, front office operations, service recovery, and team development.

During his tenure at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, Raees has played a key role in improving front office efficiency, enhancing guest satisfaction, streamlining daily operations, and mentoring teams across guest-facing functions. Prior to joining the hotel, he held operational roles at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu and Trident Nariman Point, where he developed a strong foundation in luxury hospitality and guest service.

Raees is a graduate in Hospitality Management from Kohinoor College, Mumbai, and also holds an Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management from BHMS, Switzerland. His professional achievements include graduating from Marriott's Development Academy – ENVISION, receiving the Marriott Five Years Service Award, and earning certification as a Departmental Trainer through The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development.

Commenting on his elevation, Raees Mulla said that his journey at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield has been shaped by a supportive leadership team and collaborative colleagues. He added that his focus will remain on continuously enhancing the guest experience while leading his team to deliver exceptional service.

Elton Hurtis, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said Raees has consistently demonstrated ownership, operational maturity, and strong leadership throughout his journey with the hotel. He noted that Raees' understanding of the property's operational complexity and guest expectations makes him well-positioned to further strengthen service delivery and guest experience.

The elevation reflects Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center's continued focus on recognising internal talent and developing future leaders while maintaining high standards of operational excellence and guest satisfaction