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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on April 23, 2025
JW Marriott Kolkata has announced the appointment of Mr. Junaid Saifi as the new Information Technology (IT) Manager, strengthening its leadership team with a focus on technological advancement and digital innovation. With over five years of experience in IT operations, infrastructure development, and digital transformation, Junaid joins the hotel as one of the youngest and most dynamic Multi-Property IT Managers within the Marriott portfolio.
A postgraduate in Master of Computer Applications from KIIT University and a graduate of Agra University, Junaid's strong academic background in technology complements his natural problem-solving skills and solution-oriented approach.
Before this role, Junaid served as the Multi-Property IT Manager for Four Points by Sheraton Srinagar and Sonmarg, where he played a crucial role in streamlining IT operations and driving technical readiness for new property launches. His leadership was instrumental in launching Four Points by Sheraton Sonmarg in 2024, overseeing IT infrastructure setup, security implementation, and system integration. His earlier experiences at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, and Manappuram Finance added to his expertise in systems migration, infrastructure optimization, cybersecurity, and enterprise application management.
At JW Marriott Kolkata, Junaid will spearhead the implementation of Marriott’s global IT platforms, ensuring seamless integration with property-specific operations. He will be responsible for infrastructure management, cybersecurity, systems performance, and compliance, while leading digital transformation initiatives to enhance guest experience and operational efficiency.
Junaid’s technical portfolio covers complex projects such as VMware ESXi Server Installation, Opera PMS 5.6 Upgrades, Shiji Infrasys Cloud POS Implementation, Mobile Key and GPNS Deployment, Windows 10 Desktop Upgrades, and Digital Signage and Server Room Setup. He is well-versed with enterprise-level applications including Oracle Opera-PMS, Oracle Simphony-POS, VMware, Veeam, Veritas Backup, Webex, and Active Directory. His strengths also include team management, vendor negotiations, and business continuity planning.
In his new role, Junaid will develop and execute strategic IT plans, manage and optimize the hotel's hardware and software infrastructure, implement strong cybersecurity measures, lead IT project management, manage vendor relations, ensure compliance, and provide technical training and support across departments.
“We are delighted to welcome Junaid Saifi to JW Marriott Kolkata,” said Mr. Sunil Kumar, General Manager, JW Marriott Kolkata. “His appointment reaffirms our dedication to staying at the cutting edge of hospitality technology. Junaid brings not only technical prowess but also visionary leadership, and we are confident he will be a great asset to our executive team.”
As the youngest Multi-Property IT Manager within Marriott International, Junaid’s journey is a testament to his dedication, agility, and passion for innovation. With his forward-thinking approach and deep IT expertise, he is set to play a key role in shaping the future of technology at JW Marriott Kolkata and elevating the guest experience to new heights.
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By Hariharan U
Published on February 5, 2026
Hyatt Pune has appointed Glen D’Souza as its new General Manager, effective January 4, 2026. With more than two decades of experience in the global hospitality industry, D’Souza brings a strong background in hotel pre-openings, operations, and brand-led growth across key international markets.
In his new role, D’Souza will focus on strengthening Hyatt Pune’s positioning among business and leisure travellers, while also enhancing its reputation as a preferred destination for dining, social gatherings, and experiential hospitality. His leadership approach will centre on intuitive guest experiences, operational excellence, and team engagement.
Prior to joining Hyatt Pune, D’Souza served as the Pre-Opening General Manager at Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the hotel as a prominent lifestyle destination. Under his leadership, the property earned multiple industry recognitions in 2025, with its dining venues gaining strong local traction.
Before Hyatt, D’Souza spent over 20 years with Marriott International, holding senior leadership roles across Hong Kong, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. His experience spans seven hotel pre-openings and six brands across luxury, premium, extended stay, and select service segments.
Commenting on his appointment, D’Souza said he looks forward to building on Hyatt Pune’s strengths and creating meaningful guest connections in a dynamic and growing market.
The Ritz-Carlton, Pune has announced the appointment of Ishwinder Gill as its new General Manager, bringing with him over two decades of distinguished experience in the global hospitality industry.
In his new role, Ishwinder Gill will focus on further enhancing the hotel’s luxury positioning, strengthening operational excellence, and elevating overall guest experiences. His appointment reflects the brand’s continued commitment to thoughtful leadership and refined luxury in one of India’s key hospitality markets.
Ishwinder joins The Ritz-Carlton, Pune after a successful tenure as General Manager at W Goa, where he played a pivotal role in reinforcing the resort’s reputation as one of India’s leading luxury lifestyle destinations. His transition marks a shift from leading a vibrant lifestyle brand to steering one of the world’s most iconic luxury hospitality names.
Previously, Ishwinder served as Chief Operating Officer at Far East Hospitality, overseeing operations across 26 hotels in Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and Australia. During his time in Singapore, he was instrumental in the development and success of several acclaimed upscale and luxury brands, including The Barracks Hotel Sentosa, Oasia Resort Sentosa, The Outpost Hotel, and The Clan Hotel.
An alumnus of Cornell University, USA, and the William Angliss Institute, Melbourne, Ishwinder brings a strong academic foundation combined with deep operational expertise and a global perspective. This positions him well to lead The Ritz-Carlton, Pune into its next phase of growth and excellence.
Commenting on his appointment, Ishwinder Gill said, “I am delighted to join The Ritz-Carlton, Pune and embark on this new chapter. It is an honour to be part of such a globally respected brand, and I look forward to working with the ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Pune to further elevate the hotel as a benchmark for luxury hospitality in India.”
His appointment further underscores The Ritz-Carlton, Pune’s focus on strong leadership, exceptional service standards, and delivering memorable experiences aligned with the evolving expectations of today’s global luxury traveller.
The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group has announced the promotion of Ms. Deepmala Chaudhary to the role of General Manager – Sales & Corporate Revenue, acknowledging her long-standing contribution and leadership across the Group’s commercial functions.
Associated with The LaLiT since 2013, Ms. Chaudhary has steadily grown through key leadership roles, most recently serving as Head – Corporate Revenue. With over 18 years of experience in luxury hospitality revenue management, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening the Group’s revenue performance across India and international markets, including London.
In her expanded role, she will oversee integrated sales and corporate revenue strategies across rooms, food & beverage, MICE, and digital channels. Her responsibilities will continue to include pricing strategy, demand forecasting, distribution optimisation, and yield management, working closely with unit general managers and central teams.
During her tenure, Ms. Chaudhary has driven stronger direct and online booking performance, built strategic partnerships, and established robust centralised revenue systems across the Group’s portfolio.
Commenting on the promotion, Mr. Vivek Shukla, CEO, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, said, “Deepmala’s journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a deep understanding of hospitality business dynamics.”
Her elevation reflects The LaLiT’s focus on nurturing internal talent and building future-ready leadership.
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