Junaid Saifi Joins JW Marriott Kolkata as IT Manager

Junaid Saifi Joins JW Marriott Kolkata as IT Manager

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.”

image

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.


Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar Appoints Chef Kailash Singh as Executive Chef for Texas Operations

Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar Appoints Chef Kailash Singh as Executive Chef for Texas Operations

By Hariharan U

Published on July 23, 2026

Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar has appointed Chef Kailash Singh as Executive Chef for its Texas operations, strengthening the restaurant’s culinary leadership as it continues to expand its presence in the U.S. dining market.

Based in Highland Village, Texas, Chef Kailash will oversee the restaurant’s culinary direction, focusing on delivering authentic Indian flavours through contemporary techniques, innovative menu concepts, and elevated dining experiences.

With an international hospitality career spanning India, the United States, Poland, and the UAE, Chef Kailash brings extensive expertise in progressive Indian cuisine, menu development, kitchen operations, and team leadership.

Before joining Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar, Chef Kailash served as Sous Chef at BarNaan, Brookfield, USA. He most recently worked as Chef de Partie at ROOH San Francisco, where he contributed to the restaurant’s progressive Indian dining approach, combining traditional flavours with modern culinary techniques and contemporary presentation.

Earlier in his career, Chef Kailash worked in Warsaw, Poland, where he created Indian-inspired menus for international diners by blending traditional recipes with modern culinary concepts. He also served as Chef de Partie at Namak by Chef Kunal Kapoor at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, specialising in authentic tandoor preparations and regional Indian cuisine.

His professional journey also includes experience with renowned culinary establishments such as Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra, New Delhi; Oven Hot Bakery & Sweets L.L.C., Abu Dhabi; Café Out of the Box, Khan Market; Trinity Residency, Gurugram; and Mojo Blu, Cyber Green.

Throughout his career, Chef Kailash has contributed to multiple pre-opening projects, handling kitchen planning, menu creation, operational systems, and culinary team training.

Commenting on the appointment, Vipul Jain, Founder of Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar, said, "Chef Kailash Singh brings a wealth of international culinary experience and a deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine. His passion for quality, innovation, and authentic flavours aligns perfectly with our vision of offering guests an elevated Indian dining experience."

Speaking about his new role, Chef Kailash Singh said, "It is an honour to join Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar at such an exciting stage of its growth. Throughout my career, I have believed in delivering food with perfection while respecting the authenticity of Indian cuisine. I look forward to creating memorable dining experiences that combine regional Indian flavours with modern culinary craftsmanship for our guests in Texas."

With Chef Kailash Singh leading the kitchen, Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar aims to further strengthen its position as a destination for authentic Indian cuisine in Texas, offering guests a blend of heritage flavours, innovation, and modern hospitality.


Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall Appoints Zeba Hasan as Rooms Division Manager

Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall Appoints Zeba Hasan as Rooms Division Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 23, 2026

Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall has announced the appointment of Zeba Hasan as its new Rooms Division Manager, strengthening the hotel's leadership team as it continues to enhance guest experiences and operational excellence.

In her new role, Zeba will lead the hotel's Rooms Division, overseeing key guest-facing operations with a focus on maintaining high service standards, developing teams and delivering seamless guest experiences. She will also work closely with the leadership team to support the hotel's overall business goals.

image

With more than a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Zeba has built her career across leading Accor properties in India. Before joining Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, she served as Cluster Front Office Manager at Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim, where she managed front office operations across both hotels.

During her tenure, she played an important role in improving guest engagement and operational performance while helping the property become India's highest enrolment-performing hotel for the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty programme.

Commenting on the appointment, Ram Shetty, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Zeba to Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall. Her extensive experience, collaborative leadership style and deep understanding of the Accor ecosystem make her a valuable addition to our team. With a strong focus on driving commercial growth, enhancing guest engagement, and elevating the hotel's market presence, Zeba's appointment comes at a pivotal time. Her expertise will support our vision of delivering memorable experiences while strengthening our positioning in Bengaluru's competitive hospitality landscape. We are confident that she will further strengthen our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality."

Speaking about her appointment, Zeba Hasan said:

"I am delighted to join Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall and begin this exciting new chapter in my journey with Accor. The opportunity to work with such a passionate team and contribute to a hotel that is known for its warm hospitality and service culture is truly exciting. I am committed to creating exceptional guest experiences by building a high-performing Rooms Division that places equal emphasis on service excellence, operational efficiency, and team engagement. Together with the team, I look forward to introducing thoughtful initiatives that enhance guest satisfaction while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality. I look forward to working alongside the team to build on the hotel's strong foundation and continue creating meaningful and memorable experiences for every guest."

With her strong operational background and experience within the Accor network, Zeba's appointment is expected to further strengthen the hotel's service standards while supporting its continued growth in Bengaluru's competitive hospitality market.


Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints Kishor Chander Joshi as Director of Finance & Business Support

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints Kishor Chander Joshi as Director of Finance & Business Support

By Hariharan U

Published on July 22, 2026

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has announced the appointment of Kishor Chander Joshi as its new Director of Finance & Business Support, strengthening the hotel’s leadership team with his extensive expertise in hospitality finance and strategic business management.

With over 20 years of experience across India’s hospitality sector, Kishor brings strong capabilities in financial management, strategic planning, budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and business performance optimisation.

Prior to joining Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, Kishor served as Assistant Director of Finance at Renaissance Goa Hotel, where he managed finance and accounting operations, supported financial planning processes, prepared budgets and forecasts, monitored business performance, and implemented initiatives to improve operational efficiency.

Kishor began his hospitality career with Dalmia Resorts International Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, and has since worked with several reputed hospitality brands, including Lemon Tree Hotels, Park Plaza New Delhi, Pride Plaza Aerocity New Delhi, Holiday Inn Kolkata, Holiday Inn Chandigarh, Morpho Hotels & Resorts India Pvt. Ltd., Novotel Guwahati, and Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri.

In his new role at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, Kishor will lead the finance and business support function, focusing on strengthening financial governance, improving operational performance, and supporting the hotel’s strategic growth objectives.

Commenting on the appointment, Sharad K. Upadhyay, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Kishor Chander Joshi to the leadership team at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida. His extensive experience in hospitality finance, strategic mindset, and proven leadership capabilities make him an invaluable addition to our organisation. We are confident that his expertise will further strengthen our financial performance and support the hotel's continued growth and success. We wish him every success in his new role."

Speaking about his appointment, Kishor Chander Joshi said:

"I am excited to join Crowne Plaza Greater Noida and become part of a dynamic team committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. I look forward to contributing to the hotel's growth by strengthening financial excellence, fostering collaboration, and supporting the organisation's long-term business objectives."

Beyond his professional journey, Kishor enjoys playing cricket and reading books, reflecting his passion for teamwork, continuous learning, and personal development.

With this appointment, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida continues to strengthen its leadership team while remaining focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and sustainable business growth.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.