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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 September 6, 2025
Fairmont Udaipur Palace has appointed Harsh Champawat as hotel manager, adding a seasoned leader to its pre-opening team. With more than a decade of experience across India and international markets, Champawat combines operational expertise, strategic foresight, and a passion for delivering elevated luxury hospitality.
He has been instrumental in shaping the resort’s service ethos, driving operational performance, and curating guest experiences that blend grandeur with warmth. Before joining Fairmont Udaipur, Champawat served as hotel manager at The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York, where he led operations while maintaining the property’s storied reputation and delivering Taj’s signature hospitality on a global stage.
His career began with Taj Hotels as a management trainee, progressing through iconic properties including Umaid Bhawan Palace, Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, and Taj Palace New Delhi, where he advanced to director of operations. International stints at Taj 51 Buckingham Gate and St. James’ Court, London, enriched his understanding of luxury clientele and global market dynamics. Champawat’s leadership is rooted in empowerment, precision, and purpose, setting the tone for a guest journey that is both refined and memorable at Fairmont Udaipur Palace.
Marriott International has appointed Kiran Andicot as senior vice president to lead its South Asia portfolio, overseeing operations, development, and strategic growth across India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
In this expanded role, Andicot will align growth with operating performance, strengthen owner partnerships, accelerate hotel conversions and openings, and reinforce regional leadership. With nearly 30 years of experience spanning hotel operations, consultancy, planning, feasibility studies, and development, Andicot joined Marriott’s development and feasibility team in 2006 and has risen steadily over a 19-year tenure.
He has been instrumental in driving growth momentum, signing over 220 hotels in South Asia, including a record 42 hotels and 7,000 rooms in India in 2024, and recently securing a landmark deal with Concept Hospitality to affiliate The Fern portfolio of 115 properties with Series by Marriott. These initiatives extend Marriott’s reach beyond gateway cities into Tier 2 and 3 locations such as Surat, Shimla, Jalandhar, and Coorg, while also diversifying the portfolio into the residences segment. Andicot’s vast expertise and deep market knowledge continue to strengthen Marriott’s position as the largest hospitality chain in India, reinforcing its trajectory of sustained growth in the region.
Published on September 5, 2025
Four Points By Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi has announced a significant leadership expansion with the appointment of four accomplished women professionals to key roles across sales, revenue, front office, and marketing.
Stepping in as Director of Sales, Pradnya Pangerkar brings over 17 years of experience and a strong track record in driving revenue growth and forging impactful partnerships. Joining her is Kashish Jaiswal, who takes on the role of Assistant Revenue & Reservations Manager. With her analytical expertise and market foresight, she is expected to play a vital role in optimising hotel performance and profitability.
On the operations front, Rakhi Pandey has been appointed as Front Office Manager. Renowned for her expertise in guest relations and operational efficiency, she is committed to delivering memorable experiences and seamless service. Meanwhile, Sheetal Baste assumes the position of Marketing Manager, leveraging her rich experience in event management and F&B marketing. With a background in curating large-scale experiential events and working with leading hospitality brands, she will focus on enhancing brand visibility and guest engagement.
Commenting on the appointments, Kiran Muniraj, Hotel Manager, Four Points By Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi, said, “These appointments mark a significant milestone in our journey toward inclusive leadership and operational excellence. We are thrilled to welcome Pradnya, Kashish, Rakhi, and Sheetal to our leadership team. Their expertise and vision will be instrumental in shaping the next chapter of our growth story. More importantly, their presence reflects our belief in empowering women to lead with confidence and impact”.
He further added, “They represent a new wave of leadership, one that is collaborative, intuitive, and deeply aligned with our values. Gender diversity isn’t a checkbox; it’s a catalyst for innovation, empathy, and sustainable success. I’m proud to stand alongside these remarkable women as we shape a more inclusive and dynamic future for our hotel”.
The arrival of these four dynamic leaders underscores the hotel’s vision of gender-balanced leadership in hospitality, a sector where representation plays a vital role. With their combined expertise, collaborative spirit, and commitment to excellence, the new leadership team is set to inspire associates, elevate guest experiences, and drive long-term success.
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