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.”

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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.


Rakesh Sethi Appointed GM at Jaipur Marriott

Rakesh Sethi Appointed GM at Jaipur Marriott

By Hariharan U

Published on February 11, 2026

Jaipur Marriott Hotel has announced the appointment of Rakesh Sethi as its new General Manager, effective February 10, 2026, marking a significant leadership move for one of Rajasthan’s prominent luxury hotels.

With over 27 years of diverse experience in the hospitality sector, Sethi brings deep expertise in operations, commercial strategy, and guest-centric service to the Pink City. In his new role, he will be responsible for steering the hotel’s strategic direction, strengthening its market positioning, and consistently delivering memorable guest experiences, while nurturing a workplace culture built on collaboration, accountability, and continuous growth.

 A seasoned hospitality professional, Sethi has held leadership roles with leading brands such as Hyatt, Taj, Shangri-La, and Radisson, giving him wide exposure across luxury, upscale, and business hotel segments.

His strong background in operations, sales and marketing, revenue management, and customer experience positions him well to lead the 374-key Jaipur Marriott Hotel, which also features one of the largest banquet facilities in Rajasthan, catering to leisure travellers, corporate events, and destination weddings. Prior to this appointment, Sethi served as General Manager at Radisson Blu Dwarka, where he was recognised for his hands-on leadership style, people-first approach, and consistent focus on sustainable business


Alila Fort Bishangarh appoints Amit Kumar Verma as chief engineer

Alila Fort Bishangarh appoints Amit Kumar Verma as chief engineer

By Hariharan U

Published on February 11, 2026

Alila Fort Bishangarh has announced the appointment of Amit Kumar Verma as its chief engineer, bringing over 15 years of hospitality engineering and technical operations experience to the 236-year-old heritage fortress hotel in Rajasthan.

 In his new role, Verma will oversee all engineering and maintenance functions, with a focus on strengthening operational efficiency, sustainability practices and infrastructure reliability across the property. Originally from Chandigarh, Verma holds a degree from Punjab Technical University and brings wide-ranging experience across hospitality and commercial organisations.

Prior to joining Alila Fort Bishangarh, he was associated with Hyatt Place Bharuch, and has previously worked with brands including ITC, Club Mahindra, Deltron, The Lalit, Radisson and Phoenix United, where he led engineering operations, preventive maintenance programmes and technical project execution. Known for his adaptable, detail-oriented approach, Verma places strong emphasis on reliability, safety and continuous improvement, while believing in leading with integrity and humility to deliver high-impact solutions in complex operating environments. He also aligns closely with Hyatt’s people-first culture and the Alila brand’s design-led, nature-connected philosophy, and looks forward to contributing to the continued evolution of Alila Fort Bishangarh as a luxury heritage destination set in the Aravalli Hills


Pramod Kumar Sahu Joins Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel as Assistant Manager of Housekeeping

Pramod Kumar Sahu Joins Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel as Assistant Manager of Housekeeping

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 11, 2026

Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel has welcomed Pramod Kumar Sahu as the Assistant Manager of Housekeeping, effective from Jan 15 th 2026. The appointment reflects the hotel’s continued focus on strengthening its operations and enhancing overall guest experience.

With his experience in the hospitality industry, Pramod Kumar Sahu is known for his strong field-related skills and a hands-on approach to housekeeping operations. His understanding of service standards and attention to detail have helped elevate guest experiences in his previous roles.

In his new role at Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, he is expected to support the housekeeping team in maintaining high standards of cleanliness, comfort and efficiency across the property. His guest-first mindset and operational knowledge are set to contribute positively to the hotel’s service journey.

The team at Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel looks forward to his contribution and wishes him success in this new responsibility.

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