Kaustubh Sur Appointed as General Manager of Le Royal Meridien Chennai

Kaustubh Sur Appointed as General Manager of Le Royal Meridien Chennai

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 19, 2025

Le Royal Meridien Chennai welcomes Kaustubh Sur as its new General Manager, bringing with him nearly two decades of expertise in hospitality management, revenue growth, and commercial operations. His appointment marks an exciting phase for the luxury hotel as it looks to elevate guest experiences and strengthen its market position in Chennai.

A Proven Leader in Hospitality

An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition, Chennai, Kaustubh Sur holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Hospitality Administration and Management. His career journey is a testament to his deep-rooted understanding of the hospitality industry, having successfully led high-end hotels across India and internationally.

Before joining Le Royal Meridien Chennai, Kaustubh served as General Manager at Ascott International Management (Thailand) Limited, where he played a crucial role in driving commercial growth, enhancing revenue streams, and leading hotel operations. During his six-year tenure in Thailand, he oversaw multiple properties, including Oakwood Hotel & Residence Bangkok and Oakwood Hotel Journeyhub Pattaya & Phuket. His strategic leadership helped these hotels refine their positioning in competitive markets while ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

Prior to his international stint, Kaustubh held key roles at Radisson Hotel Group in India, where he worked as Director of Sales and Marketing and later as Executive Assistant Manager – Hotel Operations. His extensive experience in sales, marketing, and operational leadership has equipped him with a well-rounded approach to hospitality management.

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A Vision for Le Royal Meridien Chennai

As he steps into his new role, Kaustubh Sur is set to bring his global expertise and innovative vision to Le Royal Meridien Chennai. His leadership will focus on refining operational efficiency, enhancing service excellence, and introducing fresh strategies to elevate the brand’s positioning in the luxury hospitality segment.

With Chennai emerging as a hub for business and leisure travelers, Kaustubh’s extensive experience in revenue management, customer engagement, and brand development is expected to strengthen the hotel’s appeal to both domestic and international guests.

Kaustubh Sur’s appointment signals a new era for Le Royal Meridien Chennai, where luxury meets innovation under the guidance of an industry leader who understands both the operational and commercial aspects of world-class hospitality.

About Le Royal Meridien Chennai

Le Royal Meridien Chennai is one of the city’s premier luxury hotels, renowned for its elegant architecture, world-class amenities, and impeccable hospitality. Conveniently located near the airport and key business districts, the hotel offers a seamless blend of heritage charm and modern sophistication.

With multiple award-winning restaurants, state-of-the-art event spaces, and a serene spa, Le Royal Meridien Chennai is a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its exceptional service, refined accommodations, and a focus on curated guest experiences.

Under the leadership of Kaustubh Sur, Le Royal Meridien Chennai is set to further strengthen its position as a leader in the city’s luxury hospitality landscape.


DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad Appoints Kritika Arora as HR Manager

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad Appoints Kritika Arora as HR Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad has appointed Kritika Arora as its new human resources manager, marking a return to the hotel where she previously contributed as training executive and assistant manager, HR & Training. With over a decade of experience spanning leading hospitality brands including Hyatt, IHG, Oberoi, and Pride, Arora brings extensive expertise in building strong organisational cultures, fostering employee engagement, and driving talent development.

Before her appointment, Arora served as learning manager at Hyatt, Ahmedabad, where she led talent and training initiatives that enhanced both organisational performance and employee satisfaction. She holds an MBA in Human Resources from Pune University and has undertaken certifications in leadership, train-the-trainer, POSH, and quality assurance.

Commenting on the appointment, Khizer Khan, Hotel Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune - Chinchwad, said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Kritika back to the DoubleTree family. Her proven expertise in HR, coupled with her passion for fostering inclusive and high-performing teams, will play a pivotal role in strengthening our people-first culture.”

Reflecting on her new role, Kritika Arora shared:

“I am excited to return to DoubleTree by Hilton Pune–Chinchwad, a place that has been instrumental in shaping my career. I look forward to building on the hotel’s strong values by creating an environment where people thrive, grow, and deliver exceptional guest experiences.”

With Arora at the helm of HR, the hotel is set to reinforce its commitment to a people-first culture, ensuring team growth and an elevated guest experience across all operations.


Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has announced the appointment of Mariki Sayles as its new Director of Food & Beverage, marking an exciting chapter in the hotel’s culinary evolution. With more than a decade of distinguished international experience spanning India, New York, and beyond, Mariki brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the role.

An award-winning hospitality professional, Mariki was honoured as Mixologist of the Year by The Times of India and served as a judge at ProWine Mumbai 2024, establishing herself as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking F&B leaders. Her diverse experience includes leading beverage operations for Bastian Hospitality’s iconic venues across India, directing transformative consulting projects nationwide, and contributing to the beverage program at New York’s Michelin-starred Le Bernardin.

Throughout her career, Mariki has been recognised for creating and elevating cutting-edge bar and restaurant concepts that blend operational excellence with creative storytelling, crafting experiences that resonate deeply with guests.

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, she will oversee the hotel’s comprehensive food and beverage operations, driving strategy, innovation, and exceptional guest engagement across its acclaimed dining venues, sophisticated banquet facilities, and signature lounges. This appointment underscores the hotel’s dedication to maintaining its leadership position in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Reflecting on her new role, Mariki Sayles shared,

“JW Marriott is synonymous with international standards of excellence, and I am thrilled to contribute to this legacy at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. My vision is to elevate our food and beverage experiences to not only match global benchmarks but also redefine them for the Mumbai market, curating concepts that are innovative, immersive, and unforgettable.”

With her creative vision, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic insight, Mariki’s leadership is set to enhance JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s culinary identity, reaffirming its reputation as the Gateway to Mumbai and a true pioneer of hospitality excellence.


Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

GRT Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Vijaya Kumar as the General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the group’s flagship property. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Kumar brings a wealth of expertise in operations, culinary innovation, and sustainable hospitality practices.

Kumar’s promotion to General Manager marks a significant internal advancement within GRT Hotels & Resorts. He previously served as Cluster Director of Food & Beverage, leading operations across Radisson franchise GRT hotels, and has contributed 17 years of dedicated service to the group across multiple properties. His experience also includes tenures with renowned brands such as Taj, ITC, and SRM Hotels.

Passionate about community impact, Kumar has spearheaded initiatives like Chef Amudhupadai, a program to feed underprivileged children, collaborated with local farmers for organic produce, introduced Braille menus and allergen-friendly dining, and trained differently-abled individuals in hospitality and bakery sectors.

Commenting on the appointment, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said:

“We are delighted to appoint Mr. Vijaya Kumar as General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels. His journey reflects our commitment to nurturing talent from within. Beginning his career as a professional chef, he combines culinary creativity with operational insight, equipping him with a deep understanding of guest experience and hospitality operations. Under his stewardship, Grand Chennai will continue to set new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and brand excellence.”

Speaking about his new role, Vijaya Kumar added:

“It is a privilege to lead Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the flagship property of a brand that has set benchmarks in Indian hospitality for nearly three decades. My focus will be on crafting meaningful guest experiences, championing sustainability, and creating a destination that truly reflects the essence of GRT Hotels. Together with my team, I look forward to carrying this tradition forward while setting new standards for excellence.”

Kumar holds a diploma in hotel management from IHM Chennai, alongside multiple postgraduate degrees including an MBA in Human Resources, MA in Public Administration, and a Master’s in Tourism Management. He is also certified in ISO 22000, AHLA programs, and is an accredited trainer and auditor.

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