Kempinski Hotels Welcomes Barbara Muckermann as New CEO

Kempinski Hotels Welcomes Barbara Muckermann as New CEO

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 25, 2024

Kempinski Hotels, Europe's oldest luxury hotel group, is excited to announce the appointment of Barbara Muckermann as their new Chief Executive Officer. With an impressive background in the luxury travel industry, Muckermann brings over 25 years of experience to this prestigious role. She previously led Silversea Cruises, part of Royal Caribbean Group, which is renowned as the world's largest ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line.

Muckermann joins Kempinski at a pivotal time. The iconic hospitality brand, with its 127-year tradition of excellence, is preparing for significant global expansion. Currently operating 82 hotels in 36 countries, Kempinski aims to add 34 more properties to its portfolio in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa over the next few years. This strategic growth is intended to further cement Kempinski's reputation for providing unparalleled luxury and exceptional service.

René Nijhof, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Kempinski Hotels S.A., expressed his confidence in Muckermann's leadership. "Barbara has always been at the forefront of luxury. Her proven ability to elevate the guest experience while maximizing profitability for leading travel brands made her the ideal choice to lead Kempinski Hotels. Her dynamic, forward-thinking approach will be vital as we continue to usher in a new era of luxury for our brand."

Muckermann is the first woman to lead Kempinski Hotels in its 127-year history. She expressed her excitement about joining the company, stating, "I could not be more thrilled to be joining Kempinski Hotels as CEO during such a pivotal time for the brand. I am delighted to play an integral role in this incredibly iconic brand’s next chapter while honoring its rich history. I look forward to working with amazing colleagues globally to continue to make the Kempinski name synonymous with individual luxury."

Throughout her career, Muckermann has significantly enhanced sales and profitability while upgrading customer experiences for global luxury brands such as Loro Piana, MSC Cruises, and NCL. Her extensive international experience, having lived in Italy, France, and the USA, and her proficiency in five languages, underscore her global perspective and capability. Additionally, she holds a Doctorate in Political Sciences and Economics and an MBA from both Columbia and London Business School.

Kempinski Hotels is known for its unique and legendary properties, each reflecting the cultural traditions of their locations while maintaining the high standards expected of the brand. As the company looks forward to expanding its presence, Muckermann's leadership is expected to guide Kempinski through this exciting phase, reinforcing its position as a leader in luxury hospitality.

With this new appointment, Kempinski Hotels continues to build on its rich heritage, combining tradition with innovation to offer the finest experiences in the world of luxury hospitality.


Hyatt Centric Chandigarh Promotes Vaishali Bali to Director of Marketing

Hyatt Centric Chandigarh Promotes Vaishali Bali to Director of Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 23, 2026

Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh has promoted Vaishali Bali to Director of Marketing, recognising her contribution to the hotel's brand growth and marketing initiatives. She previously served as Marketing & Communications Manager and will now lead the hotel's overall marketing and communications strategy, digital initiatives, public relations, brand positioning and strategic partnerships.

In her new role, Bali will focus on driving business growth, strengthening the hotel's market presence and further establishing it as a lifestyle destination in the heart of Chandigarh.

With over a decade of experience in hospitality marketing and communications, Bali brings expertise in brand management, digital marketing, media relations and integrated marketing campaigns. Before joining Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh, she worked as PR & Marketing Manager at Alila Diwa Goa, where she led branding, digital initiatives, public relations and influencer collaborations.

Earlier in her career, she was associated with The Club Mumbai, part of Khanna Hotels. She progressed from Sales Executive to Deputy Marketing Manager, overseeing marketing initiatives, strategic alliances and brand engagement activities.

During her tenure as Marketing & Communications Manager at Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh, Bali played an important role in strengthening the hotel's brand positioning, expanding its digital presence and building its profile in Chandigarh's hospitality and lifestyle market. Her marketing initiatives contributed to increased website traffic, improved traffic quality and stronger direct booking performance.

She was also instrumental in the hotel's participation in Hyatt Centric's global "Start Here. Discover Everywhere." campaign, with Chandigarh selected as the only participating hotel from India alongside international destinations.

Her work has included social media collaborations with personalities such as Atul Kasbekar and Nitibha Kaul. She has also contributed to the launch and positioning of PVT LTD, described as Chandigarh's first speakeasy, and continued brand-building initiatives for KOYO KOYO.

During this period, the hotel received several industry accolades, including Best City Hotel at Travel + Leisure India's Best Awards 2025. Its dining venues also earned recognition at the Travel + Leisure Delicious Dining Awards 2026, reflecting the hotel's growing brand visibility and lifestyle offering.

Commenting on her promotion, Vaishali Bali, Director of Marketing at Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh, said, "I am delighted to take on this expanded responsibility and continue my journey with Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh. In my new role, I will continue to drive business growth, strengthen the hotel's brand positioning, and explore fresh opportunities to connect with our audiences. My focus will be on creating impactful marketing initiatives, showcasing the hotel's distinctive experiences, and building meaningful partnerships that further establish our presence in the market."

The promotion highlights Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh's focus on recognising talent and strengthening its leadership team as it continues to develop its lifestyle offering and build stronger connections with the local community.


Chef Md. Arif Qureshi Leads Culinary Operations at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida

Chef Md. Arif Qureshi Leads Culinary Operations at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2026

Chef Md. Arif Qureshi serves as Chef de Cuisine at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida, bringing around 15 years of culinary experience across luxury hospitality properties in India and international markets. His expertise spans all-day dining, menu development, food production, banquet management and kitchen operations.

Throughout his career, Chef Qureshi has worked with several established hospitality brands, including The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur; Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort, Ras Al Khaimah; Le Méridien Gurgaon; DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Residences, Al Barsha, Dubai; Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani Square; and The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi.

His experience across these properties has exposed him to diverse culinary environments, varying guest expectations and the operational requirements of luxury hotel kitchens.

Chef Qureshi specialises in menu planning, recipe development, food preparation, all-day dining and large-scale banquet operations. His work focuses on maintaining consistency in food quality, taste and presentation while adhering to food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards.

His responsibilities also extend to team coordination, staff mentoring and daily kitchen management. These areas play an important role in ensuring smooth food production across different dining formats and service requirements.

Managing culinary operations in a hotel environment requires coordination between kitchen teams, service staff and other departments, particularly during high-volume dining periods and large events. Chef Qureshi's experience across established hotel operations has equipped him to manage these requirements while maintaining quality and operational efficiency.

At Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida, he contributes to the property's food and beverage operations, with a focus on all-day dining, menu execution and kitchen team management.

With experience spanning leading hospitality brands in India and overseas, Chef Qureshi continues to focus on culinary development, efficient kitchen operations and delivering consistent dining experiences.


Hyatt Centric Janakpuri Appoints Malkeet Singh as Human Resources Manager

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri Appoints Malkeet Singh as Human Resources Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2026

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi, has appointed Malkeet Singh as Human Resources Manager, strengthening its focus on talent development, colleague engagement and workplace culture. Singh brings 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with established hotel groups including Hyatt, Radisson and IHG.

Before joining Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, Singh served as Associate Director of Human Resources at Radisson Group. His professional experience also includes HR leadership positions at Radisson Noida, Holiday Inn Amritsar and Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram.

Throughout his career, Singh has developed expertise in talent management, colleague engagement and team development. His experience includes working with established hotel operations and contributing to pre-opening initiatives, giving him exposure to different aspects of hospitality human resources.

In his new role, Singh will focus on supporting colleague growth, fostering an engaging workplace and strengthening the hotel's people-focused culture.

Commenting on his appointment, Singh said, “Every day is an opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s growth and experience. I believe that when people feel heard, engaged and motivated, they can achieve their best. I look forward to bringing this philosophy to Hyatt Centric Janakpuri and creating an environment where colleagues feel valued and inspired to grow.”

The appointment reflects Hyatt Centric Janakpuri's continued emphasis on nurturing talent and creating a positive work environment where colleagues can develop professionally and contribute to the hotel's operations.

About Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri is a lifestyle hotel located in West Delhi, offering access to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Janakpuri West Metro Station, Pacific Mall and major city attractions. The property features contemporary accommodation and a multi-cuisine restaurant, Kitchen District.

With extensive banquet facilities for weddings, corporate events and social celebrations, the hotel also offers a fitness centre, poolside facilities and a spa.

For more information, visit the official hotel website.

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