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.


Keventers Appoints Shaurya Prabhat as CEO

Keventers Appoints Shaurya Prabhat as CEO

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

Keventers has appointed Shaurya Prabhat as its Chief Executive Officer, marking a new phase of leadership for the heritage brand. He succeeds Agastya Dalmia, who played a key role in bringing the brand back into the spotlight for a new generation of consumers.

An eight-year veteran of the company, Shaurya joined Keventers in 2017 to lead business development when the brand was largely franchise-driven. Over time, he took on wider responsibilities across strategy, operations, marketing, HR, and business excellence, eventually shaping the company’s overall direction.

Before joining Keventers, he worked with The Smart Cube, advising global clients across industries such as retail, banking, pharma, and oil and gas. Academically, he holds a degree from University of London and a master’s from University of Warwick.

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Shaurya Prabhat said, “I'd like to thank the Board for entrusting me with the responsibility of shaping the company's next phase of growth. What I've learned over eight years is that the mission never really changes: grow the company, grow the brand, and do it with honesty. If you manage your inputs with excellence, the outcomes take care of themselves. I'm extremely excited about the vast opportunities ahead for us.”

As part of his immediate plans, Shaurya is looking to open 70 new outlets over the next year, with a larger goal of significantly scaling the business over the coming years. The brand is also exploring opportunities beyond outlets, including retail, FMCG, quick commerce, and institutional sales, aligning with its broader vision of building a multi-brand food and beverage portfolio.

Keventers is also sharpening its focus on younger consumers, especially Gen Z, by creating products and experiences that connect with their preferences. From menu innovations like waffles and boba to a stronger presence on social media, the brand is adapting to changing consumer behaviour while staying rooted in its legacy.

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Commenting on the transition, Agastya Dalmia said, “I have worked alongside Shaurya for over eight years and known him for longer - I have seen how he thinks, how he leads, and how deeply he cares about this brand. He has led almost all significant decisions we have taken over the years and helped us navigate through the most complex of situations – from Covid and restructuring our business model to fundraising and governance. I could not be prouder of what we have built together, and I could not be more confident about what he will build next.”

Founded in 1925, Keventers continues to be one of India’s most recognised food and beverage brands, known for its milkshakes, waffles, and ice creams, with a growing presence across major cities.


MRG Group Appoints Sujata Gowda as Group GM Marketing & Communications

MRG Group Appoints Sujata Gowda as Group GM Marketing & Communications

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

MRG Group has appointed Sujata Gowda as Group General ManagerMarketing & Communications, strengthening its leadership team as it prepares for its next phase of growth.

With over 19 years of experience across airlines, hospitality, real estate, and media, Sujata brings a well-rounded understanding of brand building and strategic communication. Over the years, she has worked with leading names such as Sahara Airlines, Kingfisher Airlines, Taj Hotels, IHG, and Marriott International.

Her career has included key roles in pre-opening hotel projects across cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad, before moving to Bengaluru. Beyond hospitality, she has also built experience in media and partnerships, most recently serving as Regional Head – Brand & Partnership at Times Internet Limited, where she worked on strategic collaborations linked to a major card launch with ICICI Bank.

Sujata’s expertise spans multiple areas including sales, marketing, operations, brand strategy, media planning, corporate communications, and team management. Her strong relationships across print, electronic, and digital media are expected to support the group’s efforts to expand its brand presence and reach.

Sharing her thoughts on the new role, Sujata Gowda said, “A new fresh start is always nerve-recking and exciting at the same time. Marketing & communication in today's day and age is a pivotal role. I couldn't have joined MRG Group at a better time as this is going to be the year of expansion, dynamic changes and accelerated growth. Extremely excited to collate my 19 years of expertise with fostering collaborations with existing teams as the best time for new beginning is NOW.”

With this appointment, MRG Group continues to invest in experienced leadership as it looks to scale operations and strengthen its market positioning.


Hilton Manyata Appoints Ashish Singh as Director of Sales

Hilton Manyata Appoints Ashish Singh as Director of Sales

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park has appointed Ashish Singh as Director of Sales, strengthening its leadership team as it continues to expand its presence in Bengaluru’s competitive hospitality market.

With over 13 years of experience in hospitality sales and business development, Singh brings a strong track record of driving revenue growth, identifying new business opportunities, and building long-term client relationships across corporate and MICE segments.

He joins from The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, where he served as Director of Catering and played a key role in managing high-impact events while improving catering performance. His journey with the brand also included roles such as Assistant Director of Sales and Senior Sales Manager, reflecting his steady growth and deep understanding of market trends.

Singh’s experience also includes working with leading hospitality brands like Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru and The Park Hotels, giving him a well-rounded perspective on sales leadership in urban markets.

In his new role, he will lead the property’s sales strategy with a focus on driving growth, strengthening corporate relationships, and expanding market share. His responsibilities will include building strategic partnerships, improving revenue streams, and positioning the hotel as a preferred choice for business travel and large-scale events.

With this appointment, Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park continues to invest in experienced talent, further strengthening its position in Bengaluru’s growing hospitality landscape

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