Kunal Vasudeva Appointed Co-Founder and Managing Director of Indian School of Hospitality

Kunal Vasudeva Appointed Co-Founder and Managing Director of Indian School of Hospitality

By Author

Published on August 14, 2023

Indian School of Hospitality (ISH), a leading institution in Hospitality and Culinary Arts education, has named Kunal Vasudeva as its Co-Founder and Managing Director, effective from August 01, 2023.

Formerly the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Vasudeva's new role as MD aligns with ISH's integration into Sommet Education, a global leader in hospitality management, based in Switzerland. With a portfolio including esteemed brands like Les Roches, Glion, and Ecole Ducasse, Sommet Education's collaboration reinforces ISH's commitment to excellence. Vasudeva's responsibilities encompass expanding ISH's academic offerings, ensuring exceptional standards in line with global benchmarks, and leveraging the new National Education Policy to foster multi-disciplinary education of international caliber in India.

Dilip Puri, the current Founder and CEO of ISH, will transition into the role of Founder and Executive Chairman. "Kunal has been a part of ISH since its inception and has demonstrated his knowledge, passion and dedication in bringing ISH up to the level it is at in a short span of six years. I look forward to his leadership as we steer the institution towards a future full of opportunities with the rapidly changing landscape of higher education in India," stated Dilip Puri.

Reflecting on his new position, Vasudeva expressed, "Assuming the role of Co-Founder and Managing Director at ISH is a profound honour and a call to action. It amplifies our mission to position India at the forefront of global hospitality and culinary education, fanning the flames of innovation and setting world-class benchmarks. We stand at the cusp of India’s remarkable growth story. Our role is not merely to witness, but to actively contribute to this narrative by moulding a generation of learners who will raise the bar in the hospitality industry, globally. Drawing strength from Dilip’s transformative vision, we aim to transcend the conventional contours of education. We seek to foster a learning environment where creativity is ignited, where ideas are born, and where leaders emerge."

Image Reference: Kunal Vasudev LinkedIn


Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Appoints Saurav Datta as Director of Sales & Marketing

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Appoints Saurav Datta as Director of Sales & Marketing

By Hariharan U

Published on May 8, 2026

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of Saurav Datta as Director of Sales & Marketing, strengthening the hotel’s leadership team as it continues to expand its market presence.

Bringing over 23 years of experience across luxury and upper-upscale hospitality brands, Saurav combines operational expertise with strong commercial acumen. His professional journey includes more than a decade in hotel operations, followed by 13 years in sales and marketing leadership roles.

Saurav began his Hyatt journey at Grand Hyatt Mumbai in 2004 within Food & Beverage operations before transitioning into sales and marketing. Over the years, he has held leadership roles across prominent hospitality brands including Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Le Méridien Hyderabad, and Le Méridien Nagpur, contributing to revenue growth and market expansion initiatives.

He rejoined Hyatt in 2023 at Hyatt Regency Chennai, where he played a significant role in shaping commercial strategy while also supporting Hyatt Pune as Acting General Manager.

In his new role at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, Saurav will lead the hotel’s sales and marketing strategy with a focus on driving revenue growth across key segments and strengthening the property’s positioning within the competitive luxury hospitality landscape.

Speaking on his appointment, Saurav Datta said, “I look forward to working with the team to further strengthen the hotel’s market presence while delivering meaningful guest experiences that define the Grand Hyatt brand.”

Known for his collaborative leadership style and strategic approach, Saurav has consistently delivered strong business performance while building high-performing teams across multiple hospitality markets.

His appointment reflects Hyatt’s continued focus on strengthening leadership capabilities and driving long-term growth across key destinations in India.


Hyatt Regency Pune Appoints Ray Jonathan Dopaishi as Director of Finance

Hyatt Regency Pune Appoints Ray Jonathan Dopaishi as Director of Finance

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 8, 2026

Hyatt Regency Pune has welcomed Ray Jonathan Dopaishi as its new Director of Finance. With more than 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ray brings strong expertise in financial strategy, compliance, operational excellence, and business performance.

Over the course of his career, he has worked with globally recognised hospitality brands including Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, and Accor. Known for his focused and results-driven approach, Ray has built a reputation for maintaining high standards in financial management while supporting long-term business growth.

He also brings valuable experience in improving operational processes, strengthening financial controls, and developing high-performing teams. His leadership style is aligned with Hyatt’s values and vision, further supporting the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for both guests and colleagues.

At Hyatt Regency Pune, Ray will lead the finance function with a focus on enhancing financial performance, ensuring compliance, and contributing to the property’s continued growth journey.

The hotel management believes his industry expertise and strategic approach will play an important role in strengthening operational efficiency and supporting the brand’s future goals.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Promotes Mohammed Akhil as Operations Manager

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Promotes Mohammed Akhil as Operations Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 8, 2026

Novotel Vijayawada Varun has announced the promotion of Mohammed Akhil as the hotel’s new Operations Manager. Akhil has been associated with the property for several years and most recently served as Director of Sales & Marketing, where he played an important role in strengthening the hotel’s market presence, driving revenue growth, and building strategic partnerships.

With over 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Akhil brings expertise across operations, sales, and marketing. Over the years, he has worked with leading hospitality brands and was also a part of the pre-opening team at Novotel Vijayawada Varun, contributing to the successful launch of the property.

In addition to his professional experience, he has completed industrial training focused on quality and hospitality operations, further strengthening his operational understanding.

Commenting on the promotion, Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said, “Mohammed Akhil’s journey with Novotel Vijayawada Varun has been defined by consistency, commitment and a strong understanding of both business and guest expectations. His contributions over the years have been invaluable. I wish him all the best for his new role as Operations Manager.”

In his new position, Akhil will oversee the hotel’s day-to-day operations with a focus on operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, compliance, and service excellence. He will also work closely with different departments to streamline processes, manage budgets, and ensure smooth coordination across the property.

The management at Novotel Vijayawada Varun believes that Akhil’s experience and leadership will continue to strengthen the hotel’s focus on delivering high-quality hospitality experiences for guests.

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