Leadership Change at WTTCII: Deep Kalra Takes the Helm for 2024-2025 Term

Leadership Change at WTTCII: Deep Kalra Takes the Helm for 2024-2025 Term

By Author

Published on December 14, 2023

In a significant announcement, the World Travel and Tourism Council, India Initiative (WTTCII), has appointed Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman of MakeMyTrip India Pvt. Ltd, as Chairperson and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director of the Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, as Vice Chairperson for the upcoming term from 2024 to 2025.

Deep Kalra expressed his respect for WTTCII's distinguished heritage and visionary initiatives, emphasizing the organization's commendable 23-year legacy. Kalra highlighted the importance of collaborating with states, citing their active engagement with the Goa Tourism Board and a recently formalized strategic MoU with the Government of West Bengal to craft a comprehensive marketing and PR roadmap. He stressed the need for impactful partnerships with states and active collaboration to contribute insights to the central government's priorities, aligning with Prime Minister Modi and the Ministry of Tourism initiatives.

Dr. Jyotsna Suri reflected on the evolution of India's tourism landscape since the inception of WTTCII in 2000. She commended the substantial progress made under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of Tourism, emphasizing the organization's commitment to contributing to the ongoing tourism revolution. Dr. Suri highlighted the recent whitepaper, 'Policy Reforms for Indian Hotel and Hospitality Sector,' calling upon states to streamline business environments, foster increased investments, employment, and local livelihood opportunities.

The leadership change sees Deep Kalra taking over from Dinesh Khanna, Executive Director of Eastern International Hotels Ltd, who served as Chairman of WTTCII for the 2022-2023 term. The appointments aim to leverage the collective expertise within the membership base to elevate tourism initiatives, especially at the state level. WTTCII's emphasis on advancing tourism initiatives within states aligns with their goal of stimulating local tourism economies.

In related developments, former Union Secretary of Tourism and Secretary General of WTTCII, Sujit Banerjee, has joined the Advisory Board of the GSTC India Working Group. Banerjee expressed enthusiasm for advancing India's tourism sustainability agenda, aiming to position the country as a global focal point for sustainability initiatives through collaborative efforts.

As Deep Kalra assumes the role of Chairperson and Dr. Jyotsna Suri takes on the responsibilities of Vice Chairperson, WTTCII looks forward to continued contributions to India's tourism growth and sustainability. The organization remains committed to fostering partnerships, streamlining policies, and supporting initiatives that enhance the overall tourism landscape in India.


Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore appoints Sahil Ranaut as general manager

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore appoints Sahil Ranaut as general manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 14, 2025

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore has announced the appointment of Sahil Ranaut as its new general manager. In this role, Ranaut will lead the hotel’s dynamic team and oversee all operations, with a strong focus on elevating guest experiences and driving impactful business results.

Ranaut brings over 16 years of progressive experience in the hospitality industry, having started his career with Marriott in 2009 as a Voyager Management Trainee in revenue management. His journey includes notable tenures with both Marriott and IHG Group before joining Hyatt in 2019.

Most recently, he served as Area Director of Revenue Management at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, where he successfully led revenue strategies for 14 hotels across southern India, demonstrating a results-driven approach complemented by creativity and precision.

Ranaut’s leadership style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, emphasizing that genuine human connection is the foundation of impactful hospitality. His approach balances ambitious business goals with creativity, fueled by his passion for culinary arts and attention to detail.

Reflecting on his new role, Sahil Ranaut said, “As I begin this exciting new phase, I’m truly looking forward to collaborating closely with our incredible Hyatt colleagues to elevate the guest experience while driving impactful business results. I remain deeply grateful to the mentors and teammates who have shaped my journey so far, your guidance, support, and belief have made all the difference. Here’s to continued growth, meaningful partnerships, and creating memorable moments for our guests and teams alike.”

With this appointment, Hyatt Centric MG Road continues to strengthen its leadership and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences infused with energy, style, and purpose.


Fortune Hotels appoints Anuj Chaurasia as General Manager – Business Development

Fortune Hotels appoints Anuj Chaurasia as General Manager – Business Development

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 14, 2025

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels Group, has announced the appointment of Anuj Chaurasia as General Manager, Business Development, based out of its corporate headquarters in Gurugram.

With over 17 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Chaurasia brings deep expertise in business development, brand expansion, and strategic partnerships. In his new role, he will spearhead the brand’s business development initiatives and contribute to the growth and expansion of the Fortune Hotels portfolio across key markets in India.

Prior to joining Fortune Hotels, Chaurasia held leadership roles with several reputed hospitality brands including Royal Orchid Hotels Limited, Treebo Hospitality Ventures Private Limited, Spree Hospitality, Lemon Tree Hotels, and Taj Hotels and Resorts.

Most recently, he served as Vice President, Licensed Brands Development at Treebo Hospitality Ventures Private Limited, where he successfully led the development of master franchisee brands such as Park Inn and Suites by Radisson, Mercure Hotels, and Ibis Hotels.

Fortune Hotels said that Chaurasia’s appointment marks a significant step in strengthening its leadership and expanding its footprint across India’s growing hospitality landscape.


Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Nikhil Kher as General Manager

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Nikhil Kher as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 14, 2025

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Nikhil Kher as its new General Manager, marking a significant addition to its leadership team as the resort continues to establish itself among Rajasthan’s most distinguished luxury destinations.

With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in luxury hospitality, Kher brings deep expertise in operations, brand building, and guest experience management across several of India’s most reputed hotel brands. Known for his strategic acumen and people-first leadership, he has successfully guided teams to achieve operational excellence, elevate service standards, and deliver authentic, memorable guest experiences.

In his new role, Kher will oversee complete operations at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, driving performance across rooms, dining, wellness, and guest engagement. He will also lead the resort’s business strategy and market positioning, ensuring that every aspect of the guest journey reflects the warmth, heritage, and cultural spirit of Rajasthan. Under his leadership, the property aims to further strengthen its reputation as a destination where luxury meets storytelling.

Prior to joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, Kher held key leadership positions across leading hospitality brands, where he was instrumental in improving performance metrics, expanding market presence, and fostering a culture of service excellence. His career is marked by an unwavering focus on guest satisfaction, attention to detail, and team development.

Speaking on his appointment, Nikhil Kher said,

“It is an honour to lead Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, a property that captures the timeless beauty and spirit of Rajasthan. My vision is to blend world-class hospitality with the authenticity of the desert’s heritage, creating experiences that resonate deeply with every guest. I look forward to building on the resort’s strong foundation and guiding the team towards new milestones of success.”

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