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.


The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Manish Naresh Deolekar as GM-Operations for Maharashtra

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Appoints Manish Naresh Deolekar as GM-Operations for Maharashtra

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 5, 2024

The Fern Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Manish Naresh Deolekar as General Manager - Operations for Maharashtra. In his new role, Deolekar will be responsible for overseeing the operations of eight of the group’s hotels across the state, including properties in Bhiwandi-Pimplas, Ganpatipule, Igatpuri, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Palghar.

A seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience, Deolekar brings a wealth of knowledge to his new position. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in hospitality from the prestigious Pacific International Hotel Management School in New Zealand. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree from India, further solidifying his strong foundation in both hospitality and business management.

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Deolekar’s career began as a management trainee with Taj Hotels, where he developed his skills in luxury service and hotel operations. Over the years, he has held leadership roles at internationally renowned brands such as Marriott, Starwood, and Rydges Hotels & Resorts. His work at these brands has been instrumental in enhancing guest experiences and driving operational efficiency.

His diverse experience across multiple hospitality brands, combined with his commitment to excellence, makes him a valuable addition to The Fern’s leadership team. Deolekar's leadership is expected to significantly contribute to the continued success and growth of The Fern’s properties in Maharashtra, a key region for the brand.

Deolekar’s appointment is part of The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ broader strategy to strengthen its operations in Maharashtra, ensuring that each property maintains the highest standards of guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.


Sujay S. Mungikar Named Head Chef at Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport

Sujay S. Mungikar Named Head Chef at Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 5, 2024

Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport has appointed Sujay S. Mungikar as the new Head Chef. Chef Sujay brings 17 years of diverse culinary experience to the recently opened property, where he will lead all culinary operations with a focus on menu innovation, quality assurance, and team development.

Chef Sujay aims to create a collaborative kitchen environment that inspires creativity among his team, ultimately enhancing the guest dining experience. He has been recognized in the industry for his dedication to maintaining high standards of food safety and exceptional customer service.

“We welcome Chef Sujay to the Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport. We look forward to seeing our guests enjoy a memorable dining experience with his creatively inspired signature dishes, as well as local and global favorites that he recreates using innovative techniques that he has mastered over nearly two decades in the business,” said Amit Jain, General Manager.

“I can’t wait to serve guests at the Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport with an exciting, innovative, and memorable dining experience that marries local flavors with some of the best international culinary techniques,” said Chef Sujay.

Over his career, Chef Sujay has held prominent roles at renowned establishments, including Courtyard by Marriott Hinjewadi, where he led food production and menu planning. He also served as Chef De Cuisine at Holiday Inn Cochin and held Sous Chef positions at Hyatt Regency Pune and Taj Santacruz.

His experience as a Culinary Trainer and Consultant highlights his skills in staff training and maintaining operational excellence. Chef Sujay holds a Bachelor’s degree in Catering Technology and Culinary Arts from the Culinary Academy of India in Hyderabad. His extensive expertise and passion for the culinary arts make him a valuable addition to the Hyatt Place team.


Sita Lekshmi Appointed General Manager of Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

Sita Lekshmi Appointed General Manager of Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 4, 2024

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel has announced the appointment of Sita Lekshmi as its new General Manager. With an impressive 18-year journey in the hospitality industry, Lekshmi is celebrated for her innovative approach and strategic vision, making her a natural fit for the role.

Prior to this appointment, Lekshmi served as the General Manager at Aloft Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, where she excelled in driving business growth and enhancing guest experiences. Her academic credentials include a B.Sc. in Hospitality Administration from IHM Kovalam, an MBA in Human Resources Management, and a PGDM in Guest Service Management from the Oberoi Centre of Learning & Development, all of which have contributed to her well-rounded expertise in the industry.

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Known for her trendsetter spirit, Lekshmi has a remarkable ability to identify new business opportunities while fostering a nurturing environment that encourages talent growth. She has earned a reputation for elevating brand standards and creating personalized guest experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sita Lekshmi is an active member of the hospitality community, serving as a state council member of the Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce, India, Hospitality and Tourism – Karnataka chapter. Her passion for holistic well-being extends to her personal life, where she balances her busy schedule with fitness, yoga, and creative hobbies like painting and gardening.

With a deep understanding of guest services and leadership in hospitality, Lekshmi’s appointment signals a new era for Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, focusing on employee satisfaction, guest excellence, and community engagement.

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