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.


Conrad Bengaluru Appoints Itha Das as Director of Sales Conference and Events

Conrad Bengaluru Appoints Itha Das as Director of Sales Conference and Events

By Hariharan U

Published on March 23, 2026

Conrad Bengaluru has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Itha Das as Director of Sales Conference and Events, reinforcing the hotel's commitment to delivering exceptional event and catering experiences across corporate, social, and MICE segments.

Das brings considerable depth to the role, with a career built around high-impact events, strategic partnerships, and tailored event solutions that consistently deliver results. Her previous role as Associate Director of Sales at Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway saw her lead strategic sales initiatives and expand business opportunities across corporate events, conferences, and social celebrations. Before that, she held the position of Senior Sales Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, further sharpening her expertise in premium hospitality environments.

In her new role at Conrad Bengaluru, Das will oversee catering and MICE operations with a focus on driving business growth, strengthening client relationships, and curating memorable event experiences for both corporate and social gatherings. She will also work closely with the sales and operations teams to develop event solutions that respond to evolving client needs in a city where the demand for premium meetings, conferences, and weddings continues to grow.

Das shared her excitement about the new role. "I am delighted to join Conrad Bengaluru and be part of a team that is renowned for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. I look forward to leveraging my experience to strengthen the hotel's catering and MICE offerings and create memorable events for our guests and partners."

For Conrad Bengaluru, this appointment signals a clear intent to sharpen its positioning as the go-to destination for premium events in the city. With Das's track record and the hotel's existing reputation, that's a goal that looks well within reach.


Cygnett Hotels Appoints Sujan Ganguly as Area Director – Operations & Pre-Opening

Cygnett Hotels Appoints Sujan Ganguly as Area Director – Operations & Pre-Opening

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 23, 2026

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Sujan Ganguly as Area Director – Operations & Pre-Opening, India & Nepal. This move comes as the company continues to grow its presence across key markets in the region and strengthen its leadership team.

Sujan Ganguly brings over three decades of experience in the hospitality industry, with strong expertise in hotel operations and performance management. He has worked with several well-known brands over the years, including Ginger Hotels, Royal Orchid Hotels, Lords Hotels & Resorts, Fortune Hotels, Taj Hotels, Golden Tulip Hotels, Sarovar Hotels, and Peerless Hotels, building a solid track record across different segments.

Known for his people-focused leadership style, he has handled multiple aspects of hotel management, including operations, pre-opening processes, brand development, and revenue optimisation. His approach has consistently focused on building strong teams and improving operational systems across properties.

In his new role, Sujan Ganguly will oversee operational performance and lead pre-opening initiatives for Cygnett Hotels & Resorts across India and Nepal. His responsibilities will include ensuring smooth operations, maintaining brand standards, and enhancing the overall guest experience across the company’s growing portfolio.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, "We are delighted to welcome Sujan Ganguly to the Cygnett family. His extensive experience across leading hospitality brands and his deep understanding of hotel operations will be a valuable asset as we continue to scale our presence across India and neighbouring markets. Sujan's leadership will play an important role in strengthening operational excellence and ensuring that every new Cygnett property opens with the standards and efficiency that our brand stands for."

The appointment comes at a time when Cygnett Hotels & Resorts is actively expanding, with several properties under development and new openings planned across emerging destinations in India and neighbouring regions.


Novotel Jodhpur Appoints Rajinder Singh as Food & Beverage Manager

Novotel Jodhpur Appoints Rajinder Singh as Food & Beverage Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 20, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur has announced the appointment of Rajinder Singh as its new Food & Beverage Manager, strengthening its leadership team in the culinary and dining segment.

With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Rajinder brings solid expertise in handling end-to-end food and beverage operations across well-known hotel brands. He has worked closely on enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and leading teams to maintain consistent service standards. His experience also includes involvement in pre-opening projects, revenue strategies, and developing new dining concepts.

In his new role, Rajinder will oversee all food and beverage operations at Novotel Jodhpur, including restaurants, banquets, and in-room dining. His focus will be on building a stronger culinary identity for the hotel, introducing fresh and innovative offerings, and ensuring a high level of guest satisfaction, in line with the brand’s standards.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, Novotel Jodhpur, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rajinder to our leadership team. His rich experience and passion for hospitality will play a key role in enhancing our food and beverage offerings. We are confident that his vision and leadership will further elevate the dining experience for our guests.”

Speaking on his new role, Rajinder Singh said, “I am excited to join Novotel Jodhpur and be part of a brand that stands for quality and innovation. I look forward to creating memorable dining experiences and contributing to the continued success of the hotel.”

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