M. Santosh Kumar Joins DoubleTree Hilton Goa-Panaji as Executive Chef

M. Santosh Kumar Joins DoubleTree Hilton Goa-Panaji as Executive Chef

By Author

Published on October 9, 2023

The DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji is thrilled to welcome M. Santosh Kumar as its Executive Chef, bringing a wealth of culinary expertise and experience to the team. With a career spanning continents and numerous accolades, Chef M. Santosh is all set to take the culinary experience to new heights.

Expressing his gratitude, Chef M. Santosh says, "My passion for exploring new flavors and creating unique culinary experiences drives me every day. It is a privilege to continue pushing the boundaries of gastronomy as part of Goa's vibrant culinary culture."

Chef Santosh's impressive journey in the culinary world includes roles at prestigious establishments such as Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia, Zuri White Sands Goa Resort & Casino, Fortune Miramar Goa, and his most recent position at Park Regis Goa. His achievements include being named 'the most admired chef of 2022' by the World Leadership Congress-Asia, receiving the 2017-18 Best Chocolate Showpiece award, and winning the Silver award for the best wedding cake at Aahar F&B Expo. His dedication also earned him titles like Employee of the Month and Best Team Player during his tenure at Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia.

Chef M. Santosh has further honed his culinary skills by working alongside celebrity chefs such as Chef Marco Pierre White, Chef Trevor, and Chef Atul Kocchar, solidifying his reputation as a culinary virtuoso.

Beyond the kitchen, Chef M. Santosh finds joy in exploring new destinations, immersing himself in local cultures, savoring authentic culinary delights, and seeking tranquility in offbeat trekking locations.

Harshad Nalawade, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "We are delighted to welcome Chef M. Santosh to our culinary team, an extraordinary chef whose love for travel, authentic experiences, and fine cuisine adds a unique and exciting flair to our resort. His exceptional talent and culinary expertise will elevate our dining options and provide our guests with a truly unforgettable experience."


Taronish Karkaria Appointed General Manager of Taj West End Bengaluru

Taronish Karkaria Appointed General Manager of Taj West End Bengaluru

By Hariharan U

Published on September 1, 2025

Taj West End, Bengaluru has announced the appointment of Taronish Karkaria as its new general manager. A second-generation hotelier, Karkaria brings more than 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, combining operational expertise with a strong focus on guest experience and team development.

He has been a prominent leader within the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), successfully leading several of its flagship properties. Most recently, he served as the pre-opening general manager of Taj Gandhinagar Resort & Spa, and prior to that, as director of operations at Taj Palace, New Delhi the country’s largest luxury convention hotel. His career also includes leadership roles at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai and Taj Lands End, Mumbai.

In his new role at Taj West End, Karkaria will focus on advancing strategic operations, enhancing bespoke guest experiences, and introducing initiatives that strengthen the hotel’s legacy as one of Bengaluru’s most treasured landmarks.

Satyajeet Krishnan, Senior Vice President – Operations, South, IHCL, said, “Taronish brings forth an extensive expertise across operations and proven ability to elevate guest experiences. His leadership will play a key role in further strengthening the hotel’s position as one of the city’s most distinguished luxury destinations”.

Sharing his excitement, Karkaria said, “Taj West End is a true icon of Bengaluru’s hospitality landscape. I am excited to continue its legacy while crafting meaningful experiences for our guests, blending warmth and innovation with the hotel’s timeless charm”.

With his wealth of experience and deep understanding of IHCL’s service ethos, Karkaria is poised to lead Taj West End into its next chapter of growth while maintaining its reputation as a luxury hospitality landmark.


Accor appoints Ranju Alex as CEO for South Asia

Accor appoints Ranju Alex as CEO for South Asia

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 1, 2025

Accor has announced the appointment of Ranju Alex as CEO for South Asia, a role covering India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The hospitality leader currently operates more than 70 hotels in the region, with over 30 in the pipeline.

Alex is a seasoned hospitality professional with a career spanning over three decades. Until recently, she served as Regional Vice President for South Asia at Marriott International, overseeing more than 170 hotels. She began her career with The Oberoi Group in 1993 and went on to hold several leadership positions at Marriott, contributing significantly to its growth in the region.

Recognised for her achievements, Alex was recently conferred with the Bharat Gaurav Award, a prestigious honour celebrating her contributions to the industry.

Expressing her excitement, Alex said:

“I am delighted to join an organisation with the most comprehensive and exciting portfolio of brands in the region. It will be an honor to lead the Group’s vision in this region, and I eagerly look forward to this exciting role.”

This appointment further strengthens Accor’s leadership team as it continues to expand its footprint and reinforce its position as a leading hospitality player in South Asia.


Pankaj Jaswal Appointed as Operations Manager at Hotel Express Inn, Nashik

Pankaj Jaswal Appointed as Operations Manager at Hotel Express Inn, Nashik

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 29, 2025

Hotel Express Inn, Nashik, has welcomed Pankaj Jaswal as its new Operations Manager. Bringing with him valuable experience and a deep passion for hospitality, Pankaj Jaswal is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the hotel’s operations and guest engagement.

Express Inn has always been known for its focus on delivering memorable guest experiences, and this appointment marks another step towards enhancing service quality and operational excellence. The team expressed their excitement in welcoming him, noting that his expertise will help the property continue its journey of growth and success.

The Express Inn Family looks forward to achieving new milestones under his leadership, ensuring that every guest enjoys the warmth and hospitality the brand is known for.

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