Mastering the Art of Leadership Through Cuisine: Jerson Fernandes

Mastering the Art of Leadership Through Cuisine: Jerson Fernandes

By Hariharan U

Published on October 15, 2025

Few journeys in the culinary world are as inspiring as that of Jerson Montereyjack Fernandes. Today, as Director of Culinary Operations at Sodexo India and a Guinness World Record holder, Chef Jerson exemplifies how passion and perseverance can turn humble beginnings into extraordinary achievements. His mantra "Never forget your roots", underscores a career built not just on technical mastery, but on heart, purpose, and authenticity.

Chef Jerson holds the unique distinction of being the only Indian chef to cook twice for the White House Delegates, USA. A testament to his international caliber. His accolades speak volumes: India’s Best Chef 2021-22 and 2022-23, Star Chef Award of India 2019, and felicitations from the Chief Minister of Goa and the Mayor of Mumbai. He also became India’s first Executive Hotel Chef to deliver a TEDx talk, sharing culinary wisdom with a broader audience. He was also recognized as the most Creative chef of India in 2016 and 2017.

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From corporate boardrooms to Bollywood sets, Chef Jerson’s clientele reads like a roll call of Indian excellence. He has crafted meals for the whose who of the corporate, sporting and glamor industry. To name a few, business titans such as Azeem Premji (Wipro), Rohit Java (Hindustan Unilever), Sindhu G (SAP), Naveen Jindal (Jindal Steel) etc, while delighting Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Ajay Devgan, Vicky Kaushal etc, Tollywood heroes Prabhas, Ravi Teja, Sathyaraaj etc and sports legends Steve Waugh, Kapil Dev, Mary Kom, Leander Paes etc.

Beyond the glamour, Chef Jerson has pioneered meaningful initiatives. He became India’s first Executive Chef to train and collaborate with special needs children, a CSR effort close to his heart. He has also imparted culinary training to the armed forces at INS Hamla, earning their special recognition.

With 150,000 plus organic Instagram followers, 4 million average monthly views, and 61,000+ LinkedIn connections making him the second-most-followed Indian chef globally, Jerson has mastered the art of digital storytelling. His appearances on the sets of MasterChef India in 2024 and 2025 further cemented his status as a household name.

Chef Jerson Fernandes proves that with dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, even a dishwasher can cook for the world’s best and inspire millions along the way. His journey shows that humble beginnings are no barrier to extraordinary achievements. From cooking for the celebrities to mentoring future chefs, his story blends talent with heart. Beyond awards and recognition, his work inspires, uplifts, and makes a meaningful impact. He proves that with passion, perseverance, and purpose, even the loftiest dreams are within reach.

Chef Jerson currently heads the culinary operations in the Corporate Food segment for Sodexo India, the French multinational renowned for its global food and facilities services. He reports to Mr. Rakesh Agarwal (COO – Corporate Food, India), whom he fondly regards as his guiding light and mentor in the corporate world.


Chef Ashish Tiwari Leads ROOH San Francisco to Michelin Guide Recognition

Chef Ashish Tiwari Leads ROOH San Francisco to Michelin Guide Recognition

By Hariharan U

Published on November 25, 2025

ROOH San Francisco, the well-known progressive Indian restaurant in the Bay Area, is celebrating the work of its Executive Chef, Ashish Tiwari, whose culinary leadership has played a major role in the restaurant being featured in the Michelin Guide.

Chef Ashish leads the kitchen with a strong focus on technique, regional authenticity, and fresh, creative flavour ideas. His direction has helped ROOH San Francisco maintain its spot as one of the region’s most refined and modern Indian dining spaces.

The Michelin Guide recognition reflects his strength in building flavours, curating ingredients, and presenting dishes in a contemporary, global style, while still staying true to the soul of Indian cooking. Through his approach, diners get to experience Indian cuisine in a polished and elevated manner.

"Chef Ashish currently helms ROOH San Francisco, a restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide for its excellence," the restaurant announced. "This recognition reflects his ability to maintain world-class standards in flavor architecture, technique, ingredient curation, and guest experience. His leadership and innovations have been instrumental in positioning modern Indian cuisine among the Bay Area's most respected fine-dining offerings."

Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Chef Ashish Tiwari said, "Being Michelin Guide–recommended is more than an award, it demonstrates that the culinary direction I provide at ROOH San Francisco meets the highest international benchmarks. Through this platform, I am actively shaping the global perception of Indian cuisine by presenting refined techniques, regional authenticity, and modern Californian ingredient integrations."

His work at ROOH focuses on balancing innovation with the emotional depth and cultural richness of Indian food. Each menu is designed to showcase India’s regional diversity in a fresh, season-driven format that fits naturally into the Californian dining landscape.

With Chef Ashish continuing to lead the kitchen, ROOH San Francisco remains committed to shaping the next chapter of contemporary Indian cuisine and maintaining its strong position in one of America’s most competitive food scenes.


Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Mallika Chugh as Assistant Director of Marcom

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Mallika Chugh as Assistant Director of Marcom

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 24, 2025

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Mallika Chugh as its assistant director of marketing & communications, adding depth to its leadership team as the resort continues to grow its presence among Rajasthan’s most charming luxury destinations. Known for her creative outlook and precise understanding of hospitality branding, Chugh brings strong experience across marketing strategy, communications and brand development.

Over the years, she has worked with leading luxury hotel brands, building a solid record in boosting visibility, launching impactful campaigns and crafting meaningful brand stories that connect with travellers. Her strength lies in blending storytelling with commercial strategy, ensuring every initiative carries both emotion and purpose.

Before joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, Chugh worked with well-known hospitality brands where she handled marketing, PR and digital responsibilities across multiple properties. In her most recent role, she managed cluster marketing communications, successfully repositioning properties, creating destination-led campaigns and strengthening engagement across domestic and global markets.

In her new position at the resort, Chugh will lead all aspects of marketing and communications, including brand strategy, content creation, media relations, digital storytelling and partnerships. Her focus will be on shaping a strong brand identity that highlights the resort’s stunning architecture, desert setting and cultural charm, while positioning it as a must-visit luxury destination for travellers from India and around the world.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mallika Chugh to the Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa family. Her deep understanding of marketing, communications, and brand development, combined with her creative vision and strategic acumen, makes her a valuable addition to our leadership team. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and compelling narratives she will bring as we continue to elevate our brand and guest experience,” said Nikhil Kher, general manager at the hotel.

Speaking about her appointment, Chugh said, “Joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is both a privilege and an exciting challenge. The property is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Rajasthan, its heritage, artistry, and warmth. My vision is to build a brand narrative that reflects this richness while positioning the resort as a global icon of luxury rooted in authenticity. I look forward to collaborating with a team that shares this passion for storytelling and excellence.”


Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints New Executive Chef and Director of Finance

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints New Executive Chef and Director of Finance

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 22, 2025

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has announced two key leadership appointments with the addition of Arun Vats as Executive Chef and Nileshwary Sharma as Director of Finance & Business Support. The hotel aims to further strengthen its culinary and financial operations with the diverse experience and expertise that both leaders bring.

Chef Arun Vats joins the hotel with more than 22 years of culinary experience across India, the Middle East, and international destinations. A graduate of the Institute of Hotel Management, Gurdaspur, he began his career with ITC Hotels at ITC Sonar Bangla, Kolkata, and has since worked with leading brands including The Oberoi Hotels, Taj Group of Hotels and Hard Rock International. His global exposure includes roles on Carnival Cruise Lines and Holland America Cruise Lines, along with significant positions in Oman and Seychelles. Before joining Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, he served as Director of Culinary for Accor Group at Novotel Dona Sylvia Resort Goa and Mercure Devaaya Resort, Goa. Chef Arun specialises in multiple global cuisines and brings a strong focus on innovation and evolving culinary trends.

Nileshwary Sharma takes on the role of Director of Finance & Business Support with over 13 years of financial leadership experience in the hospitality and corporate sectors. A Chartered Accountant and Bachelor of Commerce graduate, she has worked with respected organisations such as R.K. Jha and Associates, Sarupria Somani & Associates, Flicker Projects – Foods & Hospitality, and Alka Group of Hotels. Prior to this appointment, she served as Director of Finance at Ananta Hotels & Resorts, contributing to strategic planning and operational efficiency.

Sharad K Upadhyay, General Manager at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Arun and Nileshwary to the Crowne Plaza Greater Noida family. Their remarkable expertise, global exposure, and leadership qualities will further elevate our guest experiences and operational standards. We are confident that under their guidance, our culinary and financial operations will reach new heights of excellence.”

With these appointments, the hotel continues to reinforce its position as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers, supported by strong leadership and a commitment to service excellence.

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