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.


The Serai Resorts, Bandipur Appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur Appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2026

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur has announced the appointment of Siddharth Manjeshwar as its new Resort Manager, further strengthening the leadership team at the award-winning luxury wildlife retreat located on the edge of Bandipur National Park.

Siddharth brings extensive international hospitality experience, having worked across luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants in India, Thailand, Japan, the UAE, and the Maldives. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with leading hospitality brands including IHCL, Alila Hotels & Resorts, Sterling Holidays, Club Med, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa.

His expertise spans resort operations, food and beverage management, guest experience, and team leadership. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for driving operational excellence, improving guest satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams.

Siddharth holds a Master's degree in Business with a specialisation in Hospitality Management, combining strong business knowledge with hands-on operational experience in the hospitality sector.

Welcoming him to the team, Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said:

"With Siddharth joining the leadership team, he will play an important role in the next chapter for The Serai Bandipur. His proven track record in luxury hospitality, passion for service excellence, and deep understanding of resort operations align perfectly with our vision of crafting meaningful, destination-led experiences for the unhurried explorer. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to his leadership in further elevating the thoughtful experiences, and authentic connections that define The Serai Resorts."

As Resort Manager, Siddharth will oversee the overall operations of The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, with a focus on delivering seamless guest experiences, strengthening service standards, improving operational efficiency, and developing the resort's team. He will also work closely with the leadership team to further position the property as one of India's leading luxury wildlife destinations.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Siddharth Manjeshwar said:

"I am delighted to join The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, a destination that beautifully blends nature, thoughtful experiences, and gracious hospitality. Having worked across diverse hospitality markets and brands, I look forward to collaborating with the team to create meaningful guest journeys, strengthen our culture of service excellence, and deliver the immersive, destination-led experiences that make every stay at The Serai Resorts truly memorable.”

With Siddharth's appointment, The Serai Resorts, Bandipur continues its focus on delivering authentic, immersive, and guest-centric experiences while strengthening its position in India's luxury wildlife hospitality segment.


Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad Appoints Praveen Sharma as Hotel Manager

Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad Appoints Praveen Sharma as Hotel Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad has announced the appointment of Praveen Sharma as its new Hotel Manager, further strengthening the hotel's leadership team.

With over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Praveen brings extensive expertise across hotel operations, sales, business development, strategic planning, and commercial growth. Throughout his career, he has built a strong track record of driving operational excellence, improving business performance, and developing high-performing teams.

Praveen holds a Ph.D. in Tourism from Himachal Pradesh University and a Certification in General Management from IIM Lucknow. Before joining Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad, he spent several years with Marriott International, where he held various leadership and pre-opening roles across multiple properties.

In his new role, Praveen will oversee the hotel's strategic and operational functions, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, strengthening the hotel's market presence, building a people-first culture, and driving sustainable business growth.

Welcoming him to the hotel, Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, Development & Operations - South Asia, Marriott International, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Praveen to Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad. His extensive industry experience, proven leadership capabilities, and strong track record of building successful teams make him exceptionally well positioned to lead the hotel. We are confident that his vision, passion for hospitality, and commitment to excellence will play a pivotal role in strengthening the hotel’s presence in the market and creating memorable experiences for guests and associates alike.”

Recognised for his collaborative leadership style, Praveen has consistently focused on building strong relationships with guests, owners, associates, and business partners while delivering long-term business success.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Praveen Sharma said:

“I am honored to be part of the team at Courtyard by Marriott Ghaziabad. This hotel represents an exciting opportunity to create exceptional guest experiences while building a strong culture rooted in Marriott’s values. I look forward to working alongside our talented associates, ownership team, and stakeholders to establish the hotel as a preferred destination for business travelers, social celebrations, and memorable hospitality experiences in the region.”

Outside his professional responsibilities, Praveen enjoys travelling, reading, and spending time with his family.


Rajnish Sharma Joins ITC Hotels as Food & Beverage Manager for Welcomhotel Mohali Chandigarh Pre-Opening

Rajnish Sharma Joins ITC Hotels as Food & Beverage Manager for Welcomhotel Mohali Chandigarh Pre-Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on August 7, 2026

Rajnish Sharma Joins ITC Hotels as Food and beverage Manger for WelcomHotel Mohali Chandigarh Pre Opening

Mohali Chandigarh: Hospitality professional Rajnish Sharma has announced his new role as Food & Beverage Manager for the pre-opening of Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Mohali Chandigarh.

This appointment marks Rajnish Sharma’s second role as a Food & Beverage Manager, reflecting his continued growth, dedication, and passion for the hospitality industry.

Sharing his excitement about the new journey, Rajnish expressed that being associated with ITC Hotels is a privilege, given the brand’s legacy of excellence, commitment to quality, and focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

As part of the pre-opening team, Rajnish will contribute towards establishing food and beverage operations, creating memorable dining experiences, and supporting the hotel’s vision of delivering service excellence.

Looking ahead, he aims to collaborate with the team, embrace new opportunities, and contribute towards setting new benchmarks in hospitality.

Rajnish also expressed his gratitude to everyone who has supported and believed in him throughout his professional journey, acknowledging their role in helping him achieve this milestone.

The hospitality industry congratulates Rajnish Sharma on this new chapter and wishes him success in his upcoming role with Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Mohali Chandigarh.

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