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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on June 12, 2024
Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator, has appointed Gonzalo Aguilar as the Chief Executive Officer for Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, effective January 1, 2025. Aguilar will succeed Ramón Aragonés, who has served as CEO since 2009 and will transition to Non-Executive Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, continuing his involvement with the company.
Gonzalo Aguilar joins Minor Hotels from Marriott International, where he was the Chief Operating Officer for Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Aguilar has a proven track record of driving growth and achieving record earnings. His career at Marriott included significant milestones, such as the successful integration of AC Hotels post-acquisition and various executive roles across the Americas and Europe.
Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and President of Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, praised Aragonés for his extensive contributions to the group’s transformation into a leading hospitality powerhouse. He also welcomed Aguilar’s appointment, emphasizing Aguilar's deep industry expertise and leadership skills, which are crucial for advancing Minor Hotels' strategic vision.
Aguilar’s tenure at Minor Hotels is expected to reinforce the company's position as a frontrunner in the global hospitality industry. He will officially start his role on January 1, 2025, following a three-month handover period beginning October 1, 2024, to ensure a smooth transition and alignment with the company's objectives.
Reflecting on the leadership change, Rajakarier expressed gratitude for Aragonés’ inspirational leadership and dedication over the years. He noted that Aragonés' legacy has set a solid foundation for Aguilar to build upon as Minor Hotels continues to expand its global footprint.
About Minor Hotels
Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating over 550 hotels, resorts, and residences in 56 countries. The group's diverse portfolio includes renowned brands such as Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks, and Tivoli. Minor Hotels is committed to delivering exceptional service and memorable experiences, leveraging quality, sustainability, and innovation in its operations.
As a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), Minor Hotels participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty program, offering guests unique benefits across the alliance’s extensive network of independent hotel brands. The group aims to continue its rapid growth, with plans to add more than 200 hotels by the end of 2026.
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By Hariharan U
Published on September 15, 2025
Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Whitefield has announced the appointment of Ishita Ganguly as its new hotel manager. A seasoned hospitality leader, Ganguly brings over 13 years of experience across top global hotel chains including Marriott International, IHG, Accor and Hyatt.
An alumna of the Institute of Hotel Management, Bangalore, she began her career as a corporate management trainee at Park Hyatt Chennai. Over the years, she has held senior roles at Hyatt Regency Mumbai, Accor’s Global Sales Office West India, Ibis Mumbai Cluster and Crowne Plaza Greater Noida.
Most recently, Ganguly was the complex director of sales and marketing at Courtyard & Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, where she earned recognition as Sales Rising Star Leader at Marriott International’s Elite Awards 2024.
Known for her expertise in sales and revenue management, Ganguly has consistently delivered strong commercial results across diverse market landscapes. She is admired for her strategic mindset, energetic leadership and focus on guest experience and operational excellence.
Beyond her professional achievements, she enjoys travelling and discovering new destinations, adding a personal touch to her passion for hospitality.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has announced the appointment of Rohan Malwankar as its new executive chef. With over 14 years of distinguished experience across marquee Marriott International properties, Malwankar is known for his ingredient-led philosophy, modern sensibilities, and ability to craft dining experiences that blend authenticity with innovation.
Since joining Marriott International in 2007, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the culinary identity of several renowned hotels, including The St. Regis Mumbai, JW Marriott Mumbai, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, and Courtyard by Marriott Hebbal, Bengaluru. Most recently, he served as executive chef at Navi Mumbai Marriott Hotel, where he led pre- and post-opening culinary strategies, designed forward-thinking menus, and elevated guest experiences through regional storytelling.
Malwankar’s career has been marked by dynamic leadership, curating large-format galas such as celebrity weddings, and contributing to high-profile pre-opening task forces across India and Sri Lanka. His contributions to guest satisfaction, business growth, and community engagement have earned him 10 distinguished career awards.
Commenting on his appointment, Malwankar said, “It is an honour to join JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru in this exciting new chapter of my culinary journey. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to champion bold flavours, introduce fresh perspectives, and create immersive dining experiences that reflect the soul of this iconic hotel.”
Welcoming him, Gaurav Sinha, General Manager, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, added, “We are delighted to welcome chef Rohan Malwankar to our leadership team. His wealth of experience, progressive culinary outlook, and ability to transform ingredients into stories make him a valuable asset. We are confident that his expertise will not only enrich our dining offerings but also strengthen the hotel’s positioning as one of Bengaluru’s most sought-after culinary destinations.”
In his new role, Malwankar will oversee all culinary operations at the property, including its award-winning restaurants such as Bengaluru Baking Company, Alba, Spice Terrace, JW Kitchen, Merak Brewhouse, and UNO Izakaya, as well as in-room dining and banqueting. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and consistent excellence, he aims to further elevate JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru’s dining reputation while upholding the brand’s legacy of luxury and quality.
Published on September 12, 2025
Surat Marriott Hotel has announced the appointment of Bishwajeet Kumar as its new executive chef. Kumar brings with him over 23 years of experience in culinary leadership, spanning hotel kitchens, air catering services, cruise liners, and large-scale catering operations. He has worked with reputed hospitality brands such as Marriott International, IHCL, Hyatt, InterContinental Hotels Group, and The Orchid. His most recent role was with IHCL’s TajSats Air Catering in Goa.
With expertise in leading kitchen operations, developing menus, and delivering memorable dining experiences, Kumar is known for his operational precision and creative culinary approach.
In his new role at Surat Marriott Hotel, Kumar will oversee all culinary operations, including the hotel’s signature restaurants, banquets, and in-room dining. His focus will be on diligent operations, consistent food quality, and enhancing the guest experience.
Expressing his excitement about the appointment, Amit Mehta, Vice President of Operations, said:
“Chef Bishwajeet’s strong operational skills and genuine passion for food will be instrumental in elevating the dining experiences at Surat Marriott Hotel.”
With his extensive background and proven leadership, Kumar is set to strengthen Surat Marriott Hotel’s reputation for offering world-class dining experiences.
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