Minor Hotels Welcomes Gonzalo Aguilar as New CEO for Europe & Americas

Minor Hotels Welcomes Gonzalo Aguilar as New CEO for Europe & Americas

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.


Israel Ministry of Tourism Appoints Galit Hoffman as Consul-Tourism Affairs for India

Israel Ministry of Tourism Appoints Galit Hoffman as Consul-Tourism Affairs for India

By Hariharan U

Published on August 26, 2025

The Israel Ministry of Tourism has announced the appointment of Ms. Galit Hoffman as the new Consul-Tourism Affairs for India. In her new role, she will lead the country’s tourism promotion strategy in India, focusing on strengthening Israel’s position as a diverse and enriching travel destination.

Ms. Hoffman will work closely with travel trade professionals, airlines, media partners, and digital platforms to enhance awareness and expand opportunities for tourism between India and Israel. Her efforts will be centered on showcasing Israel’s vibrant culture, history, landscapes, and experiences to Indian travelers.

The appointment comes at a time when Israel is keen on further strengthening its tourism ties with India, which has emerged as a significant source market in recent years. With her leadership, the Ministry aims to build stronger collaborations with the Indian travel and hospitality ecosystem, creating more avenues for growth and exchange.

The Ministry has also expressed openness to engaging with media and industry stakeholders for interviews and discussions in the coming weeks, offering insights into Israel’s tourism vision for the Indian market.

With Ms. Galit Hoffman at the helm of tourism affairs in India, Israel Ministry of Tourism is looking forward to reinforcing its presence and inspiring more Indian travelers to explore the country’s unique offerings.


Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa Appoints Deepali Mathur as Director of Rooms

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa Appoints Deepali Mathur as Director of Rooms

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 25, 2025

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Deepali Mathur as its new director of rooms.

Mathur brings a philosophy that perfectly aligns with the resort’s identity, where anticipation, precision, and personalisation shape every guest journey. She believes that each stay is a story, carefully crafted from arrival to farewell, leaving guests with connections that last beyond their visit.

Her vision for the rooms division is to blend operational excellence with heartfelt hospitality. Mathur plans to integrate Hyatt’s globally renowned service culture with the natural warmth of Uttarakhand, while also nurturing local talent to deliver service that is structured yet deeply personal.

Guests can look forward to rooms designed as private sanctuaries, where intuitive layouts, smart technology, and local artistry come together to create a balance of comfort and individuality.

A proven leader, Mathur has successfully guided complex hospitality transitions, including the smooth implementation of new property management systems without disrupting guest experience. Known for her calm and collaborative approach, she ensures departments work in harmony to deliver seamless and memorable stays.

Her appointment comes at an opportune time as Hyatt Regency Dehradun strengthens its position as a preferred destination for leisure and business travellers alike. Mathur’s focus on personalising stays, amplifying guest value, and introducing sustainable innovations is expected to further enhance the resort’s appeal for discerning guests.


Rosetta Hospitality Appoints Chef Sufeeyan Khan to Lead Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ in Goa

Rosetta Hospitality Appoints Chef Sufeeyan Khan to Lead Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ in Goa

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2025

Rosetta Hospitality has announced the appointment of Chef Sufeeyan Khan as Chef de Cuisine at Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ, the group’s signature world-cuisine beachfront dining destination at Varca Beach, Goa. Known for his creative flair and luxury hospitality experience, Chef Sufeeyan will spearhead the restaurant’s culinary journey as it reopens on September 1st after the annual monsoon closure.

Chef Sufeeyan’s career spans renowned properties like W Hotels and The Leela Goa, with his most recent role as Executive Chef at São by the Shore. His unique approach combines global culinary techniques with coastal flavours, delivering experiences that are refined, memorable, and deeply guest-centric.

At Ouzo Delmar, Chef Sufeeyan will work alongside Chef Somnath Porel, Executive Chef at Elements by Rosetta, to curate a contemporary menu highlighting coastal and barbecue-inspired creations with authentic Goan influences. From fresh local produce to flavourful grills, every dish will tell a story of tradition meeting innovation.

I am truly delighted to join the Rosetta Hospitality family”, said Chef Sufeeyan Khan. “This role allows me to blend my passion for world cuisine with Goa’s rich culinary heritage. Our menu is designed to honour timeless traditions while embracing local authenticity—every dish will be crafted with care to create an unforgettable beachfront dining experience”.

Welcoming the new appointment, Abhishek Dhar, General Manager, Elements by Rosetta, Varca, said, “With his expertise and vision, Chef Sufeeyan will play a pivotal role in establishing Ouzo Delmar as one of Goa’s most distinguished dining destinations.”

Adding to this, Chef Milan Gupta, Corporate Chef & EVP, Rosetta Hospitality, noted, “Chef Sufeeyan’s ability to balance global flavours with Goan authenticity resonates perfectly with Rosetta’s culinary vision. His leadership will set new benchmarks of excellence in Goa’s dining scene”.

With this appointment, Rosetta Hospitality reinforces its commitment to creating immersive dining experiences that celebrate sustainability, innovation, and regional authenticity. Guests at Ouzo Delmar can look forward to an elevated culinary era where beachfront dining meets world-class hospitality.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.