Mr Balaji Transforms Clarks Exotica into a Hospitality Icon

Mr Balaji Transforms Clarks Exotica into a Hospitality Icon

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 15, 2024

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa, Bangalore, celebrates the extraordinary leadership of its Group CEO, Mr. Balaji, who has reshaped the resort’s journey towards unmatched success. Under his transformative vision, the resort has achieved remarkable milestones, including doubling its turnover and tripling occupancy rates, firmly establishing itself as a top choice for leisure and corporate travelers alike.

A Journey of Leadership and Growth

Mr. Balaji’s career with Clarks Exotica began in 2011, where he took on a critical leadership role across multiple verticals, including Operations, Sales Marketing, Finance, Procurement, and HR. These responsibilities set the stage for the resort’s extraordinary growth.

By December 14, 2011, Mr. Balaji was promoted to Vice President, where his leadership broadened to include strategic oversight of various departments. His diverse expertise and commitment to operational excellence culminated in his appointment as Group CEO, where he now oversees the group’s continued growth across all aspects of hospitality.

Leadership Philosophy

Mr. Balaji believes in fostering an environment of succession planning and eliminating hierarchical barriers. He emphasizes the importance of attitude over technical skills and encourages his team to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

In his own words:
"Every challenge is an opportunity to evolve, to grow, and to innovate. It is this relentless pursuit of excellence, day in and day out, that fuels me and my team to continuously raise the bar."

This philosophy has inspired the team to deliver unparalleled guest experiences while continuously innovating to stay ahead in the competitive hospitality industry.

A Vision of Excellence

Mr. Balaji’s innovative strategies have revolutionized the resort’s offerings, ensuring a seamless blend of traditional Indian hospitality with cutting-edge amenities. From optimizing operational frameworks to introducing enhanced guest experiences, his leadership embodies the ethos of "Atithi Devo Bhava" (The guest is God).

Driving Success Through Innovation

Through his visionary approach, Mr. Balaji has positioned Clarks Exotica as a leader in hospitality. His ability to inspire, innovate, and push boundaries reflects in the resort’s consistent growth and stellar reputation.

As Clarks Exotica celebrates this milestone, the team looks forward to scaling greater heights under Mr. Balaji’s leadership, continuing its legacy of excellence and innovation.


Shreya Sharma Joins Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield as Multi Property Director of Marketing

Shreya Sharma Joins Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield as Multi Property Director of Marketing

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 23, 2025

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center has announced the appointment of Shreya Sharma as Multi Property Director of Marketing, extending her leadership to Marriott Executive Apartments UB City and The Artiste Kochi, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

A seasoned marketing communications professional, Shreya brings with her over a decade of cross-industry experience spanning hospitality, real estate, and consumer tech. Known for crafting impactful, data-led brand strategies, she has previously contributed to some of the most prestigious names in the business, including Hilton Hotels, Westin Hotels and Resorts, and Edelman.

In her most recent role as Cluster Director of Marketing, Shreya led communication strategies for Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park and Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, delivering measurable results and enhancing brand visibility in a competitive market.

Shreya is celebrated for her ability to translate insights into high-impact, digital-first campaigns while leveraging PR and storytelling to connect with diverse audience segments. Her work has been recognized by the industry, notably earning her a spot in the Pitch Marketing and PR Moment 30 Under 30 Awards, underscoring her as a rising leader in Indian marketing.

A postgraduate in Advertising and Public Relations from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi, Shreya’s strategic acumen and creative direction are expected to steer the marketing efforts of all three properties with innovation and intent.

With this new appointment, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield and its sister properties are set to benefit from her results-driven approach and her passion for storytelling that resonates across platforms and markets.


redBus Appoints Saurabh Agarwal as Chief Financial Officer

redBus Appoints Saurabh Agarwal as Chief Financial Officer

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 23, 2025

redBus has announced the appointment of Saurabh Agarwal as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In this strategic role, he will lead the company’s overall finance operations, including financial planning and analysis (FPnA), compliance, legal, taxation, and risk management.

With over two decades of cross-sector experience, Agarwal brings strong financial leadership, business planning, and growth strategy expertise to the table. He started his career with Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance, where he held several senior roles over an 11-year tenure, working across corporate planning, finance operations, and distribution strategy.

In 2014, he joined the founding team at Medlife.com, where he played a key role in scaling the healthtech platform into one of the country’s top digital healthcare brands. More recently, he served as Group CFO at Livspace, where he steered the company’s financial function through rapid scaling and global expansion.

Prakash Sangam, CEO of redBus, shared his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to welcome Saurabh to redBus. His track record in enabling high-growth businesses through strong financial acumen and building high-performing teams aligns well with our growth ambitions. As we scale across markets and product lines, his leadership will be key to shaping sound, future-focused financial strategies that power our next phase of growth.”

Agarwal also shared his excitement about the new role, stating,

“I am thrilled to be part of redBus, which is playing a critical role in transforming a complex and fragmented sector. With its scale, category leadership, and focus on tech-led innovation, there is a strong foundation to continue building on. I look forward to working closely with the leadership team to strengthen financial resilience and support the company’s global growth ambitions.”

A chartered accountant (ICAI) by qualification, Agarwal also holds a CIMA certification in Strategic Management from London. He is an INSEAD alumnus and earned his bachelor's degree in commerce from Sydenham College, Mumbai.


Gagan Sahu Returns to The Ritz-Carlton, Pune as Executive Sous Chef

Gagan Sahu Returns to The Ritz-Carlton, Pune as Executive Sous Chef

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 23, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune has appointed Gagan Sahu as its new Executive Sous Chef, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for culinary innovation to the hotel’s kitchens. With over 14 years of experience across India’s top luxury hotels, Sahu is known for his modern take on Indian cuisine, deep ingredient knowledge, and dedication to sustainability.

This marks a return to The Ritz-Carlton, Pune for Chef Sahu, who earlier served as Chef de Cuisine during the hotel’s pre-opening phase. During that tenure, he was instrumental in setting the tone for the hotel’s dining excellence, with the All Day Dining restaurant winning ‘Best in the City’ by the Times Food and Nightlife Awards for three consecutive years.

Sahu has also led prestigious culinary events, including the Louis XIII Cognac Dinner, the Degree Celsius Dinner, and the Lexus Chef’s Table—showcases that won acclaim for their refined presentation and inventive flavours.

Prior to his return, Chef Sahu held senior roles at Hyatt Regency Pune & Residences and The St. Regis Goa, where he played a key role in launching Susegado, a beachside concept celebrating modern coastal Indian fare.

At The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, Sahu will oversee culinary operations across Ukiyo, Aasmana, the Tea Lounge, All Day Dining, and Banquets, contributing to menu innovation, team mentoring, and elevating the overall gastronomic experience.

An advocate for zero-waste cooking, Chef Sahu is passionate about working with locally sourced, indigenous ingredients, transforming them into globally inspired dishes. His work often showcases vegan-forward menus, pre-plated fine dining formats, and regional storytelling through food.

A proud Pune resident, Sahu brings not just his expertise, but also a heartfelt connection to the region. His return is set to further strengthen The Ritz-Carlton, Pune’s reputation for culinary excellence, delivering unforgettable dining journeys with purpose and precision.

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