Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad has announced the appointment of Niraj Chotai as its new Director of Sales & Marketing. Bringing more than 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he joins the leadership team with a strong background in sales management, business development, revenue generation, market expansion, and pre-opening operations.

In his new role, Niraj will be responsible for driving revenue growth, strengthening the hotel’s market presence, increasing brand visibility, and supporting guest experiences that align with Hyatt’s values and purpose. Over the course of his career, he has played a key role in several pre-opening projects and strategic partnerships that have contributed to sustainable business growth.

Before joining Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad, Niraj was associated with Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru. His professional journey also includes working with leading hospitality brands such as Marriott International, Hyatt Hotels, Radisson Blu, and Taj Hotels, where he gained extensive experience across various aspects of hotel sales and marketing.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Niraj said, “I am excited to re-join the Hyatt family and be part of a team that is passionate about excellence and meaningful guest experiences.”

Known for his customer-focused approach, analytical thinking, and entrepreneurial outlook, Niraj believes in building strong relationships and leading with integrity and purpose. He is recognised for creating meaningful connections while driving business results.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, he enjoys spending time with family and friends and has a keen interest in travelling to new countries, where he explores different cultures and perspectives.

Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 has announced the appointment of Milan Rawal as its new Human Resources Manager. Bringing over nine years of experience in hospitality human resources, Milan joins the hotel with a strong background in people management and HR operations.

Over the course of her career, she has worked with several hospitality organisations including Foodlink F&B Holdings Ltd., Hyatt Regency Gurgaon, Hyatt Place Hampi and Goan Recreation Clubs Pvt. Ltd., gaining experience across various aspects of human resource management.

In her new role, Milan will be responsible for overseeing the hotel's overall HR function. Her responsibilities will include talent acquisition, payroll management, employee relations, workforce planning and budgeting, employee engagement initiatives, learning and development programmes, as well as ensuring compliance with HR policies and labour laws.

Milan holds a PGDM from MIT University and a Master of Commerce degree from S.S. Dempo College of Commerce & Economics.

Outside her professional commitments, she enjoys playing badminton, travelling and spending time with her family.

Commenting on the appointment, Rishabh Jain, General Manager of Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90, said, "We are delighted to welcome Milan to our leadership team. Her strong HR expertise and people-centric approach will play a key role in strengthening our workplace culture and supporting the hotel's continued growth."

Sharing her thoughts on joining the hotel, Milan Rawal said, "I am excited to join Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 and look forward to contributing towards building a positive and engaging work environment while supporting the team's growth and success."

Astera Ventures, an India-based advisory firm that supports high-growth emerging companies through strategic consulting and investments, has announced the appointment of Prashant Hoskoté as a Non-Executive Director on its Board.

With over 35 years of experience in customer experience and quality leadership, Hoskoté joins the board at a key stage in Astera Ventures' growth journey. His appointment is expected to further strengthen the company's leadership and governance as it continues to expand its role in the global hospitality sector.

Astera Ventures is a key shareholder in Sunday Proptech, a hospitality owning and operating platform focused on developing and scaling hotels under PRISM, the parent company of OYO, Townhouse, SUNDAY and other hospitality brands worldwide. Sunday Proptech currently owns and operates 38 hotels across the United States and is actively pursuing expansion opportunities across the US, India and Europe. The platform brings together hospitality operations, real estate partnerships and brand-led growth to deliver quality guest experiences at scale.

Speaking about his new role, Prashant Hoskoté said, "I look forward to enabling strong governance and providing the right steer as Astera Ventures grows its portfolio and its key investment Sunday Proptech builds its next phase of growth in global hospitality. Astera Ventures plays an important role in this journey, and I am excited to contribute at the board level."

Hoskoté currently serves as the CEO of PH Factor, a board advisory and organisational excellence consulting practice based in Delhi NCR. Prior to this, he was President – Global Engagements at Striking Ideas. Over the course of his career, he has held several leadership positions, including Senior Director – Quality, Service Excellence, and Innovation at Max India Group, along with key roles at Mashreq Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and the Taj Group of Hotels.

He started his professional journey with Qimpro Consultants, the Indian affiliate of Juran Institute Inc., USA.

Beyond his corporate leadership experience, Hoskoté has contributed significantly to the quality and excellence ecosystem. He has served on the National Board for Quality Promotion at the Quality Council of India, held the position of Vice-Chair of ASQ's Quality Management Division – Global (Asia and Australia), and chaired ASQ's Organizational Excellence Technical Committee. In 2014, he was recognised among the "50 Most Talented Quality Professionals" at the World Quality Congress. He is also a published author and an international speaker.