Pankaj Kumar Joins The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa as Associate Director F&B Service

Pankaj Kumar Joins The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa as Associate Director F&B Service

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 7, 2024

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, proudly welcomes Pankaj Kumar as their new Associate Director F&B Service. With over 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Pankaj brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to his role in enhancing guest experiences at India’s FIRST luxury ski-resort in the Himalayas.

Having worked with esteemed brands like Marriott, Taj Group of Hotels, and Jehan Numa Retreat, Pankaj's expertise spans various facets of F&B operations, training, and revenue management. His diverse background positions him perfectly to collaborate with the F&B leadership at The Khyber, Gulmarg, focusing on maximizing revenue, providing top-notch training, and elevating the overall dining experience for guests.

Situated amidst the breathtaking Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas at an elevation of 8,825 ft., The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa offers a truly unique setting spread over seven acres in a pristine pine valley. Boasting 85 luxurious rooms with stunning views of the snow-capped Affarwat peaks, the resort also features The Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE, providing guests with luxurious spa treatments inspired by the rituals of Provence, France.

Committed to delivering impeccable service and warm hospitality, The Khyber has earned numerous accolades since its launch in December 2012. Its strategic location, just a 10-minute walk from the world’s highest Golf Course and in close proximity to Gulmarg’s famed Gondola, makes it a premier destination for ski enthusiasts.

Pankaj Kumar's appointment marks yet another milestone for The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa as it continues to set benchmarks in luxury hospitality in the heart of the Himalayas.


Fairmont Udaipur Palace Appoints Harsh Champawat as Hotel Manager

Fairmont Udaipur Palace Appoints Harsh Champawat as Hotel Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on September 6, 2025

Fairmont Udaipur Palace has appointed Harsh Champawat as hotel manager, adding a seasoned leader to its pre-opening team. With more than a decade of experience across India and international markets, Champawat combines operational expertise, strategic foresight, and a passion for delivering elevated luxury hospitality.

 He has been instrumental in shaping the resort’s service ethos, driving operational performance, and curating guest experiences that blend grandeur with warmth. Before joining Fairmont Udaipur, Champawat served as hotel manager at The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York, where he led operations while maintaining the property’s storied reputation and delivering Taj’s signature hospitality on a global stage.

His career began with Taj Hotels as a management trainee, progressing through iconic properties including Umaid Bhawan Palace, Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, and Taj Palace New Delhi, where he advanced to director of operations. International stints at Taj 51 Buckingham Gate and St. James’ Court, London, enriched his understanding of luxury clientele and global market dynamics. Champawat’s leadership is rooted in empowerment, precision, and purpose, setting the tone for a guest journey that is both refined and memorable at Fairmont Udaipur Palace.


Marriott International Appoints Kiran Andicot as SVP, South Asia

Marriott International Appoints Kiran Andicot as SVP, South Asia

By Hariharan U

Published on September 6, 2025

Marriott International has appointed Kiran Andicot as senior vice president to lead its South Asia portfolio, overseeing operations, development, and strategic growth across India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

In this expanded role, Andicot will align growth with operating performance, strengthen owner partnerships, accelerate hotel conversions and openings, and reinforce regional leadership. With nearly 30 years of experience spanning hotel operations, consultancy, planning, feasibility studies, and development, Andicot joined Marriott’s development and feasibility team in 2006 and has risen steadily over a 19-year tenure.

He has been instrumental in driving growth momentum, signing over 220 hotels in South Asia, including a record 42 hotels and 7,000 rooms in India in 2024, and recently securing a landmark deal with Concept Hospitality to affiliate The Fern portfolio of 115 properties with Series by Marriott. These initiatives extend Marriott’s reach beyond gateway cities into Tier 2 and 3 locations such as Surat, Shimla, Jalandhar, and Coorg, while also diversifying the portfolio into the residences segment. Andicot’s vast expertise and deep market knowledge continue to strengthen Marriott’s position as the largest hospitality chain in India, reinforcing its trajectory of sustained growth in the region.


Four Points By Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi Strengthens Leadership with Four Key Appointments

Four Points By Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi Strengthens Leadership with Four Key Appointments

By Hariharan U

Published on September 5, 2025

Four Points By Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi has announced a significant leadership expansion with the appointment of four accomplished women professionals to key roles across sales, revenue, front office, and marketing.

Stepping in as Director of Sales, Pradnya Pangerkar brings over 17 years of experience and a strong track record in driving revenue growth and forging impactful partnerships. Joining her is Kashish Jaiswal, who takes on the role of Assistant Revenue & Reservations Manager. With her analytical expertise and market foresight, she is expected to play a vital role in optimising hotel performance and profitability.

On the operations front, Rakhi Pandey has been appointed as Front Office Manager. Renowned for her expertise in guest relations and operational efficiency, she is committed to delivering memorable experiences and seamless service. Meanwhile, Sheetal Baste assumes the position of Marketing Manager, leveraging her rich experience in event management and F&B marketing. With a background in curating large-scale experiential events and working with leading hospitality brands, she will focus on enhancing brand visibility and guest engagement.

Commenting on the appointments, Kiran Muniraj, Hotel Manager, Four Points By Sheraton Navi Mumbai, Vashi, said, “These appointments mark a significant milestone in our journey toward inclusive leadership and operational excellence. We are thrilled to welcome Pradnya, Kashish, Rakhi, and Sheetal to our leadership team. Their expertise and vision will be instrumental in shaping the next chapter of our growth story. More importantly, their presence reflects our belief in empowering women to lead with confidence and impact”.

He further added, “They represent a new wave of leadership, one that is collaborative, intuitive, and deeply aligned with our values. Gender diversity isn’t a checkbox; it’s a catalyst for innovation, empathy, and sustainable success. I’m proud to stand alongside these remarkable women as we shape a more inclusive and dynamic future for our hotel”.

The arrival of these four dynamic leaders underscores the hotel’s vision of gender-balanced leadership in hospitality, a sector where representation plays a vital role. With their combined expertise, collaborative spirit, and commitment to excellence, the new leadership team is set to inspire associates, elevate guest experiences, and drive long-term success.

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