Radisson Academy Celebrates Five Years of Empowering Talent

Radisson Academy Celebrates Five Years of Empowering Talent

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 31, 2024

Radisson Academy, the learning and development hub of Radisson Hotel Group, is celebrating its fifth anniversary. Since its launch in 2019, Radisson Academy has significantly grown, offering over 2,500 training programs. This milestone highlights Radisson’s commitment to enhancing employee skills and driving business success.

Over the past five years, Radisson Hotel Group has invested heavily in its diverse team across more than 95 countries. The academy’s mission is to create a productive learning environment, equipping team members with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles and adapt to the ever-evolving market demands. Radisson Academy provides continuous learning opportunities and customized training programs through various platforms, including Radisson Academy Online, Live, On the Job, Virtual, and Certifications.

In 2023, Radisson Academy achieved an impressive milestone, delivering over 1.5 million hours of training through more than 2,500 online, live, and virtual sessions. These programs cover a wide range of skills, from service and business acumen to leadership and hospitality fundamentals. Over the past five years, training completions have increased twenty-sevenfold, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 for each session. This has resulted in over 571,000 training completions, with each participant completing an average of 14.7 courses, significantly enhancing their professional skills.

According to Iñigo Capell, Global Chief People and Resources Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, “At Radisson Hotel Group, people remain our most important asset. We live by our cultural ethos of ‘We grow talent; talent grows us.’ Our growing Radisson Academy offering is a vital way to engage and support existing team members professionally and personally, attract new, dynamic team members, and ensure our team members have the necessary tools to build clear, broad, and fast careers.”

In 2019, Radisson Academy established its foundation with three primary training formats: Online, Live, and On the Job. That same year, the academy partnered with Typsy, a leading learning platform in the hospitality sector, to launch the Hospitality Fundamentals—a collection of 1,500 short video tutorials by industry experts, complete with widely recognized certificates. For Radisson Academy Online, the group engaged with business leaders to introduce new specialized training programs covering leadership, people management, hotel operations, and functional skills in areas like M&E, sales, and revenue management.

The following year, as the world adapted to remote learning due to the pandemic, Radisson Academy introduced a fourth channel, Radisson Academy Virtual. This platform quickly became a vital tool for engaging team members through developmental sessions and discussions led by notable external and internal speakers. Since its inception, Radisson Academy Virtual has hosted over 200 sessions and continues to adapt based on employee feedback.

In 2023, Radisson Academy launched its fifth training channel, Radisson Academy Certifications, to further enhance team members’ functional and strategic skills, aiding in career progression. These micro-credentials have been co-developed with experts and are led by the Group’s Leadership and Executive teams. To date, more than 9,000 team members have earned certifications across eight programs. Additionally, in 2022, Radisson launched Accelerate, a career development initiative aimed at preparing selected emerging leaders for general management roles, ensuring a solid leadership succession plan.

Looking ahead, Radisson Academy is committed to expanding its training and development initiatives to meet evolving business needs, equipping team members with essential skills for professional growth, tailored development opportunities, and fostering a strong performance culture that supports career advancement throughout the organization.


Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Essentia Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its growing portfolio with a new property in Nagpur, marking its entry into one of Central India’s emerging hospitality markets.

Known for its thoughtfully curated hospitality experiences, Essentia aims to introduce a property that blends contemporary elegance with functional design. The upcoming hotel is envisioned to cater to both business and leisure travellers, offering a refined yet welcoming stay experience aligned with modern expectations.

Often regarded as the heart of India, Nagpur is steadily evolving into a dynamic urban centre where cultural heritage meets modern development. With its serene lakes, spiritual landmarks, and historical attractions, the city presents a balanced mix of vibrancy and calmmaking it an attractive destination for both corporate and leisure travel.

Bringing its signature philosophy of “distinctive destination experience” to the city, Essentia’s new property will focus on combining contemporary sensibilities with intuitive service. The development aims to create a space that reflects comfort, sophistication, and attention to detail, while remaining rooted in a deep understanding of evolving guest preferences.

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Commenting on the expansion, Mohammed Parvez said, “Nagpur represents a compelling growth story, and we are delighted to be part of its evolving narrative. Our vision has always been to create destinations that resonate with their surroundings while offering a sense of familiarity and comfort that today’s travellers seek.”

With this move, Essentia continues to align its growth strategy with emerging Indian cities that are redefining the country’s hospitality landscape. The Nagpur property is expected to reflect the brand’s commitment to “Affordable Luxury,” delivering thoughtfully designed spaces, sincere service, and meaningful guest experiences.

Founded in 2018 under the aegis of Aaverina Hospitality Private Limited and headquartered in Bengaluru, Essentia Hotels & Resorts has been steadily building a reputation for delivering contemporary hospitality experiences rooted in design, service, and human connection.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has successfully renewed its Green Key Certification for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable hospitality. The hotel also holds the distinction of being the first in South India and the third in the country to receive this globally recognised eco-label.

Unlike one-time accolades, the Green Key renewal demands consistent year-on-year progress across key sustainability metrics. From energy efficiency and water conservation to waste management and community engagement, the certification reflects measurable impact and continuous improvement.

At the core of the hotel’s approach is a structured sustainability framework that integrates eco-conscious practices into daily operations, infrastructure, and guest experiences. Over time, the property has implemented several impactful initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint.

Energy efficiency measures include the use of 100% non-CFC coolants for air conditioning and the installation of over 6,000 LED bulbs across the property. Solar energy plays a significant role, with 200 solar panels powering water heating systems to meet the building’s requirements.

Water conservation remains a major focus area. With 1,500 aerators installed, the hotel saves up to 10,000 litres of water daily. Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to groundwater recharge, while treated water from the in-house sewage treatment plant is reused for landscaping, accounting for nearly 140 kilolitres per day.

The hotel has also embraced circular, low-waste practices. Its in-house water bottling plant using glass bottles helps eliminate nearly 30,000 plastic bottles each month. Organic waste is converted into manure for a 2,500 sq. ft. herb garden, which supports the hotel’s culinary operations and is maintained using recycled water.

In line with greener mobility, the property offers EV charging infrastructure and electric vehicles for guest transport, along with eco-friendly cycling options that encourage low-impact exploration.

Commenting on the milestone, Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “Securing the Green Key renewal for the third year is a strong validation of our team's consistent work behind the scenes. At Novotel Hyderabad Airport, sustainability is part of how we design systems, manage resources, and engage with guests. Each year, we aim to refine our practices and create a hospitality environment that is efficient, responsible, and built for the long term.”

As sustainability continues to shape global hospitality standards, Novotel Hyderabad Airport remains focused on aligning its operations with evolving environmental expectations, demonstrating that guest comfort and long-term ecological responsibility can go hand in hand.


IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the opening of Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, marking a significant addition to Gujarat’s evolving hospitality landscape. Spread across 17 acres, the hotel is positioned as a tranquil green retreat catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the location, Leah Tata, Vice President & Brand Leader, Gateway Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, noted that Gandhidham serves as a key urban hub supporting maritime trade and regional commerce. She added that the hotel is well placed to meet the rising demand driven by the region’s economic growth.

The 93-key property blends regional design influences with contemporary comfort. Surrounded by landscaped lawns and fountains, the hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms that reflect local character while delivering a relaxed stay experience.

Dining at the hotel is anchored by Urban Masala, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant that brings together local specialities and global favourites, along with chef-curated signature dishes. Guests can also enjoy a range of leisure amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa.

For social and corporate gatherings, the hotel features versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, making it suitable for celebrations, conferences, and business meetings alike.

Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, shared, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham and delivering a stay defined by comfort and warm hospitality.

With proximity to key attractions such as Rann of Kutch, Vijay Vilas Palace, and Mandvi Beach, the hotel also offers travellers an entry point to explore the cultural and natural richness of the region.

As part of IHCL’s expansive portfolio, the Gateway brand continues to strengthen its presence across emerging destinations, offering full-service hotels that combine comfort, accessibility, and authentic hospitality experiences.

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