Rajiv Ghumman Takes Charge as Global Business Head at Loca Loka

Rajiv Ghumman Takes Charge as Global Business Head at Loca Loka

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 29, 2025

Loca Loka, the Indian AlcoBev company making waves worldwide, has appointed Rajiv Ghumman as its Global Business Head, marking a significant step in its global growth journey. With over two decades of experience in the AlcoBev industry, Rajiv has worked with renowned brands such as Bacardi, Jose Cuervo, and United Distillers India Ltd, where he led marketing for iconic names like Black & White, Vat 69, and White Horse Whisky.

In his new role, Rajiv will focus on global expansion strategies, sales operations, and innovative marketing initiatives to establish Loca Loka as a leading name in premium tequila. The company, which recently launched in the United States and Southeast Asia, aims to tap into the rising global demand for high-quality agave-based spirits.

Commenting on his appointment, Rajiv Ghumman shared, “It is an honor to step into this global role at such a transformative time for Loca Loka and the tequila industry at large. Tequila is more than just a spirit; it embodies tradition, culture, and the artistry of Mexico. I’m excited to bring our authentic tequila experience to new audiences, delivering exceptional quality and fostering brand loyalty worldwide.”

Harsha Vadlamudi, Founder of Loca Loka, expressed confidence in Rajiv’s leadership: “Rajiv has consistently demonstrated unparalleled strategic insight and a deep understanding of the industry. As we expand into key markets like the US, Southeast Asia, Dubai, and London, his expertise will be instrumental in establishing Loca Loka as a global force in the tequila category.”

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Global Expansion and Industry Growth

In the past six months, Loca Loka has achieved major milestones. The brand launched its handcrafted tequila offerings—Tequila Blanco and Tequila Reposado—in the United States and Southeast Asia, targeting markets with high demand for premium spirits. With reports showing a CAGR of 8.1% in the global tequila market (2022-2028), Loca Loka is poised to capitalize on the growing trend toward premium and craft tequila.

The Tequila Blanco, retailing at $40, offers a vibrant profile with fruity flavors of cooked agave and floral notes from Highland agaves. The Reposado, priced at $49, boasts a richer aroma and is aged in French and American oak barrels, creating a smooth, premium experience.

About Loca Loka

Founded by Rana Daggubati, Anirudh Ravichander, and Harsha Vadlamudi, Loca Loka represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. With a commitment to crafting exceptional spirits that narrate stories of heritage and cross-cultural collaboration, the company embodies modern India's vibrant energy. Starting with tequila, Loca Loka aims to expand its portfolio, catering to a global audience with unique and high-quality offerings.

With Rajiv Ghumman at the helm, Loca Loka is set to redefine the tequila landscape and establish itself as a global powerhouse in the AlcoBev industry.


Treat Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership With Two Key Appointments in Nashik & Sambhajinagar

Treat Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership With Two Key Appointments in Nashik & Sambhajinagar

By Hariharan U

Published on September 17, 2025

Treat Hotels & Resorts has announced two significant leadership appointments, further strengthening its team as the brand continues to grow its presence in Nashik and Sambhajinagar.

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Mr. Rahuul Jaggiasi has been named Cluster General Manager – Nashik & Sambhajinagar. With over 20 years of experience, he is recognised for his expertise in brand building, pre-openings, operations, and luxury guest experiences. An alumnus of IHM-Aurangabad, affiliated with Huddersfield University, UK, Rahuul began his career with the Taj Group of Hotels. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with Lemon Tree Hotels, Pride Group of Hotels, Marriott International, Concept Hospitality, ITC Hotels’ Mementos Ekaaya Udaipur, and Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur. Most recently, he was associated with Foodlink F&B Holdings, where he focused on expanding luxury catering and experiential dining in South India. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening operations, driving strategic growth, and enhancing guest experiences across the Nashik and Sambhajinagar properties.

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Alongside this, Mr. Parikshit Shouche has been appointed as General ManagerSales, Nashik Region. With 21 years of experience in hospitality sales, Parikshit has developed strong expertise in revenue generation and market expansion. An alumnus of MGV’s College of Hotel Management & Technologies, Nashik, he also holds a B.A. in History. He began his career with Taj Residency and went on to work with Ginger Hotels and Express Inn. At Ibis Nashik, he served for more than a decade in multiple roles, eventually becoming Director of Sales. Most recently, he was associated with Courtyard by Marriott as Director of Sales & Marketing. In his new position, he will lead sales strategies, strengthen market presence, and drive business growth for Treat Hotels & Resorts.

These appointments mark a strategic step for Treat Hotels & Resorts as it builds a robust leadership team to deliver exceptional hospitality and further its vision for growth in key markets.


MRG Group Appoints Amitesh Osta as Chief Human Resource Officer

MRG Group Appoints Amitesh Osta as Chief Human Resource Officer

By Hariharan U

Published on September 17, 2025

MRG Group has announced the appointment of Amitesh Osta as its new Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO), further bolstering its leadership team as it charts an ambitious growth path in the hospitality sector.

Amitesh brings over 17 years of cross-industry experience spanning FMCG, retail, and consumer businesses. Prior to joining MRG Group, he was Business Head – HR at Metro Cash & Carry India, where he partnered closely with the COO to shape people strategies, lead large-scale workforce reorganizations, and steer change management.

His professional journey also includes leadership roles at Anheuser-Busch InBev, Johnson & Johnson, and Hindustan Unilever Ltd. Recognised for building future-ready organisations, Amitesh has extensive expertise in HR strategy, succession planning, M&A people integration, employee relations, and digital transformation of HR practices.

Welcoming him to the Group, Dr. K. Prakash Shetty, Founder & Chairman of MRG Group, said,“At MRG Group, we believe that our people are at the heart of our success. As we expand our footprint and prepare for the next phase of growth, it is imperative that we continue to invest in building a strong and agile workforce. Amitesh’s wealth of experience in leading HR transformation and creating scalable people strategies makes him an ideal fit to drive our vision forward.”

Sharing his excitement, Mr. Osta added, “I am delighted to join MRG Group at such a pivotal stage of its journey. My priority will be to create a high-performing, inclusive, and engaged workforce that enables the Group to deliver on its ambitious growth plans and further elevate its position in the Indian hospitality landscape.”

 An alumnus of Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS), Ranchi, Amitesh holds an MBA in Human Resources and has been recognised with several industry accolades for his contributions to the HR field.

With this appointment, MRG Group reinforces its commitment to nurturing talent, strengthening leadership, and fostering a workplace culture aligned with its vision of becoming a leading name in hospitality.


Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri Appoints Manish Chakraborty as General Manager

Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri Appoints Manish Chakraborty as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 17, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri has announced the appointment of Manish Chakraborty as its new general manager. Known for his expertise in operations, guest experience, and business performance, Chakraborty has consistently delivered growth and excellence throughout his career.

With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Chakraborty has worked with globally renowned brands including Marriott, Accor, Taj, Oberoi, and Leela. Most recently, he served as the director of operations at Novotel & Ibis Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, overseeing the 526-room dual property. Under his leadership, the property recorded exceptional guest satisfaction and strengthened overall operational performance.

His career also includes leadership roles at Westin Sohna Gurgaon, Marriott Whitefield Bengaluru, Jaipur Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott Hyderabad, Leela Palace Udaipur, Taj Bengal Kolkata, and The Oberoi Grand Kolkata.

Chakraborty’s contributions have been widely recognised. He was named “Manager of the Year” by Marriott International Worldwide Business Council in 2018 and received the International Hospitality Day Award in London in 2017. Additionally, he has served on Marriott’s Rooms Advisory Board, shaping operational strategies across the continent.

Commenting on his new role, Manish Chakraborty said,

“I am delighted to join Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri and look forward to working with the team to create exceptional guest experiences while strengthening the hotel’s positioning as a preferred destination in the region.”

With his extensive experience and proven track record, Chakraborty is set to drive new benchmarks in service and operational excellence at Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri.

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