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.


Hyatt Centric Chandigarh Promotes Vaishali Bali to Director of Marketing

Hyatt Centric Chandigarh Promotes Vaishali Bali to Director of Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 23, 2026

Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh has promoted Vaishali Bali to Director of Marketing, recognising her contribution to the hotel's brand growth and marketing initiatives. She previously served as Marketing & Communications Manager and will now lead the hotel's overall marketing and communications strategy, digital initiatives, public relations, brand positioning and strategic partnerships.

In her new role, Bali will focus on driving business growth, strengthening the hotel's market presence and further establishing it as a lifestyle destination in the heart of Chandigarh.

With over a decade of experience in hospitality marketing and communications, Bali brings expertise in brand management, digital marketing, media relations and integrated marketing campaigns. Before joining Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh, she worked as PR & Marketing Manager at Alila Diwa Goa, where she led branding, digital initiatives, public relations and influencer collaborations.

Earlier in her career, she was associated with The Club Mumbai, part of Khanna Hotels. She progressed from Sales Executive to Deputy Marketing Manager, overseeing marketing initiatives, strategic alliances and brand engagement activities.

During her tenure as Marketing & Communications Manager at Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh, Bali played an important role in strengthening the hotel's brand positioning, expanding its digital presence and building its profile in Chandigarh's hospitality and lifestyle market. Her marketing initiatives contributed to increased website traffic, improved traffic quality and stronger direct booking performance.

She was also instrumental in the hotel's participation in Hyatt Centric's global "Start Here. Discover Everywhere." campaign, with Chandigarh selected as the only participating hotel from India alongside international destinations.

Her work has included social media collaborations with personalities such as Atul Kasbekar and Nitibha Kaul. She has also contributed to the launch and positioning of PVT LTD, described as Chandigarh's first speakeasy, and continued brand-building initiatives for KOYO KOYO.

During this period, the hotel received several industry accolades, including Best City Hotel at Travel + Leisure India's Best Awards 2025. Its dining venues also earned recognition at the Travel + Leisure Delicious Dining Awards 2026, reflecting the hotel's growing brand visibility and lifestyle offering.

Commenting on her promotion, Vaishali Bali, Director of Marketing at Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh, said, "I am delighted to take on this expanded responsibility and continue my journey with Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh. In my new role, I will continue to drive business growth, strengthen the hotel's brand positioning, and explore fresh opportunities to connect with our audiences. My focus will be on creating impactful marketing initiatives, showcasing the hotel's distinctive experiences, and building meaningful partnerships that further establish our presence in the market."

The promotion highlights Hyatt Centric Sector-17 Chandigarh's focus on recognising talent and strengthening its leadership team as it continues to develop its lifestyle offering and build stronger connections with the local community.


Chef Md. Arif Qureshi Leads Culinary Operations at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida

Chef Md. Arif Qureshi Leads Culinary Operations at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2026

Chef Md. Arif Qureshi serves as Chef de Cuisine at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida, bringing around 15 years of culinary experience across luxury hospitality properties in India and international markets. His expertise spans all-day dining, menu development, food production, banquet management and kitchen operations.

Throughout his career, Chef Qureshi has worked with several established hospitality brands, including The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur; Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort, Ras Al Khaimah; Le Méridien Gurgaon; DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Residences, Al Barsha, Dubai; Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani Square; and The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi.

His experience across these properties has exposed him to diverse culinary environments, varying guest expectations and the operational requirements of luxury hotel kitchens.

Chef Qureshi specialises in menu planning, recipe development, food preparation, all-day dining and large-scale banquet operations. His work focuses on maintaining consistency in food quality, taste and presentation while adhering to food safety, hygiene and sanitation standards.

His responsibilities also extend to team coordination, staff mentoring and daily kitchen management. These areas play an important role in ensuring smooth food production across different dining formats and service requirements.

Managing culinary operations in a hotel environment requires coordination between kitchen teams, service staff and other departments, particularly during high-volume dining periods and large events. Chef Qureshi's experience across established hotel operations has equipped him to manage these requirements while maintaining quality and operational efficiency.

At Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida, he contributes to the property's food and beverage operations, with a focus on all-day dining, menu execution and kitchen team management.

With experience spanning leading hospitality brands in India and overseas, Chef Qureshi continues to focus on culinary development, efficient kitchen operations and delivering consistent dining experiences.


Hyatt Centric Janakpuri Appoints Malkeet Singh as Human Resources Manager

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri Appoints Malkeet Singh as Human Resources Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2026

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi, has appointed Malkeet Singh as Human Resources Manager, strengthening its focus on talent development, colleague engagement and workplace culture. Singh brings 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with established hotel groups including Hyatt, Radisson and IHG.

Before joining Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, Singh served as Associate Director of Human Resources at Radisson Group. His professional experience also includes HR leadership positions at Radisson Noida, Holiday Inn Amritsar and Crowne Plaza Today Gurugram.

Throughout his career, Singh has developed expertise in talent management, colleague engagement and team development. His experience includes working with established hotel operations and contributing to pre-opening initiatives, giving him exposure to different aspects of hospitality human resources.

In his new role, Singh will focus on supporting colleague growth, fostering an engaging workplace and strengthening the hotel's people-focused culture.

Commenting on his appointment, Singh said, “Every day is an opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s growth and experience. I believe that when people feel heard, engaged and motivated, they can achieve their best. I look forward to bringing this philosophy to Hyatt Centric Janakpuri and creating an environment where colleagues feel valued and inspired to grow.”

The appointment reflects Hyatt Centric Janakpuri's continued emphasis on nurturing talent and creating a positive work environment where colleagues can develop professionally and contribute to the hotel's operations.

About Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri is a lifestyle hotel located in West Delhi, offering access to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Janakpuri West Metro Station, Pacific Mall and major city attractions. The property features contemporary accommodation and a multi-cuisine restaurant, Kitchen District.

With extensive banquet facilities for weddings, corporate events and social celebrations, the hotel also offers a fitness centre, poolside facilities and a spa.

For more information, visit the official hotel website.

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