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.


Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar Appoints Chef Kailash Singh as Executive Chef for Texas Operations

Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar Appoints Chef Kailash Singh as Executive Chef for Texas Operations

By Hariharan U

Published on July 23, 2026

Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar has appointed Chef Kailash Singh as Executive Chef for its Texas operations, strengthening the restaurant’s culinary leadership as it continues to expand its presence in the U.S. dining market.

Based in Highland Village, Texas, Chef Kailash will oversee the restaurant’s culinary direction, focusing on delivering authentic Indian flavours through contemporary techniques, innovative menu concepts, and elevated dining experiences.

With an international hospitality career spanning India, the United States, Poland, and the UAE, Chef Kailash brings extensive expertise in progressive Indian cuisine, menu development, kitchen operations, and team leadership.

Before joining Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar, Chef Kailash served as Sous Chef at BarNaan, Brookfield, USA. He most recently worked as Chef de Partie at ROOH San Francisco, where he contributed to the restaurant’s progressive Indian dining approach, combining traditional flavours with modern culinary techniques and contemporary presentation.

Earlier in his career, Chef Kailash worked in Warsaw, Poland, where he created Indian-inspired menus for international diners by blending traditional recipes with modern culinary concepts. He also served as Chef de Partie at Namak by Chef Kunal Kapoor at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, specialising in authentic tandoor preparations and regional Indian cuisine.

His professional journey also includes experience with renowned culinary establishments such as Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra, New Delhi; Oven Hot Bakery & Sweets L.L.C., Abu Dhabi; Café Out of the Box, Khan Market; Trinity Residency, Gurugram; and Mojo Blu, Cyber Green.

Throughout his career, Chef Kailash has contributed to multiple pre-opening projects, handling kitchen planning, menu creation, operational systems, and culinary team training.

Commenting on the appointment, Vipul Jain, Founder of Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar, said, "Chef Kailash Singh brings a wealth of international culinary experience and a deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine. His passion for quality, innovation, and authentic flavours aligns perfectly with our vision of offering guests an elevated Indian dining experience."

Speaking about his new role, Chef Kailash Singh said, "It is an honour to join Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar at such an exciting stage of its growth. Throughout my career, I have believed in delivering food with perfection while respecting the authenticity of Indian cuisine. I look forward to creating memorable dining experiences that combine regional Indian flavours with modern culinary craftsmanship for our guests in Texas."

With Chef Kailash Singh leading the kitchen, Delhi6 Indian Kitchen & Bar aims to further strengthen its position as a destination for authentic Indian cuisine in Texas, offering guests a blend of heritage flavours, innovation, and modern hospitality.


Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall Appoints Zeba Hasan as Rooms Division Manager

Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall Appoints Zeba Hasan as Rooms Division Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 23, 2026

Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall has announced the appointment of Zeba Hasan as its new Rooms Division Manager, strengthening the hotel's leadership team as it continues to enhance guest experiences and operational excellence.

In her new role, Zeba will lead the hotel's Rooms Division, overseeing key guest-facing operations with a focus on maintaining high service standards, developing teams and delivering seamless guest experiences. She will also work closely with the leadership team to support the hotel's overall business goals.

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With more than a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Zeba has built her career across leading Accor properties in India. Before joining Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, she served as Cluster Front Office Manager at Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim, where she managed front office operations across both hotels.

During her tenure, she played an important role in improving guest engagement and operational performance while helping the property become India's highest enrolment-performing hotel for the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty programme.

Commenting on the appointment, Ram Shetty, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Zeba to Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall. Her extensive experience, collaborative leadership style and deep understanding of the Accor ecosystem make her a valuable addition to our team. With a strong focus on driving commercial growth, enhancing guest engagement, and elevating the hotel's market presence, Zeba's appointment comes at a pivotal time. Her expertise will support our vision of delivering memorable experiences while strengthening our positioning in Bengaluru's competitive hospitality landscape. We are confident that she will further strengthen our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality."

Speaking about her appointment, Zeba Hasan said:

"I am delighted to join Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall and begin this exciting new chapter in my journey with Accor. The opportunity to work with such a passionate team and contribute to a hotel that is known for its warm hospitality and service culture is truly exciting. I am committed to creating exceptional guest experiences by building a high-performing Rooms Division that places equal emphasis on service excellence, operational efficiency, and team engagement. Together with the team, I look forward to introducing thoughtful initiatives that enhance guest satisfaction while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality. I look forward to working alongside the team to build on the hotel's strong foundation and continue creating meaningful and memorable experiences for every guest."

With her strong operational background and experience within the Accor network, Zeba's appointment is expected to further strengthen the hotel's service standards while supporting its continued growth in Bengaluru's competitive hospitality market.


Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints Kishor Chander Joshi as Director of Finance & Business Support

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints Kishor Chander Joshi as Director of Finance & Business Support

By Hariharan U

Published on July 22, 2026

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has announced the appointment of Kishor Chander Joshi as its new Director of Finance & Business Support, strengthening the hotel’s leadership team with his extensive expertise in hospitality finance and strategic business management.

With over 20 years of experience across India’s hospitality sector, Kishor brings strong capabilities in financial management, strategic planning, budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and business performance optimisation.

Prior to joining Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, Kishor served as Assistant Director of Finance at Renaissance Goa Hotel, where he managed finance and accounting operations, supported financial planning processes, prepared budgets and forecasts, monitored business performance, and implemented initiatives to improve operational efficiency.

Kishor began his hospitality career with Dalmia Resorts International Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, and has since worked with several reputed hospitality brands, including Lemon Tree Hotels, Park Plaza New Delhi, Pride Plaza Aerocity New Delhi, Holiday Inn Kolkata, Holiday Inn Chandigarh, Morpho Hotels & Resorts India Pvt. Ltd., Novotel Guwahati, and Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri.

In his new role at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, Kishor will lead the finance and business support function, focusing on strengthening financial governance, improving operational performance, and supporting the hotel’s strategic growth objectives.

Commenting on the appointment, Sharad K. Upadhyay, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Kishor Chander Joshi to the leadership team at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida. His extensive experience in hospitality finance, strategic mindset, and proven leadership capabilities make him an invaluable addition to our organisation. We are confident that his expertise will further strengthen our financial performance and support the hotel's continued growth and success. We wish him every success in his new role."

Speaking about his appointment, Kishor Chander Joshi said:

"I am excited to join Crowne Plaza Greater Noida and become part of a dynamic team committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. I look forward to contributing to the hotel's growth by strengthening financial excellence, fostering collaboration, and supporting the organisation's long-term business objectives."

Beyond his professional journey, Kishor enjoys playing cricket and reading books, reflecting his passion for teamwork, continuous learning, and personal development.

With this appointment, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida continues to strengthen its leadership team while remaining focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and sustainable business growth.

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