Sanjay Kumar Jain Assumes Leadership Role at IRCTC

Sanjay Kumar Jain Assumes Leadership Role at IRCTC

By Author

Published on February 19, 2024

In a significant move for the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC), Mr. Sanjay Kumar Jain, a seasoned Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS) Officer of the 1990 batch, has taken on the key position of Chairman & Managing Director. With a career spanning over three decades, Mr. Jain brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of exemplary leadership within the Ministry of Railways and public sector undertakings (PSUs).

Mr. Jain's journey reflects his dynamic leadership and expertise in policy formulation, commercial ventures, and developmental initiatives across diverse government sectors. As a qualified Chartered Accountant (CA), he has made significant contributions in pivotal roles such as Principal Chief Commercial Manager at Northern Railway, Group General Manager (North Zone) at IRCTC, and Divisional Railway Manager at Mumbai Central Railway.

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During his tenure at IRCTC, Mr. Jain spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that redefined luxury travel experiences, including enhancing the Maharajas’ Express and introducing India’s first ‘Executive Lounge’ at New Delhi Railway Station. Under his leadership, the tourism business of IRCTC in the North Zone witnessed exponential growth, reflecting his strategic vision and innovative marketing approaches.

As Divisional Railway Manager in Mumbai, Mr. Jain demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing one of the largest suburban railway networks, catering to millions of commuters daily. His commitment to cleanliness and heritage conservation was exemplified by initiatives like the Swachhata Mission and the restoration of Mumbai’s Byculla Railway Station, recognized with prestigious awards including UNESCO’s Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage Award.

Mr. Jain's tenure was also marked by initiatives promoting gender equality and environmental sustainability, such as establishing the first all-women-run railway station at Matunga, Mumbai, and launching the “Muck Special” train for garbage collection along railway lines. His focus on passenger amenities and sustainable development reflects his commitment to enhancing the overall railway experience while ensuring environmental stewardship.

Mr. Jain’s contributions have been duly acknowledged by the Ministry of Railways, with prestigious awards including the Minister of Railways Award for Meritorious Services, underscoring his dedication and impact on the railway ecosystem.

As Mr. Sanjay Kumar Jain assumes this pivotal role at IRCTC, his extensive experience and visionary leadership are poised to drive the corporation towards greater heights of success, further enriching the travel experiences of millions of passengers across the country.


Keventers Appoints Shaurya Prabhat as CEO

Keventers Appoints Shaurya Prabhat as CEO

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

Keventers has appointed Shaurya Prabhat as its Chief Executive Officer, marking a new phase of leadership for the heritage brand. He succeeds Agastya Dalmia, who played a key role in bringing the brand back into the spotlight for a new generation of consumers.

An eight-year veteran of the company, Shaurya joined Keventers in 2017 to lead business development when the brand was largely franchise-driven. Over time, he took on wider responsibilities across strategy, operations, marketing, HR, and business excellence, eventually shaping the company’s overall direction.

Before joining Keventers, he worked with The Smart Cube, advising global clients across industries such as retail, banking, pharma, and oil and gas. Academically, he holds a degree from University of London and a master’s from University of Warwick.

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Shaurya Prabhat said, “I'd like to thank the Board for entrusting me with the responsibility of shaping the company's next phase of growth. What I've learned over eight years is that the mission never really changes: grow the company, grow the brand, and do it with honesty. If you manage your inputs with excellence, the outcomes take care of themselves. I'm extremely excited about the vast opportunities ahead for us.”

As part of his immediate plans, Shaurya is looking to open 70 new outlets over the next year, with a larger goal of significantly scaling the business over the coming years. The brand is also exploring opportunities beyond outlets, including retail, FMCG, quick commerce, and institutional sales, aligning with its broader vision of building a multi-brand food and beverage portfolio.

Keventers is also sharpening its focus on younger consumers, especially Gen Z, by creating products and experiences that connect with their preferences. From menu innovations like waffles and boba to a stronger presence on social media, the brand is adapting to changing consumer behaviour while staying rooted in its legacy.

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Commenting on the transition, Agastya Dalmia said, “I have worked alongside Shaurya for over eight years and known him for longer - I have seen how he thinks, how he leads, and how deeply he cares about this brand. He has led almost all significant decisions we have taken over the years and helped us navigate through the most complex of situations – from Covid and restructuring our business model to fundraising and governance. I could not be prouder of what we have built together, and I could not be more confident about what he will build next.”

Founded in 1925, Keventers continues to be one of India’s most recognised food and beverage brands, known for its milkshakes, waffles, and ice creams, with a growing presence across major cities.


MRG Group Appoints Sujata Gowda as Group GM Marketing & Communications

MRG Group Appoints Sujata Gowda as Group GM Marketing & Communications

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

MRG Group has appointed Sujata Gowda as Group General ManagerMarketing & Communications, strengthening its leadership team as it prepares for its next phase of growth.

With over 19 years of experience across airlines, hospitality, real estate, and media, Sujata brings a well-rounded understanding of brand building and strategic communication. Over the years, she has worked with leading names such as Sahara Airlines, Kingfisher Airlines, Taj Hotels, IHG, and Marriott International.

Her career has included key roles in pre-opening hotel projects across cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad, before moving to Bengaluru. Beyond hospitality, she has also built experience in media and partnerships, most recently serving as Regional Head – Brand & Partnership at Times Internet Limited, where she worked on strategic collaborations linked to a major card launch with ICICI Bank.

Sujata’s expertise spans multiple areas including sales, marketing, operations, brand strategy, media planning, corporate communications, and team management. Her strong relationships across print, electronic, and digital media are expected to support the group’s efforts to expand its brand presence and reach.

Sharing her thoughts on the new role, Sujata Gowda said, “A new fresh start is always nerve-recking and exciting at the same time. Marketing & communication in today's day and age is a pivotal role. I couldn't have joined MRG Group at a better time as this is going to be the year of expansion, dynamic changes and accelerated growth. Extremely excited to collate my 19 years of expertise with fostering collaborations with existing teams as the best time for new beginning is NOW.”

With this appointment, MRG Group continues to invest in experienced leadership as it looks to scale operations and strengthen its market positioning.


Hilton Manyata Appoints Ashish Singh as Director of Sales

Hilton Manyata Appoints Ashish Singh as Director of Sales

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park has appointed Ashish Singh as Director of Sales, strengthening its leadership team as it continues to expand its presence in Bengaluru’s competitive hospitality market.

With over 13 years of experience in hospitality sales and business development, Singh brings a strong track record of driving revenue growth, identifying new business opportunities, and building long-term client relationships across corporate and MICE segments.

He joins from The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, where he served as Director of Catering and played a key role in managing high-impact events while improving catering performance. His journey with the brand also included roles such as Assistant Director of Sales and Senior Sales Manager, reflecting his steady growth and deep understanding of market trends.

Singh’s experience also includes working with leading hospitality brands like Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru and The Park Hotels, giving him a well-rounded perspective on sales leadership in urban markets.

In his new role, he will lead the property’s sales strategy with a focus on driving growth, strengthening corporate relationships, and expanding market share. His responsibilities will include building strategic partnerships, improving revenue streams, and positioning the hotel as a preferred choice for business travel and large-scale events.

With this appointment, Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park continues to invest in experienced talent, further strengthening its position in Bengaluru’s growing hospitality landscape

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