Shangri-La Muscat Welcomes Joakim Velinder as New Sales and Marketing Director

Shangri-La Muscat Welcomes Joakim Velinder as New Sales and Marketing Director

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 19, 2024

Come May 19, 2024, Shangri-La Muscat in Oman will see the appointment of Joakim Velinder as the Director of Sales and Marketing. Hailing from Sweden, Velinder's expertise will enhance the leadership team at the renowned Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn, two luxurious properties nestled along the picturesque shores of the Gulf of Oman.

With an illustrious background, Velinder joins Shangri-La Group from the Hyatt Group, bringing with him a wealth of experience and accolades as an award-winning leader. His career spans commercial roles across Europe and the Middle East, with notable assignments in Dubai, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and most recently, as the Director of Sales and Marketing for Alila Hotels in Oman.

Velinder's deep understanding of the regional market dynamics, coupled with his broad operational and strategic knowledge, makes him a valuable addition to the Shangri-La team. His vision aligns with the ethos of the Shangri-La Group, which emphasizes blending local flair with international standards of luxury and elegance.

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Nick Flynn, Hotel Manager, expressed his excitement about Velinder joining the leadership team, highlighting his extensive experience and broad knowledge of the industry and the region. With Velinder's proven track record of innovation and meticulous strategic planning, Shangri-La Muscat anticipates a bright future under his guidance.

As Velinder takes on this new role, he aims to drive business growth in key source markets while ensuring that Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn continue to offer warm and hospitable experiences to guests from around the world.


Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Welcomes Sachin Katoch as Director of Sales

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Welcomes Sachin Katoch as Director of Sales

By Hariharan U

Published on November 17, 2025

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of Sachin Katoch as the new Director of Sales, bringing onboard a seasoned hospitality professional with a strong background in sales and leadership. Sachin holds an MBA in Marketing & Finance from Delhi Business School and has spent over a decade building his expertise across some of India’s most respected hotel brands.

Sachin began his career in February 2012 as a Sales Executive with Fariyas Hotel and Resorts, managing corporate sales for both Fariyas Resort Lonavala and Fariyas Mumbai. His performance led to a promotion to Assistant Sales Manager in July 2013.

In February 2014, he joined Concept Hospitality as an Assistant Sales Manager, and later moved to Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport in the same role. His journey continued in July 2016 when he took on the position of Regional Sales Manager – Mumbai at Fairmont Jaipur, eventually transitioning to the hotel as a Sales Manager in June 2017.

Sachin’s next move was to Hilton Jaipur, where he joined as Senior Sales Manager in April 2019 and grew into the position of Associate Director of Sales in January 2022. His career then took him to Mumbai as Associate Director of Sales at JW Marriott Juhu Mumbai in July 2022.

In March 2023, Sachin returned to Fairmont Jaipur as Associate Director of Sales, taking on additional responsibilities as Cluster Associate Director of Sales in December 2023. In January 2025, he stepped into the role of Director of Events, which he held until joining Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty.

Sachin comes from the peaceful Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh and is a member of the Chandravanshi Rajput Katoch clan, a lineage known for courage, honour, and a tradition of service to the nation.

The team at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty is delighted to welcome Sachin and looks forward to the experience, vision, and leadership he brings to the role.


Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore appoints Sahil Ranaut as general manager

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore appoints Sahil Ranaut as general manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 14, 2025

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore has announced the appointment of Sahil Ranaut as its new general manager. In this role, Ranaut will lead the hotel’s dynamic team and oversee all operations, with a strong focus on elevating guest experiences and driving impactful business results.

Ranaut brings over 16 years of progressive experience in the hospitality industry, having started his career with Marriott in 2009 as a Voyager Management Trainee in revenue management. His journey includes notable tenures with both Marriott and IHG Group before joining Hyatt in 2019.

Most recently, he served as Area Director of Revenue Management at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, where he successfully led revenue strategies for 14 hotels across southern India, demonstrating a results-driven approach complemented by creativity and precision.

Ranaut’s leadership style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, emphasizing that genuine human connection is the foundation of impactful hospitality. His approach balances ambitious business goals with creativity, fueled by his passion for culinary arts and attention to detail.

Reflecting on his new role, Sahil Ranaut said, “As I begin this exciting new phase, I’m truly looking forward to collaborating closely with our incredible Hyatt colleagues to elevate the guest experience while driving impactful business results. I remain deeply grateful to the mentors and teammates who have shaped my journey so far, your guidance, support, and belief have made all the difference. Here’s to continued growth, meaningful partnerships, and creating memorable moments for our guests and teams alike.”

With this appointment, Hyatt Centric MG Road continues to strengthen its leadership and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences infused with energy, style, and purpose.


Fortune Hotels appoints Anuj Chaurasia as General Manager – Business Development

Fortune Hotels appoints Anuj Chaurasia as General Manager – Business Development

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 14, 2025

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels Group, has announced the appointment of Anuj Chaurasia as General Manager, Business Development, based out of its corporate headquarters in Gurugram.

With over 17 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Chaurasia brings deep expertise in business development, brand expansion, and strategic partnerships. In his new role, he will spearhead the brand’s business development initiatives and contribute to the growth and expansion of the Fortune Hotels portfolio across key markets in India.

Prior to joining Fortune Hotels, Chaurasia held leadership roles with several reputed hospitality brands including Royal Orchid Hotels Limited, Treebo Hospitality Ventures Private Limited, Spree Hospitality, Lemon Tree Hotels, and Taj Hotels and Resorts.

Most recently, he served as Vice President, Licensed Brands Development at Treebo Hospitality Ventures Private Limited, where he successfully led the development of master franchisee brands such as Park Inn and Suites by Radisson, Mercure Hotels, and Ibis Hotels.

Fortune Hotels said that Chaurasia’s appointment marks a significant step in strengthening its leadership and expanding its footprint across India’s growing hospitality landscape.

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