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.


Conrad Bengaluru Appoints Itha Das as Director of Sales Conference and Events

Conrad Bengaluru Appoints Itha Das as Director of Sales Conference and Events

By Hariharan U

Published on March 23, 2026

Conrad Bengaluru has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Itha Das as Director of Sales Conference and Events, reinforcing the hotel's commitment to delivering exceptional event and catering experiences across corporate, social, and MICE segments.

Das brings considerable depth to the role, with a career built around high-impact events, strategic partnerships, and tailored event solutions that consistently deliver results. Her previous role as Associate Director of Sales at Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway saw her lead strategic sales initiatives and expand business opportunities across corporate events, conferences, and social celebrations. Before that, she held the position of Senior Sales Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, further sharpening her expertise in premium hospitality environments.

In her new role at Conrad Bengaluru, Das will oversee catering and MICE operations with a focus on driving business growth, strengthening client relationships, and curating memorable event experiences for both corporate and social gatherings. She will also work closely with the sales and operations teams to develop event solutions that respond to evolving client needs in a city where the demand for premium meetings, conferences, and weddings continues to grow.

Das shared her excitement about the new role. "I am delighted to join Conrad Bengaluru and be part of a team that is renowned for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. I look forward to leveraging my experience to strengthen the hotel's catering and MICE offerings and create memorable events for our guests and partners."

For Conrad Bengaluru, this appointment signals a clear intent to sharpen its positioning as the go-to destination for premium events in the city. With Das's track record and the hotel's existing reputation, that's a goal that looks well within reach.


Cygnett Hotels Appoints Sujan Ganguly as Area Director – Operations & Pre-Opening

Cygnett Hotels Appoints Sujan Ganguly as Area Director – Operations & Pre-Opening

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 23, 2026

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Sujan Ganguly as Area Director – Operations & Pre-Opening, India & Nepal. This move comes as the company continues to grow its presence across key markets in the region and strengthen its leadership team.

Sujan Ganguly brings over three decades of experience in the hospitality industry, with strong expertise in hotel operations and performance management. He has worked with several well-known brands over the years, including Ginger Hotels, Royal Orchid Hotels, Lords Hotels & Resorts, Fortune Hotels, Taj Hotels, Golden Tulip Hotels, Sarovar Hotels, and Peerless Hotels, building a solid track record across different segments.

Known for his people-focused leadership style, he has handled multiple aspects of hotel management, including operations, pre-opening processes, brand development, and revenue optimisation. His approach has consistently focused on building strong teams and improving operational systems across properties.

In his new role, Sujan Ganguly will oversee operational performance and lead pre-opening initiatives for Cygnett Hotels & Resorts across India and Nepal. His responsibilities will include ensuring smooth operations, maintaining brand standards, and enhancing the overall guest experience across the company’s growing portfolio.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, "We are delighted to welcome Sujan Ganguly to the Cygnett family. His extensive experience across leading hospitality brands and his deep understanding of hotel operations will be a valuable asset as we continue to scale our presence across India and neighbouring markets. Sujan's leadership will play an important role in strengthening operational excellence and ensuring that every new Cygnett property opens with the standards and efficiency that our brand stands for."

The appointment comes at a time when Cygnett Hotels & Resorts is actively expanding, with several properties under development and new openings planned across emerging destinations in India and neighbouring regions.


Novotel Jodhpur Appoints Rajinder Singh as Food & Beverage Manager

Novotel Jodhpur Appoints Rajinder Singh as Food & Beverage Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 20, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur has announced the appointment of Rajinder Singh as its new Food & Beverage Manager, strengthening its leadership team in the culinary and dining segment.

With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Rajinder brings solid expertise in handling end-to-end food and beverage operations across well-known hotel brands. He has worked closely on enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and leading teams to maintain consistent service standards. His experience also includes involvement in pre-opening projects, revenue strategies, and developing new dining concepts.

In his new role, Rajinder will oversee all food and beverage operations at Novotel Jodhpur, including restaurants, banquets, and in-room dining. His focus will be on building a stronger culinary identity for the hotel, introducing fresh and innovative offerings, and ensuring a high level of guest satisfaction, in line with the brand’s standards.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, Novotel Jodhpur, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rajinder to our leadership team. His rich experience and passion for hospitality will play a key role in enhancing our food and beverage offerings. We are confident that his vision and leadership will further elevate the dining experience for our guests.”

Speaking on his new role, Rajinder Singh said, “I am excited to join Novotel Jodhpur and be part of a brand that stands for quality and innovation. I look forward to creating memorable dining experiences and contributing to the continued success of the hotel.”

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