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By Nishang Narayan
Published on June 5, 2025
WHSmith India has appointed Shantanu Chakravartty as its new Chief Executive Officer and Director, marking a major milestone in its journey to redefine travel retail in India. A dynamic leader with more than 15 years of experience in the travel retail space, Shantanu steps into this role with an ambitious vision: to triple the company’s revenue and expand its store presence fivefold in the next four years.
Over the past seven years, Shantanu has already shaped WHSmith India’s most defining chapters. From navigating the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, where he helped safeguard over 20,000 jobs, to spearheading strategic digital upgrades, his impact has been both stabilizing and transformative.
“I’ve always believed disruption is an invitation to rebuild stronger,” said Shantanu. “That’s why we created the Airport Services Association of India—to ensure the industry stayed resilient through 2020 and 2021.”
Today, WHSmith India operates 40 stores across India’s metro stations, airports, and university campuses. Under Shantanu’s leadership, the brand now aims to increase its footprint by 5x and grow revenue from ₹200 crores to ₹500 crores in the next three years.
“Retail is not just a business—it’s a platform to create livelihoods and opportunities,” he added. “Every new store we open is another chance for people to grow, thrive, and find a future in this industry.”
Beyond numbers, Shantanu’s strategy focuses on enhancing customer experience, merchandising logic, and supply chain excellence—transforming WHSmith stores into high-engagement retail hubs, even in short dwell-time locations like airports and stations.
“From business flyers to leisure travellers, our goal is convenience, consistency, and delight,” he said. “WHSmith stores are no longer just transit points—they’re travel companions.”
Known for his hands-on leadership, Shantanu is deeply invested in mentoring frontline teams and empowering staff feedback loops. He also serves pro bono as General Secretary of the Airport Services Association of India, playing a key role in shaping industry policies and promoting collaborative growth.
As India’s aviation industry gears up for exponential growth, WHSmith India is positioning itself to lead the charge—with tech-led operations, a people-first culture, and scalable infrastructure that meets the needs of tomorrow’s travellers.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 27, 2025
Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel has announced the appointment of Saurabh Mishra as its new Director of Sales and Marketing. With over 15 years of experience across renowned hospitality brands including Hyatt, IHG, Roseate, Accor, Taj, and The Claridges, Mishra brings deep expertise in sales, marketing, and event management.
In his new role, he will focus on driving revenue growth, expanding market reach, and enhancing guest experiences by leading corporate, MICE, social, and strategic partnership initiatives. His career includes leadership roles at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini, Roseate Hotels & Resorts, and Hyatt Regency Lucknow.
Sharing his excitement, Mishra said, “I am thrilled to join the Sheraton Grand Pune and contribute to the hotel's continued success. Pune's dynamic business landscape and vibrant culture present incredible opportunities. I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive innovative sales strategies, strengthen key partnerships and create memorable experiences that exceed our guests' expectations while positioning the hotel as the city's premier destination for corporate and leisure travellers.”
Welcoming him, Supreet Roy, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel, said, “We are delighted to welcome Saurabh. His track record, strategic vision, and leadership make him the ideal choice to advance our sales and marketing goals and strengthen our market position.”
Mishra is widely recognized for creating revenue-maximizing strategies, leading high-performing teams, and executing large-scale corporate events, exhibitions, and luxury weddings. His appointment reflects Sheraton Grand Pune’s commitment to attracting top talent and maintaining its reputation as a leading hospitality destination in Pune.
Tamarind Global, one of India’s foremost DMCs and a trusted name in travel, hospitality, and event management, is strengthening its footprint in South India with a key leadership move. The company has elevated Amal Senan as Head of Sales & Operations, South India, a role in which he will oversee business across Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Amal, who has been with Tamarind Global for over 14 years, brings rich experience and deep market understanding. In his new role, he will focus on driving business development, building strong partner relations, and exploring new opportunities across all company verticals.
The company’s offices in Kochi, Bengaluru, and Chennai are set to play a bigger role in scaling up South India operations. Kerala and other regional hubs remain priority markets as Tamarind Global invests in immersive local excursions, boutique travel experiences, best-in-class transport services, and partnerships with local vendors.
Sharing his thoughts on the expansion, Louis D’Souza, Managing Partner, Tamarind Global, said: “Driven by its unique culture, serenity and age-old traditions paired with scenic destinations, South India remains a strong market for us. By strengthening our presence here under Amal’s leadership, we aim to deliver stronger value to our clients and partners. This expansion is aimed at bolstering our local relationships, updated services, and curating new opportunities in the vibrant region.”
Expressing his excitement, Amal Senan added: “I am excited to take on the new role and lead Tamarind Global’s strategic growth across South India. Our strong teams in the region are equipped to strengthen partnerships, uplift service offerings including authentic cultural immersions and tailored event experiences, and present the unique travel market to travellers from across the world.”
With this move, Tamarind Global continues its commitment to delivering enriched experiences and curated travel solutions, further strengthening its presence in India’s vibrant southern markets.
By Hariharan U
Published on August 26, 2025
The Israel Ministry of Tourism has announced the appointment of Ms. Galit Hoffman as the new Consul-Tourism Affairs for India. In her new role, she will lead the country’s tourism promotion strategy in India, focusing on strengthening Israel’s position as a diverse and enriching travel destination.
Ms. Hoffman will work closely with travel trade professionals, airlines, media partners, and digital platforms to enhance awareness and expand opportunities for tourism between India and Israel. Her efforts will be centered on showcasing Israel’s vibrant culture, history, landscapes, and experiences to Indian travelers.
The appointment comes at a time when Israel is keen on further strengthening its tourism ties with India, which has emerged as a significant source market in recent years. With her leadership, the Ministry aims to build stronger collaborations with the Indian travel and hospitality ecosystem, creating more avenues for growth and exchange.
The Ministry has also expressed openness to engaging with media and industry stakeholders for interviews and discussions in the coming weeks, offering insights into Israel’s tourism vision for the Indian market.
With Ms. Galit Hoffman at the helm of tourism affairs in India, Israel Ministry of Tourism is looking forward to reinforcing its presence and inspiring more Indian travelers to explore the country’s unique offerings.
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