Sunset Hospitality Group Appoints New Chief Operating Officer for Sunset Hotels & Resorts

Sunset Hospitality Group Appoints New Chief Operating Officer for Sunset Hotels & Resorts

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 19, 2024

Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Philipp Knuepfer as the new Chief Operating Officer of Sunset Hotels & Resorts. With over 20 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality sector, Philipp will play a key role in supporting the growth of Sunset Hotels & Resorts and overseeing global operations, solidifying SHG’s reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry.

The strategic hire follows SHG’s recent announcement of the new Sunset Hotels & Resorts and an ambitious expansion plan to develop, open, and operate 20 new hotels by the end of 2025. The beginning of 2024 saw SHG accelerate its hotel portfolio expansion by acquiring the renowned Gran Hotel La Florida in Barcelona, which is set to be renovated in time for its 100-year anniversary in 2025. Sunset Hotels & Resorts currently operates a portfolio of five hotels, with a strong pipeline of projects in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

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Philipp joins SHG from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, where he served as Area Vice President and General Manager, successfully managing the group’s portfolio across Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Philippines. His tenure with Mandarin Oriental included senior management positions in Hawaii, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Washington D.C., and Boston. Philipp's strategic capabilities and commercial expertise in both developed and developing markets will be essential in contributing to SHG’s growth and long-term success.

A German national, Philipp holds a Hotel Management degree from the International School for Hotel Business in Germany and an MBA from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. He is a graduate of the Cornell Hotel School in Ithaca, New York, and has completed advanced leadership education at the London Business School and Columbia University.

Assuming the role of Chief Operating Officer, Philipp will be based out of SHG’s Singapore office, adding value for the Group’s investors and stakeholders in Asia. SHG has already established a solid presence in South Asia with homegrown brands like Attiko, Azure Beach, and Hanu coming soon to Vietnam, and the highly acclaimed hotspot SUSHISAMBA set to open in the Capital Tower building in Singapore in July. Asia is a key market for SHG, promising an exciting pipeline of extraordinary lifestyle hospitality experiences in Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Philipp Knuepfer, COO of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, SHG, expressed his excitement about the new role, stating, “I’m excited to be joining a talented team in a company with such an impressive global footprint and an enviable reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry. My focus is to support the growth of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, further cementing its reputation as one of the leading luxury hotel providers committed to delivering pioneering hotel concepts and extraordinary lifestyle hospitality experiences around the world. I can’t wait to continue and develop the incredible work that SHG has been doing.”

Jaime Buxo Clos, CEO of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, SHG, welcomed Philipp on board, saying, “It’s my pleasure to have Philipp join our growing team. He is a values-driven business leader with a diverse background of experiences and an excellent track record of delivering results in the hospitality industry. Our new COO will play a fundamental role in driving the growth of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, while further elevating the Group’s presence in Asia.”

About Sunset Hospitality Group:

Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) was founded in 2011 with a vision to create unique hospitality experiences around the world, ranging from resorts and beach clubs to restaurants and nightlife venues. Since then, the group has grown to become a leading hospitality investment and management company developing new and pioneering concepts and acclaimed multinational brands. SHG has a presence in 17 countries with a proven record in delivering high-quality services at exceptional locations. SHG’s portfolio includes renowned concepts such as METT Hotels & Resorts, Azure Beach, Ammos, Drift Beach Club, AURA, SUSHISAMBA, DREAM, L’Amo Bistro del Mare, Mott 32, Black Tap, Lola Taberna Española, Goldfish, Isola, Raise Fitness & Wellness, and many more.

2023 saw the opening of Azure Beach Marbella, Isola Marbella, Bar de Lola Marbella, Mott 32 Dubai, Signor Sassi Dubai, METT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella, Yalikavak Marina Hotel Bodrum, Mood Jordan, Raise Marbella, and Santana Bali. For more information, visit Sunset Hospitality Group.

For press enquiries, please contact:

Sara Barrow at sara.barrow@sunsethospitality.com or +971529254615


Rosetta Hospitality Appoints Chef Sufeeyan Khan to Lead Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ in Goa

Rosetta Hospitality Appoints Chef Sufeeyan Khan to Lead Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ in Goa

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2025

Rosetta Hospitality has announced the appointment of Chef Sufeeyan Khan as Chef de Cuisine at Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ, the group’s signature world-cuisine beachfront dining destination at Varca Beach, Goa. Known for his creative flair and luxury hospitality experience, Chef Sufeeyan will spearhead the restaurant’s culinary journey as it reopens on September 1st after the annual monsoon closure.

Chef Sufeeyan’s career spans renowned properties like W Hotels and The Leela Goa, with his most recent role as Executive Chef at São by the Shore. His unique approach combines global culinary techniques with coastal flavours, delivering experiences that are refined, memorable, and deeply guest-centric.

At Ouzo Delmar, Chef Sufeeyan will work alongside Chef Somnath Porel, Executive Chef at Elements by Rosetta, to curate a contemporary menu highlighting coastal and barbecue-inspired creations with authentic Goan influences. From fresh local produce to flavourful grills, every dish will tell a story of tradition meeting innovation.

I am truly delighted to join the Rosetta Hospitality family”, said Chef Sufeeyan Khan. “This role allows me to blend my passion for world cuisine with Goa’s rich culinary heritage. Our menu is designed to honour timeless traditions while embracing local authenticity—every dish will be crafted with care to create an unforgettable beachfront dining experience”.

Welcoming the new appointment, Abhishek Dhar, General Manager, Elements by Rosetta, Varca, said, “With his expertise and vision, Chef Sufeeyan will play a pivotal role in establishing Ouzo Delmar as one of Goa’s most distinguished dining destinations.”

Adding to this, Chef Milan Gupta, Corporate Chef & EVP, Rosetta Hospitality, noted, “Chef Sufeeyan’s ability to balance global flavours with Goan authenticity resonates perfectly with Rosetta’s culinary vision. His leadership will set new benchmarks of excellence in Goa’s dining scene”.

With this appointment, Rosetta Hospitality reinforces its commitment to creating immersive dining experiences that celebrate sustainability, innovation, and regional authenticity. Guests at Ouzo Delmar can look forward to an elevated culinary era where beachfront dining meets world-class hospitality.


Sharath Rajan Appointed General Manager of Fortune Airport Road, Kochi

Sharath Rajan Appointed General Manager of Fortune Airport Road, Kochi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 21, 2025

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels’ Group, has announced the appointment of Sharath Rajan as the General Manager of Fortune Airport Road, Kochi. In this new role, Rajan will oversee the hotel’s operations, including guest services, team leadership, quality assurance, and overall property performance.

With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sharath Rajan has built a strong track record in driving operational excellence and delivering outstanding guest experiences. His career includes leadership positions across globally renowned hospitality brands such as Accor, Hyatt Regency, Crowne Plaza (IHG), Hilton, and Marriott, with experience spanning both India and overseas markets.

Rajan’s expertise lies in room division operations, guest experience enhancement, revenue optimisation, and hotel promotions. His dynamic and guest-focused approach is expected to bring fresh energy and innovation to Fortune Airport Road, Kochi, further strengthening the hotel’s commitment to service excellence and quality hospitality.


Gurnoor Bindra Appointed General Manager of The St. Regis Goa Resort

Gurnoor Bindra Appointed General Manager of The St. Regis Goa Resort

By Hariharan U

Published on August 20, 2025

The St. Regis Goa Resort has announced the appointment of Gurnoor Bindra as its new General Manager, effective June 30, 2025. With over 14 years of leadership experience across Asia and the Middle East, she brings a wealth of expertise to one of India’s most prestigious resorts.

Before moving to Goa, Gurnoor served as General Manager of Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel, Dubai, the largest Sheraton in the Middle East. Under her leadership, the property underwent a major transformation, launching innovative dining concepts that won industry recognition. Her work has earned her several honours, including ‘Middle East General Manager of the Year’ and a spot among the ‘30 Best GMs in the UAE.’

Her career in hospitality follows an impressive start in finance across the manufacturing and service sectors. Gurnoor holds a degree from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi, an Executive Master’s from IIM Lucknow, and has completed executive programs at Cornell University in Strategic Hospitality Management and Hotel Real Estate Investments & Asset Management. A certified Six Sigma Black Belt, she has led several high-impact projects across regions to improve guest experiences, boost productivity, and enhance operational efficiency.

Sharing her excitement, Gurnoor Bindra said, “I am truly honoured to join The St. Regis Goa Resort at such a pivotal moment. With the resort’s stunning transformation and the elevated hallmarks of the St. Regis brand, we are poised to craft an experience that is both timeless and world-class. My vision is to place this resort firmly on the global map – making it one of the most sought-after destinations Asia. I look forward to working with our exceptional team to create unforgettable moments for our guests, and to carry forward the legacy of the St. Regis with grace, excellence, and a spirit of celebration”.

Outside of work, Gurnoor is an avid traveller, a trained classical dancer, and a passionate food enthusiast, a balance that reflects her creative and dynamic leadership style.

The appointment highlights Marriott International’s continued focus on strengthening its luxury portfolio in India. With Gurnoor at the helm, The St. Regis Goa Resort is poised to build on its legacy of world-class hospitality while setting new benchmarks in the region.

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