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


The LaLiT New Delhi Appoints Vishal Sharma as General Manager

The LaLiT New Delhi Appoints Vishal Sharma as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kanna

Published on February 24, 2026

The LaLiT New Delhi has announced the appointment of Vishal Sharma as its new General Manager. Bringing over 18 years of experience across sales, marketing, and hotel operations, Vishal adds a strong commercial edge and leadership depth to the iconic luxury hotel in New Delhi.

Vishal started his hospitality journey with Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces and went on to take up senior sales and marketing roles at leading properties such as The Imperial New Delhi, The Claridges New Delhi, and Radisson MBD Noida. His association with the brand is long-standing, having earlier served as Head of Sales at The LaLiT New Delhi, followed by his role as National Head of Sales (Business Hotels) at The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

Most recently, Vishal was Director of Sales and Marketing at IHG Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini. He was also part of the IHG EMEAA General Manager Development Programme 2025, further strengthening his leadership credentials.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Vivek Shukla, Chief Executive Officer, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome Vishal back to The LaLiT New Delhi in this leadership role. His deep commercial expertise, strong understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape, and long-standing association with the brand position him exceptionally well to lead the property into its next phase of growth. We are confident that under his leadership, the hotel will continue to deliver elevated guest experiences and strengthen its market presence.”

In his new role, Vishal will be responsible for overseeing overall hotel operations, shaping commercial strategy, and leading guest engagement initiatives, further strengthening the hotel’s standing in the luxury hospitality segment.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Vishal Sharma said, “It is truly an honour to take on this responsibility at The LaLiT New Delhi, a brand widely recognised for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusive hospitality. I look forward to fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and empowered, while ensuring our guests experience not only exceptional service, but a space that celebrates individuality, respect, and belonging.”


Espire Hospitality Strengthens Sales Team with Two New Directors

Espire Hospitality Strengthens Sales Team with Two New Directors

By Hariharan U

Published on February 23, 2026

Espire Hospitality Limited has strengthened its commercial team with the appointment of Mr. Daksh Shandilya and Ms. Ashwini Alpesh Taware as Director of Sales. This step reflects the company’s clear focus on expanding its reach and sharpening its sales strategy for ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts.

Daksh Shandilya brings over nine years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing. Over the years, he has worked with leading brands such as The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, Lemon Tree Hotels, Treehouse Hotels & Resorts, and Old-World Hospitality. His experience covers key account management, business development, and market expansion across competitive regions. He has handled segments including PCO, DMC, and MICE, helping brands grow through structured planning and strong long-term partnerships.

Ashwini Alpesh Taware joins with more than a decade of experience across corporate sales, travel trade, events, and MICE. She has been associated with brands like Lemon Tree Hotels, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Nashik, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, and The Orchid Hotel Mumbai. Having worked at both property-level and national sales offices, she understands client expectations and market trends closely.

Commenting on the appointments, Mr. Akhil Arora, CEO & MD, Espire Hospitality Limited, said, "Our focus has always been on building strong leadership teams that can take our brands forward in a competitive market. Daksh and Ashwini come with solid industry experience and a clear understanding of how today's hospitality business works. Their addition strengthens our focus to grow our market footprint, deepen our engagement with key partners, and drive consistent performance across ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts."

In their new roles, Daksh Shandilya and Ashwini Alpesh Taware will focus on improving sales performance and supporting Espire Hospitality Limited’s long-term growth plans across its brands


The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at Tiga

The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at Tiga

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 22, 2026

The Leela Hyderabad has announced the appointment of Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at its signature dining destination, Tiga, further reinforcing the hotel’s focus on culinary excellence and leadership.

With close to three decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Rana brings with him a strong professional foundation shaped by his tenure across several renowned hotel brands. His career includes stints at Park Hyatt Hotels, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Grand InterContinental, Le Royal Meridien, and The St. Regis. Over the years, his work has been defined by a disciplined approach to global cuisines, with a sharp focus on authenticity, precision, and guest satisfaction.

Speaking on his appointment, Rana said, “cooking, for me, is a continuous journey of learning and refinement. i believe in respecting ingredients, techniques, and authentic recipes while evolving with guest expectations. at the leela hyderabad, i look forward to creating dining experiences that balance global influences with flavours that resonate with the local palate.”

At Tiga, Rana aims to curate menus that blend international culinary trends with regional sensibilities. A key highlight of his vision is a strong emphasis on Sichuan-style cuisine, known for its bold spices, layered aromas, and balanced heat, while ensuring the offerings remain approachable for local diners.

Welcoming him to the team, Rajesh Gopalakrishnan, General Manager of The Leela Hyderabad, said, “chef rana’s extensive experience across some of the world’s most respected hospitality brands, combined with his commitment to consistency and quality, makes him a valuable addition to our culinary team. his leadership will play a key role in further elevating the dining experience at the leela hyderabad.”

With this appointment, The Leela Hyderabad continues to strengthen its culinary portfolio, positioning Tiga as a destination for refined global flavours delivered with consistency and care.

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