The Leela Palace Jaipur Welcomes New Leaders Across Key Roles

The Leela Palace Jaipur Welcomes New Leaders Across Key Roles

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 12, 2024

The Leela Palace Jaipur has fortified its leadership team with four new appointments, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to elevate the luxury hotel's offerings and operations.

Sohil Bhargava, Director of Food and Beverage

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With over nine years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sohil Bhargava has an impressive track record working with esteemed establishments like Raffles, Grand Hyatt Gurgaon, and Andaz. Most recently, he excelled as the Senior Food and Beverage Manager at The DLF Camellias, where he implemented innovative strategies and created exceptional dining experiences. A graduate of the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, Bhargava specializes in F&B operations, business strategy, and leadership.

In his new role, Bhargava will drive the culinary vision at The Leela Palace Jaipur, focusing on elevating the food and beverage experience to create unforgettable moments for guests while contributing to the hotel's overall growth and reputation.

Varun Parashar, Executive Chef

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A seasoned culinary expert, Varun Parashar brings a rich background that includes roles at Raa Atoll, Maldives; South Male Atoll, Maldives; Trident Bandra Kurla; and The Oberoi Rajvilas. With a proven ability to enhance team performance and deliver exceptional culinary standards, Parashar is a graduate of the Oberoi Center for Learning & Development and holds a bachelor's degree from IHM Lucknow.

As the Executive Chef, Parashar will lead the culinary operations at The Leela Palace Jaipur, curating exceptional menus that celebrate regional flavors while maintaining the highest culinary standards.

Sandeep Kumar Sharma, Director of Finance

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Sandeep Kumar Sharma joins with extensive experience in financial management, having held key positions at Hilton Jaipur, The Leela Palace New Delhi, and Trident properties in Chennai and Hyderabad. Sharma’s ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and his expertise in strategic planning have been hallmarks of his career.

A commerce graduate from Rajasthan University, Sharma will oversee financial strategies at The Leela Palace Jaipur, ensuring the hotel's fiscal health and operational efficiency.

Tanuj Shokeen, Director of Sales and Marketing

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With over 15 years in the hospitality industry, Tanuj Shokeen has a proven track record in driving sales performance and engaging stakeholders across various markets. Before joining The Leela Palace Jaipur, he served as the Director of Sales at Taj - Jai Mahal Palace Jaipur. Shokeen holds a PGDM in Marketing and International Business from AIMA and a bachelor's degree in commerce from Delhi University.

In his new role, Shokeen will focus on enhancing sales strategies, revenue management, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring The Leela Palace Jaipur strengthens its position as a leader in the luxury hospitality market.

These appointments mark a significant step forward for The Leela Palace Jaipur, as the new leaders bring their expertise and passion to take the property’s guest experiences and operational excellence to new heights.


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.


Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Nikhil Kher as General Manager

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Nikhil Kher as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 14, 2025

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Nikhil Kher as its new General Manager, marking a significant addition to its leadership team as the resort continues to establish itself among Rajasthan’s most distinguished luxury destinations.

With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in luxury hospitality, Kher brings deep expertise in operations, brand building, and guest experience management across several of India’s most reputed hotel brands. Known for his strategic acumen and people-first leadership, he has successfully guided teams to achieve operational excellence, elevate service standards, and deliver authentic, memorable guest experiences.

In his new role, Kher will oversee complete operations at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, driving performance across rooms, dining, wellness, and guest engagement. He will also lead the resort’s business strategy and market positioning, ensuring that every aspect of the guest journey reflects the warmth, heritage, and cultural spirit of Rajasthan. Under his leadership, the property aims to further strengthen its reputation as a destination where luxury meets storytelling.

Prior to joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, Kher held key leadership positions across leading hospitality brands, where he was instrumental in improving performance metrics, expanding market presence, and fostering a culture of service excellence. His career is marked by an unwavering focus on guest satisfaction, attention to detail, and team development.

Speaking on his appointment, Nikhil Kher said,

“It is an honour to lead Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, a property that captures the timeless beauty and spirit of Rajasthan. My vision is to blend world-class hospitality with the authenticity of the desert’s heritage, creating experiences that resonate deeply with every guest. I look forward to building on the resort’s strong foundation and guiding the team towards new milestones of success.”

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