The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center Introduces New Course on Leadership Excellence

The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center Introduces New Course on Leadership Excellence

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 4, 2024

The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center has launched a new course, Leading Employee Excellence, which redefines how leaders inspire excellence within their teams. Amanda Joiner, Global Vice President of the consulting firm, announced that the course focuses on behaviors that set the example for leadership, driving a culture of excellence. This initiative is part of the Center’s broader mission to leverage The Ritz-Carlton’s Gold Standards to help companies enhance both customer and employee experiences, thereby gaining a competitive edge.

The Leading Employee Excellence course is an immersive experience led by Ritz-Carlton facilitators. It incorporates firsthand experiences, dynamic videos, and discussions among attendees from various industries. The course highlights ten key behaviors that help leaders model brand guardianship, demonstrate accountability, and empower employees to make decisions confidently.

“This learning experience goes beyond theory, providing actionable takeaways, including a six-month roadmap tailored to participants’ individual goals,” said Joiner. She emphasized that the course content is especially valuable for leaders responsible for shaping strategies and overseeing career development across different sectors.

The course will be presented for the first time on October 22-23, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas. It is a full-day, onsite event, with participants having the option to attend on either day. The agenda includes meals, breaks, and a networking reception. Attendance is limited to maintain an intimate learning environment, and the course fee is $2,495 per person. Details on registration and accommodations can be found on the Leading Employee Excellence website.

The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center is known for its global consulting services, helping organizations transform their business by creating outstanding employee and customer experiences. As an extension of The Ritz-Carlton brand, the Center uses proven methodologies to drive sustainable business success through a culture of excellence.


Clarks Exotica Honoured for Service & Operations at Exhibition Excellence Awards 2025

Clarks Exotica Honoured for Service & Operations at Exhibition Excellence Awards 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 18, 2025

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa has been named 1st Runner-Up in the ‘Excellence in Services & Operations’ category at the Exhibition Excellence Awards (EEA) 2025, held at the CICDO Exhibition Center in Mumbai. This prestigious recognition reinforces the resort’s status as a leading hospitality and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination in India.

Clarks Exotica’s strength lies in its precision-driven and guest-centric approach, catering to four key guest profiles: MICE clientele, destination weddings, FITs (Free Independent Travellers), and airline crew—each experiencing tailored hospitality designed for their unique needs.

  • MICE guests enjoy bespoke arrivals with company-branded gifts, themed room décor, and signature desserts.

  • Wedding guests receive thoughtful in-room surprises including festive sweets and handwritten notes.

  • FITs are treated with wellness hampers, dietary-specific meals, and occasion-based surprises.

  • Airline crew benefit from streamlined check-ins, restful stays, and time-sensitive efficiency.

In FY 2024–25, Clarks Exotica undertook strategic operational and infrastructure upgrades, resulting in improved guest satisfaction across key platforms:

  • Booking.com rating rose from 7.4 to 8.4

  • Tripadvisor ranking improved to #22 of 1,136 hotels in Bengaluru

  • Won the Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award with a score of 8.1

These results were powered by a committed, cross-functional team led by Varun Sharma, General Manager - Operations. His leadership played a key role in aligning departments towards a singular focus on service excellence.

Noteworthy team contributions include:

  • Rakesh Kumar (Rooms Division): Streamlined and personalised guest journeys

  • Chef Suresh (Culinary): Introduced inventive and diverse dining options

  • Satyabrata Samal (Housekeeping): Rolled out eco-friendly practices and rapid response SOPs

  • Senthil Kumar (F&B): Elevated banquet services with training and delightful add-ons

  • Kuldeep Singh (Security): Enhanced safety with seamless guest confidence measures

  • Raghavendra Srinivasa (IT): Delivered robust digital infrastructure and event tech support

  • Chetan (Engineering): Ensured operational uptime through sustainable engineering

Balaji M, CEO of Clarks Exotica, shared:

"This award is a true reflection of what happens when passion meets process. It’s not about doing one thing differently—it’s about doing everything thoughtfully. Every detail, from food to room service, is shaped by care and consistency. We’re proud of our team and thankful for the trust of our guests."

Located just 15 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, the resort is nestled across 70 acres of greenery, offering over 15 versatile venues for exhibitions, weddings, conferences, leisure travel, and airline layovers. As it continues redefining luxury hospitality with scale, warmth, and intent, this latest recognition marks another milestone in Clarks Exotica’s journey.


This Summer, Pick Your Own Harvest and Dine at Dusk at Seb’s Farm, RAAYA by Atmosphere

This Summer, Pick Your Own Harvest and Dine at Dusk at Seb’s Farm, RAAYA by Atmosphere

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 18, 2025

This summer, the Maldives invites you to slow down, dig deep, and dine differently. At Seb’s Farm, tucked within the heart of RAAYA by Atmosphere, guests are welcomed into a world where storytelling meets sustainability.

Inspired by Seb, an explorer who once sought solace in the tropics, the farm is a living tribute to his journey. It now offers a thoughtfully curated “Harvest-to-Plate Dinner” that begins with a morning harvest and ends with a starlit meal, featuring your hand-picked ingredients and fine wine pairings.

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The experience includes guided farm tours, family-style lunches, and menus that celebrate seasonal produce and local seafood—designed to nourish the body and connect with nature. Vegan delights like Roasted Pumpkin and Homegrown Beet Tossed shine on the menu, paired perfectly with Villa Antinori Toscana wines. Guests can customise their meals with fresh fish or meat options, and wrap up their dining journey with indulgent desserts like Kanamadhu Chocolate Fudge and Ivory Coconut Mousse.

Seb’s Farm is more than a place to eat—it’s a place to connect. A celebration of simple pleasures, sustainability, and soul. Much like RAAYA itself, it’s designed to rejuvenate the spirit through tropical ambience, mindful luxury, and unforgettable moments.


Marriott Debuts First Autograph Collection Hotel in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu

Marriott Debuts First Autograph Collection Hotel in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 17, 2025

Marriott International has launched its first Autograph Collection hotel in South Asia with the opening of The Soaltee Kathmandu. Located in the culturally rich Tahachal area of Nepal’s capital, the 285-room property marks the entry of Marriott’s 19th brand in the region, expanding its footprint across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

A landmark in Nepalese hospitality since 1966, The Soaltee has been reimagined under the Autograph Collection brand, known for offering hotels that are “Exactly Like Nothing Else.” The property celebrates Nepal’s artistic and architectural legacy, with features like hand-carved wooden jaalis, Thangka paintings, exposed brick interiors, and sweeping views of the Himalayas and Swoyambhunath Stupa.

A standout feature is “The Storyteller”, a curated space in the public areas that weaves together the hotel’s historic journey through guest stories and cultural artefacts. Each room and suite is designed with a unique narrative, showcasing the Autograph Collection’s focus on individuality and immersive local experiences.

Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International, shared,

“The debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu reflects our commitment to expanding into culturally rich leisure destinations. With its legacy and distinct character, the hotel perfectly aligns with our vision of delivering immersive, one-of-a-kind stays.”

The hotel offers an eclectic range of dining experiences:

  • Garden Terrace for global and local cuisine

  • Kakori for Awadhi delicacies

  • Bao Xuan for Chinese specialities

  • Patio for al fresco dining

  • Rodi Bar and the Sports Lounge for laid-back socializing

Guests can also enjoy a spa, outdoor pool, tennis court, and 24-hour fitness centre, making it a well-rounded urban retreat. The property boasts over 25,000 sq. ft. of banquet space, positioning it as a premium venue for weddings, MICE events, and social gatherings.

In line with Marriott’s sustainability goals, The Soaltee Kathmandu features in-house water bottling, an herb garden, and energy-efficient infrastructure to reduce its environmental impact.

General Manager Avinash Deshmukh stated,

“With a legacy of over 58 years, this iconic hotel blends Nepal’s cultural heritage with contemporary luxury. We are proud to open the first Autograph Collection in South Asia and usher in a new chapter for the brand in the region.”

With its debut, The Soaltee Kathmandu not only elevates Nepal’s luxury hospitality landscape but also strengthens Marriott’s brand presence across South Asia through a property that’s both timeless and forward-looking.

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