Up Norway Expands Leadership Team Amid Growing Demand for Luxury Travel

Up Norway Expands Leadership Team Amid Growing Demand for Luxury Travel

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 16, 2024

Up Norway, a sustainable luxury travel company, has appointed Karoline Hoff as its new Managing Director. Founder Torunn Tronsvang, who has led the company since its inception in 2016, will now take on the role of Chief Experience Officer (CXO). This leadership change marks a significant step in Up Norway's continued commitment to providing luxury travel experiences rooted in Norwegian culture and sustainability.

Tronsvang expressed her excitement about the transition, emphasizing the company's mission to become a leading expert in value-driven luxury travel. "Karoline's strategic expertise guiding our growth allows me to focus on innovating exceptional travel experiences and inspiring positive change through our journeys," said Tronsvang.

Hoff has worked in various industries, including at Møller Mobility Group, WiMP Music (now Tidal), Orkla ASA, and McKinsey & Company. Hoff holds both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Economics and Business Administration from The Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration (NHH). With her background in project management, strategic planning, and team leadership, Hoff is expected to play a key role in Up Norway's future.

Erik Jakobsen, a board director at Up Norway, praised Hoff’s appointment, noting her leadership will help meet the growing demand for value-driven travel experiences. "Hoff's leadership will be instrumental in refining our strategic direction and meeting the increasing demand for value-driven travel experiences that reflect Norwegian authenticity, respect for nature, and community engagement," he stated.

Hoff, in turn, expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, "I'm thrilled to join Up Norway and lead the team in creating unforgettable experiences for our travelers. I'm incredibly impressed by what the team has accomplished so far, and I'm excited to be part of this journey to make Norway the world's most attractive travel destination."

Tronsvang’s move to CXO reflects her dedication to Up Norway’s mission of offering authentic, sustainable travel experiences. Since founding the company, she has sought to counter the superficial travel experiences often associated with Norway. Under her leadership, Up Norway has become a top sustainable travel curator, offering bespoke itineraries that highlight Norwegian culture while prioritizing environmental and social responsibility.

Tronsvang will now focus on her passion for destination and experience development, working closely with local partners to continue shaping Up Norway's unique offerings. "I am excited about my new role as Chief Experience Officer," Tronsvang said. "This transition is part of our vision for the company's future. Collaborating with Karoline will be vital as we advance our mission to make Norway the world's most attractive travel destination."

Up Norway’s leadership changes come at a time of significant growth. The company has already added five new team members in 2024, reflecting increasing demand for its eco-friendly, luxury travel experiences. Up Norway’s expansion strategy, guided by B Corp principles, aims to offer high-quality travel experiences without sacrificing sustainability.

For more details on Up Norway, visit their website at upnorway.com.


Novotel Jodhpur Appoints Rajinder Singh as Food & Beverage Manager

Novotel Jodhpur Appoints Rajinder Singh as Food & Beverage Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 20, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur has announced the appointment of Rajinder Singh as its new Food & Beverage Manager, strengthening its leadership team in the culinary and dining segment.

With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Rajinder brings solid expertise in handling end-to-end food and beverage operations across well-known hotel brands. He has worked closely on enhancing guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and leading teams to maintain consistent service standards. His experience also includes involvement in pre-opening projects, revenue strategies, and developing new dining concepts.

In his new role, Rajinder will oversee all food and beverage operations at Novotel Jodhpur, including restaurants, banquets, and in-room dining. His focus will be on building a stronger culinary identity for the hotel, introducing fresh and innovative offerings, and ensuring a high level of guest satisfaction, in line with the brand’s standards.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, Novotel Jodhpur, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rajinder to our leadership team. His rich experience and passion for hospitality will play a key role in enhancing our food and beverage offerings. We are confident that his vision and leadership will further elevate the dining experience for our guests.”

Speaking on his new role, Rajinder Singh said, “I am excited to join Novotel Jodhpur and be part of a brand that stands for quality and innovation. I look forward to creating memorable dining experiences and contributing to the continued success of the hotel.”


Park Hyatt Chennai Appoints Srinath Ravindranath as Director of Sales

Park Hyatt Chennai Appoints Srinath Ravindranath as Director of Sales

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 20, 2026

Park Hyatt Chennai has announced the appointment of Srinath Ravindranath as its Director of Sales, adding to its leadership team as the hotel continues to strengthen its position among the city’s leading luxury destinations.

In his new role, Srinath will head the Sales function, working closely with internal teams to drive strategic growth, build stronger client relationships, and expand the hotel’s presence across key market segments.

He brings over 13 years of experience in sales and marketing within the hospitality industry, including a long association of 12 years with IHCL. Most recently, he served as Director of Sales at Vivanta Bengaluru, Whitefield, where he led key commercial initiatives and played an important role in strengthening the hotel’s positioning in a competitive market.

Srinath’s career also includes leadership roles across IHCL’s multi-property portfolio, along with an earlier stint at Hyatt Hyderabad. These experiences have helped shape his approach, combining strategy, relationship-building, and execution to deliver consistent results.

An alumnus of the Oriental School of Hotel Management, Wayanad, he is known for his focus on long-term client engagement, steady growth, and mentoring teams to perform at their best. Outside of work, he enjoys motorcycles and hiking, reflecting his energetic and driven personality.

His collaborative and results-focused approach aligns well with Park Hyatt Chennai’s commitment to offering refined, intuitive, and personalised guest experiences.

Located in the heart of the city, Park Hyatt Chennai blends contemporary luxury with understated elegance. Overlooking Guindy National Park and situated close to the airport and major business districts, the hotel offers a peaceful escape for travellers. It features 200 well-designed guestrooms and suites, along with dining experiences such as Park Brasserie, The Flying Elephant Bar and Mr. Ong, The Flavours of Singapore. The property also includes a luxury spa, rooftop infinity pool, and modern event spaces, making it a preferred choice for both business and leisure guests.


ITC Maurya Appoints Gaurav Lavania as Executive Chef

ITC Maurya Appoints Gaurav Lavania as Executive Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

ITC Maurya has announced the appointment of Gaurav Lavania as its new Executive Chef. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he will lead the hotel’s culinary operations, overseeing its portfolio of award-winning restaurants along with large-scale banquet services.

Chef Lavania is known for his ability to create refined flavours using simple ingredients, presenting dishes with a minimalist aesthetic while preserving authenticity. His culinary philosophy reflects a strong focus on sustainable sourcing and a deep respect for India’s rich culinary traditions, while also embracing modern techniques.

Before this role, he was part of the leadership team at ITC Narmada. Over the years, he has contributed to several acclaimed restaurants within the ITC Hotels portfolio, including Yi Jing, Dakshin, The Pavilion, Fabelle, and Peshawri, earning recognition for his culinary excellence and innovation.

Commenting on the appointment, Amaan R Kidwai, Area Manager Luxury Hotels (North) and General Manager, ITC Maurya, said, “We are delighted to welcome Executive Chef Gaurav Lavania to lead the culinary team at ITC Maurya. His deep expertise, commitment to Responsible Luxury and passion for authentic flavours align perfectly with our vision of delivering exceptional culinary experiences. We look forward to the distinctive culinary vision he brings, further elevating ITC Maurya’s celebrated dining legacy.”

With this appointment, ITC Maurya aims to further strengthen its position as one of the country’s leading luxury dining destinations, continuing its legacy of delivering exceptional culinary experiences.

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