Vaibhav Verma Appointed CEO of Udman Hotels & Resorts

Vaibhav Verma Appointed CEO of Udman Hotels & Resorts

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 12, 2024

Udman Hotels & Resorts is excited to announce the appointment of Vaibhav Verma as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Verma, with a distinguished career spanning over 28 years in the hospitality sector, brings a wealth of experience and insight that aligns perfectly with Udman’s vision for growth and excellence.

In his new role, Verma will be instrumental in driving the brand’s strategic growth, which includes an ambitious plan to expand its portfolio from 7 boutique and luxury hotels to 50 over the next five years. His extensive background in managing and leading teams, coupled with his expertise in operational excellence and business development, positions him ideally to navigate Udman through this transformative period.

Verma’s career includes notable roles with prominent brands such as Best Western, Business World Magazine, Accor Hotels, ITC Fortune Hotels, JHM Interstate Hotels, Taiping Carpets, and Jaypee Hotels. His experience includes pre-opening and operational roles in launching properties like Four Points by Sheraton in Jaipur, Pune, and Vishakhapatnam, and Khyber in Gulmarg. Most recently, he served as Chief Revenue Officer at juSTA Hotels and Resorts.

Vikaas Gutgutia, Founder and Managing Director of Ferns N Petals, expressed his enthusiasm about Verma’s appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Vaibhav to the Udman family. His extensive experience and ability to blend strategic thinking with hands-on leadership will be crucial as we embark on this exciting new chapter. I am confident that his leadership will help us remain at the forefront of innovation and growth in the hospitality industry.”

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On his appointment, Verma shared, “I am thrilled to join Udman at such a pivotal time in its journey. The opportunity to contribute to a brand that values both luxury and individuality is truly exciting. I look forward to working closely with the talented team here to further enhance our offerings, ensuring that each guest experience is as memorable and enriching as the next.”

With Verma at the helm, Udman Hotels & Resorts is poised to continue its legacy of luxury and personalized service while pursuing its ambitious expansion goals.


Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate Appoints Chef Hemant Bisht as Head Chef

Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate Appoints Chef Hemant Bisht as Head Chef

By Hariharan U

Published on June 20, 2026

Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate has announced the appointment of Chef Hemant Bisht as its new Head Chef, marking a significant step in the brand’s evolution from a specialty coffee and bean-to-bar chocolate destination into a comprehensive café, restaurant, and bar concept.

With more than 13 years of experience across luxury hospitality and premium dining establishments, Chef Hemant will lead culinary operations across Savorworks’ GK2 and Gurgaon outlets. He will also play a key role in shaping the brand’s long-term expansion strategy as it prepares to strengthen its presence across India.

Chef Hemant brings extensive experience from leading hospitality brands, including InterContinental Chennai, Indigo Hospitality, Passcode Hospitality’s SAZ, and Mesa Kitchen & Bar. His expertise spans menu development, kitchen operations, team leadership, and culinary innovation.

At Savorworks, his focus will be on enhancing the food programme while working closely with the coffee, chocolate, bakery, and beverage teams to create a cohesive dining experience. Beyond day-to-day operations, he will contribute to building scalable culinary systems, mentoring teams, and ensuring consistency across future outlets.

Commenting on the appointment, Baninder Singh, Founder of Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate, said the company has been working towards elevating its food offerings alongside its established coffee and chocolate programmes. He added that Chef Hemant’s experience in modern dining and culinary concept development makes him the ideal leader for the next phase of growth.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Chef Hemant said he looks forward to contributing to the brand’s vision of quality, creativity, and craftsmanship. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, consistency, and continuous learning in delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Founded in 2019 by coffee roaster Baninder Singh and chocolatier Paweena Withyasathien Kochar, Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate has built a strong reputation for its specialty coffee, artisanal chocolates, and immersive café experiences. The appointment of Chef Hemant reflects the brand’s commitment to further strengthening its culinary identity as it expands its footprint across India.


The Forum Hotel & Convention Expands Vikas Khazanchi’s Role as Vice President – Operations

The Forum Hotel & Convention Expands Vikas Khazanchi’s Role as Vice President – Operations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2026

The Forum Hotel & Convention and Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela have announced an expanded leadership role for Vikas Khazanchi, who has been associated with the group for the past eight years. As Vice President – Operations, he will now oversee operations across both properties, supporting the group's continued focus on operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and sustainable growth.

With more than three decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Khazanchi has held leadership positions at several well-known hospitality destinations across Gujarat. Over the years, he has built expertise in commercial strategy, revenue optimization, market development, organizational leadership, and hotel operations, helping drive strong business performance and service standards.

In his expanded role, Khazanchi will lead key strategic initiatives across The Forum Hotel & Convention and Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela. His responsibilities will include improving operational efficiency, driving revenue growth, developing talent, and further enhancing guest experiences across both properties.

Speaking on the appointment, Kalpesh Prajapati, Managing Director, The Forum Hotel & Convention, said, "Vikas has been an integral part of our journey over the years, and this expanded leadership role reflects the confidence we have in his leadership, industry understanding, and ability to drive strong performance across teams and operations. As the hospitality landscape continues to evolve, agility, service consistency, and talent development have become increasingly important. We are confident Vikas will play a key role in strengthening both properties and supporting their next phase of growth."

Commenting on his appointment, Vikas Khazanchi, Vice President – Operations, said, "Both properties have earned strong reputations for quality, service, and consistency. My focus will be on building on these strengths, refining operational processes, and ensuring teams are empowered to deliver their best every day. Guest experience is ultimately shaped by the culture behind it, and that will remain a key area of focus for me."

A Hotel Management graduate, Khazanchi also holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Hospitality from IGNOU. His leadership philosophy focuses on continuous improvement, employee development, responsible business practices, and creating long-term value for guests, team members, and stakeholders.

Together, The Forum Hotel & Convention and Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela offer a combined inventory of 387 rooms, serving business and leisure travellers as well as corporate events, conventions, weddings, and social gatherings in Ahmedabad.


Didier Jardin Appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Bali

Didier Jardin Appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Bali

By Hariharan U

Published on June 19, 2026

Didier Jardin has been appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Resorts Bali, where he will oversee the operations and strategic direction of the brand’s two celebrated properties: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay and Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan.

Bringing more than 30 years of experience with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Didier is recognised for his people-first leadership style, operational excellence, and commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences. His appointment follows a successful tenure at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, where he played a key role in enhancing the resort’s wellness offerings, family experiences, and community-driven initiatives.

In his new role, Didier will lead both Bali properties, each known for its distinctive connection to Balinese culture, spirituality, and wellbeing. While Jimbaran Bay offers a vibrant beachfront retreat, Sayan is celebrated for its serene riverside setting and immersive wellness experiences.

Commenting on his vision, Didier highlighted the importance of emotional connection in modern luxury hospitality. He noted that Bali’s unique blend of community, culture, and natural beauty provides an opportunity to create experiences that leave a lasting impact on guests while fostering an inspiring environment for employees.

Didier’s journey with Four Seasons began in 1994 at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Since then, his career has taken him across some of the world’s most sought-after destinations, including Bora Bora, Mauritius, New York, Cairo, and Kuwait. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for cultivating strong team cultures rooted in trust, empathy, and professional growth.

Originally from France’s Loire Valley, Didier has long been passionate about travel and cultural discovery. Together with his family, he now begins a new chapter in Bali, a destination he has admired for its artistry, warmth, and deep sense of community.

Under his leadership, Four Seasons Resorts Bali aims to further strengthen its position as one of Asia’s premier luxury hospitality destinations, offering immersive experiences that blend authentic Balinese traditions with contemporary luxury.

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