Hospitality Tip of the Day is excited to introduce the “Top 20 General Managers People’s Choice Awards List,” highlighting those who are not just General Managers but visionary leaders. They drive their organizations toward growth by staying ahead of trends and embracing new technologies. In a fast-changing business world, their ability to adapt and innovate ensures their companies stay competitive and thrive.
This special edition honors these outstanding General Managers whose leadership has transformed the hospitality industry. Their forward-thinking strategies have led to the success of many top hotels and resorts, enhancing guest experiences and promoting sustainability. As the industry evolves, these leaders will continue to inspire others and ensure the ongoing success of India’s vibrant hospitality sector.
Ajit Singh Gandhi, the General Manager of Hyatt Centric Dehradun, embodies the essence of hospitality with his unwavering warmth and genuine care for people. With a rich background spanning diverse roles from kitchen to sales, his journey epitomizes a passion for nurturing connections. At the heart of his leadership is a profound understanding of people’s needs, coupled with an innate ability to exceed expectations. Ajit’s approach, rooted in empathy and a commitment to making a positive impact, sets a compelling example for his team. Under his guidance, Hyatt Centric Dehradun thrives as a beacon of genuine hospitality, fostering meaningful relationships with every interaction.
Akash Singh Rathore, GM of The Aviyaan – Luxe Serenity, draws inspiration from a childhood immersed in diverse cultures, courtesy of his Army upbringing. His culinary journey began with a passion for regional cuisines, evolving into a distinguished career path. From Executive Chef to Director F&B with Hilton, and Corporate GM at IHCL (Tree of Life Hotels), he now spearheads the creation of Lucknow’s premier luxury destination. With world-class amenities, his vision for The Aviyaan reflects his commitment to excellence, blending culinary expertise with hospitality finesse to redefine opulence in the heart of Lucknow.
Amit Sangwan, GM of Novotel Ahmedabad, embodies a passion that transcends the ordinary. His leadership is marked by a unique fusion of traditional operational excellence and a corporate mindset, enabling him to navigate the hospitality landscape with finesse and innovation. Amit’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment, shaping him into a well-rounded leader. His dedication has not only elevated his career but has also significantly contributed to the success and growth of the establishments he has served.
Anoop Pandey, GM of JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, embarked on his hospitality journey with a bold choice. Diverging from conventional paths of engineering or medicine, he followed his passion for crafting unforgettable experiences. Graduating from the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, he delved into roles at The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, and Marriott International. Each step refined his expertise in guest relations, operations, and leadership. Today, at JW Marriott Mussoorie, Pandey’s unwavering commitment to excellence sets new standards in luxury hospitality. His journey exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s passion, inspiring both his team and guests alike.
Anuj Soin, GM of Radisson Hotel Sector 29 Gurugram, embodies leadership over management, fostering individual growth within his team. Rooted in Punjabi hospitality traditions, he infuses passion into every aspect of his role. An explorer by nature, Anuj encourages his team to embrace innovation and adaptability. For him, success lies in aligning profession with personal passion, resulting in remarkable growth. Committed to responsible business practices, Anuj’s team prioritizes sustainability, even empowering guests through unique initiatives like SeedPaper. Under his guidance, Radisson Hotel Sector 29 Gurugram thrives as a beacon of excellence in both hospitality and environmental stewardship.
Arjun Kaggallu, General Manager of Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences, embodies a profound passion for hospitality, rooted in a journey spanning continents and cultures. With a career shaped by a commitment to empathy, excellence, and tailored experiences, Arjun epitomizes the essence of personalized service. His belief in “BE ALL YOU ARE” encapsulates a workplace ethos that celebrates individuality and fosters collective growth. At Novotel Kolkata, Arjun leads by example, fostering a culture where authenticity thrives, and every team member is empowered to contribute their unique strengths. Through his leadership, the hotel resonates with a vibrant energy, where guests and colleagues alike feel valued and inspired.
Bhagwan Balani, GM of ITC Maratha, A Luxury Collection Hotel, channels his passion for creating wow experiences into every aspect of hospitality. Leading by example, he cultivates a positive work environment and constantly innovates to elevate guest experiences. His journey is defined by a commitment to excellence, adaptability to industry trends, and an unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional service. Bhagwan’s leadership at ITC Maratha reflects his belief that hospitality is not just a profession but a commitment to exceeding expectations and creating memorable moments for guests and colleagues alike.
Dinesh Rai, GM of Crowne Plaza Kochi, boasts over 25 years of diverse hospitality expertise with industry giants like Marriott, AccorHotels, IHG, and Taj Hotels. His extensive leadership spans luxury, convention centers, and international resorts across India and Sri Lanka. With a keen focus on operational excellence, revenue management, and finance, Dinesh orchestrates seamless experiences at Crowne Plaza Kochi. His wealth of experience ensures guests receive unparalleled service and reflects the hotel’s commitment to exceeding expectations in every aspect of hospitality.
Harkaran Singh, the General Manager of Aurika, Mumbai Skycity, epitomizes a people-centric approach in hospitality. Embracing the mantra, “You care, people thrive,” he fosters a culture of empowerment and growth, where colleagues and guests are paramount. With a vision centered on nurturing leadership and fostering a caring environment, he champions experiences that resonate as cherished memories. Harkaran’s journey reflects a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of hospitality, driven by the desire to create joy and lasting impressions. His leadership philosophy embodies empowerment, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to creating meaningful connections in the industry.
With an illustrious 22-year journey in hospitality, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar embodies excellence at Courtyard By Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal. From her early inspiration rooted in her father’s work to her formal training at IHM-Aurangabad and Taj Institute, Kadambari’s career traverses Taj Hotels to Marriott, honing expertise in sales and operations. Recognized for her leadership and adaptability, she orchestrates strategic sales initiatives and ensures impeccable daily operations. As General Manager, Kadambari fosters innovation and guest connections, setting the bar high for hospitality standards. Her journey exemplifies daring to dream and seizing growth opportunities, inspiring others with passion and resilience.
Namit Vijh, the Cluster General Manager Rajasthan & Agra, Radisson Hotel Group and General Manager Radisson Gurugram, Udyog Vihar, embodies a passion for hospitality cultivated from a young age. Driven by a desire to create unforgettable experiences and serve others, Vijh’s journey into hospitality management has been marked by dedication to excellence. With a keen focus on effective leadership and teamwork, he navigates the dynamic challenges of the industry, constantly innovating to elevate guest experiences. Vijh’s commitment to empathy, adaptability, and resilience fosters a culture of excellence, enriching not only the hotel’s atmosphere but also his personal and professional journey. In his hands, Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar becomes more than a hotel; it becomes a home away from home, where guests are welcomed with genuine care and warmth.
Pratiti Rajpal, GM of Ronil Goa, a part of JdV by Hyatt, embodies the spirit of hospitality instilled by her upbringing in a joint family in Jodhpur. Despite initially pursuing conventional education, her passion for hospitality led her to a remarkable journey. From establishing the Marketing Division at ITC WelcomHeritage to preopening ventures with Marriott Jaipur and a fulfilling tenure of 12+ years with Hyatt, Pratiti’s career is a testament to her joy in hospitality. The Hyatt family serves as her guiding force, fostering growth, agility, honesty, empathy, and humility—values she embodies daily, shaping unforgettable experiences at Ronil Goa.
Mr. Rajiv Kapoor, a seasoned hospitality professional with over 23 years of domestic and international experience across leading brands, is the esteemed General Manager of Fairmont Mumbai. With a wealth of expertise, he orchestrates the opulent and luxurious experience that defines Fairmont Mumbai. Rajiv’s leadership ensures unparalleled service and unforgettable moments for guests, cementing Fairmont Mumbai’s reputation as a premier destination. His dedication to excellence and commitment to hospitality excellence shine through in every aspect of the hotel’s operation, making him a key figure in the industry.
Saurabh Thakur, GM at Radisson Jodhpur, embodies the epitome of hospitality excellence. With a fervent passion for crafting unforgettable moments and a penchant for surpassing guest expectations, his journey epitomizes dedication and innovation. From mastering restaurant dynamics to orchestrating seamless hotel operations, Saurabh’s expertise spans the hospitality spectrum. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with strategic acumen, has garnered him industry accolades and propelled him to set new benchmarks. As a leader, Saurabh remains steadfast in fostering a culture of excellence, delivering unparalleled guest experiences, and steering sustainable growth. His relentless pursuit of hospitality brilliance continues to inspire and redefine industry standards.
Steering the helm at Shubhankar Jyoti gm Four Points by Sheraton, New Delhi Airport Highway, my journey in hospitality is a testament to crafting unforgettable experiences and fostering genuine connections. Guided by a fervent dedication to service excellence, I blend strategic leadership with a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. From orchestrating exceptional guest encounters to devising innovative revenue strategies, every decision is imbued with a passion for elevating standards. With a focus on employee well-being and environmental responsibility, I strive to create a holistic hospitality haven. Empowered by empathy and fueled by continuous learning, my goal is to make a lasting impact in the industry.
Subhankar Bose, General Manager of Kochi Marriott Hotel, embodies a dedication to excellence in hospitality. With a fervent passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Bose’s journey is rooted in the joy of guest interactions and the fulfillment of seeing his team thrive. Motivated by genuine smiles of satisfaction, he leads by example, fostering a positive work environment where every team member is committed to exceptional service and continuous improvement. For Bose, the essence of hospitality lies in ensuring that every guest departs with lasting memories and smiles of satisfaction, a principle that drives him forward in his quest for excellence.
Sumit Kumar, GM of Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa, embodies a leadership style rooted in dedication to excellence and a passion for innovation. His approach fosters collaboration, inspires others, and drives positive change within the hospitality realm. Sumit’s commitment to empowering his team, nurturing talent, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement sets him apart. He believes in the collective effort towards success, ensuring every individual feels valued and supported to realize their full potential. Sumit’s leadership creates an environment where excellence thrives, making Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa a beacon of hospitality distinction.
Utsa Majumder, GM of Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort, embodies the essence of hospitality as a conduit for meaningful connections and lasting memories. With a passion for problem-solving and a love for fostering inclusive environments, Utsa channels creativity and organizational prowess into every aspect of her role. As a leader, she prioritizes empowerment and inclusivity, ensuring every team member has the opportunity to thrive. Her journey is defined by a commitment to empathy, integrity, and the transformative potential of hospitality. Utsa’s dedication to excellence and her belief in the power of people make her a true asset to the industry, shaping unforgettable experiences for guests and colleagues alike.
Vipul Mohan’s journey from Sales & Marketing to General Manager at Radisson Resort Goa Baga has been a testament to dedication and trust. Leading from pre-opening, he appreciates the team’s confidence in his skills. Under his stewardship, the resort embraces community engagement through various social activities. Moreover, sustainability projects are a priority, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. Vipul Mohan’s leadership not only ensures exceptional guest experiences but also fosters a culture of giving back and preserving the beauty of Goa for generations to come.
Vivek Kumar, GM of Hotel Hindusthan International (HHI) Varanasi, is fueled by the endless positivity of the hospitality industry. For him, it’s not just a career but a way of life, offering a dynamic environment for personal and professional growth. Vivek finds joy in showcasing creativity and cherishes interactions with diverse cultures. Hospitality has sculpted him into a resilient professional, instilling confidence and focus. His passion emanates from within, making every guest’s experience memorable. With Vivek at the helm, HHI Varanasi epitomizes the essence of hospitality—a vibrant blend of warmth, creativity, and unwavering dedication.
Alongside the Top 20 General Managers , we are delighted to recognize 05 Judge’s Choice General Managers who have exhibited exemplary dedication and remarkable achievements in the hospitality industry.
Here is the list of 05 Judge’s Choice General Managers: – (in alphabetical order)
Krishna Kumar Bajpai, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Varanasi, embarked on his hospitality journey fueled by an unwavering commitment to exceptional service. His passion, ignited from a young age, blossomed into a career dedicated to crafting unforgettable guest experiences. Through his tenure, Bajpai witnessed the transformative power of hospitality, realizing its profound impact on individuals’ lives. With each interaction, he embraces the dynamic nature of the industry, fostering connections with guests from diverse backgrounds. Bajpai’s dedication to excellence continues to elevate DoubleTree by Hilton Varanasi, ensuring every guest leaves with cherished memories and a desire to return.
Sanjeev Kumar Singh, General Manager of Grand Continent Anjuna, Sarovar Portico Hotel, embodies the journey from aspiration to achievement. His passion for hospitality ignited during his hotel management days, driving him towards the GM role. Today, amidst the burgeoning hotel and tourism trends, Singh champions sustainability. From energy and water conservation to innovative linen recycling, he implements eco-conscious practices. Singh’s commitment extends to curbing food wastage, fostering a greener, more responsible industry. His journey reflects not just personal success, but a dedication to shaping a sustainable future for hospitality.
Sandeep Singh Pal, GM of The Golden Tusk, embodies the essence of hospitality as a way of life. With each day, he embraces learning opportunities and enriches his skill set, ensuring a luxurious experience for guests. His global perspective fosters connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Sandeep prioritizes guest satisfaction, elevates employee well-being, enhances revenue streams, and maintains the property impeccably. At The Golden Tusk, hospitality isn’t just a service—it’s a lifestyle curated by Sandeep, where every detail reflects his dedication to excellence and the art of living graciously.
Sathya Murugesan, the visionary behind GM Darza Luxury Resorts, embodies a hospitality ethos deeply rooted in Indian tradition. Raised in a culture where guests are revered as divine, Sathya imbibed the essence of “Atithi Devo Bhava” from an early age. Despite linguistic challenges, his innate warmth fostered connections transcending language barriers. Embracing hospitality as a career, Sathya’s journey epitomizes the adage that guests are paramount. At GM Darza Luxury Resorts, this ethos manifests in unparalleled service, where every guest is treated with reverence and their satisfaction is paramount. Sathya’s story underscores the universal language of hospitality, where genuine care transcends boundaries.
In the vibrant heart of Dubai’s Jumeirah district, stands a testament to hospitality excellence – the Lemon Tree Hotel. Spearheading its international debut is Vivek Vikram Singh, a visionary GM who defied norms by assuming leadership at a youthful 28. Five years since inception, Singh’s adept management has not only elevated the Lemon Tree brand but also nurtured a harmonious bond with the Emirati owner. His journey began with a chance encounter, igniting a passion for hospitality. Today, his dedication and expertise continue to redefine luxury and service standards, making Lemon Tree Hotel Jumeirah a beacon of excellence in Dubai’s bustling hospitality scene.
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My Recommendation to,
Akash Singh rathore, General Manager, The Aviyaan – Luxe Serenity
Vipul Mohan
I like Vipul Mohan as the best GM. He is very efficient, hard working , very well behaved, smart.
My recommendation to, Mr Anuj soin, General manager, Radisson sector -29 gurgaon. He is very Hard working and well behaved. Also he is very supportive and you can so many things learn from him.
Wish to recommend Gaurav Goswami (Corporate General Manager - Fenicia Hotels and Resorts)