With extensive experience across luxury and upscale hospitality, Aagman brings a strong track record of operational excellence, strategic leadership, and guest-centric innovation.

A seasoned hospitality professional, Aagman has held leadership roles with renowned brands including The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Marriott International. Over the course of his career, he has successfully led full-service and luxury hotels, managed pre-opening projects and operational turnarounds, and consistently delivered strong financial performance while enhancing guest satisfaction.

Prior to joining Conrad Bengaluru, Aagman served as General Manager at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi, where he played a key role in driving operational efficiency and strengthening the property’s market positioning. His earlier stints include leadership roles at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Trident BKC, and JW Marriott Marquis Doha, where he built deep expertise across hotel operations and rooms division management.

In his new role, Aagman will oversee overall hotel operations, focusing on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening operational efficiencies, and driving sustainable growth. He brings a collaborative and data-driven approach to leadership, with a strong emphasis on building high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability, and aligning business strategies with long-term asset value.

Commenting on his appointment, Aagman Baury said, “I am delighted to join Conrad Bengaluru and look forward to working with a talented team to further elevate the hotel’s positioning as a leading luxury destination. My focus will be on delivering consistent excellence, enhancing guest experiences, and driving growth through innovation and strong team collaboration.”

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With over 18 years of progressive experience in human resources within the hospitality industry, including more than nine years with Marriott International, Himanshu brings a strong foundation in strategic HR leadership, talent development, and associate engagement. He most recently served as Director of Human Resources at Le Méridien Gurgaon, where he led the end-to-end HR strategy while championing associate relations and driving impactful initiatives across North India.

Over the course of his career, Himanshu Bhatnagar has held key leadership roles across renowned hospitality brands including Marriott International, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), and Radisson Hotel Group, and has been instrumental in pre-openings, organizational transformation, and fostering high-performance cultures. Recognized for his contributions to HR excellence, Himanshu is the recipient of multiple prestigious accolades, including HR Leader of the Year at the Hotelier India Awards (2023) and several Marriott APEC HR Awards between 2021 and 2024, spanning talent development, team excellence, and wellness initiatives.

In his new role, Himanshu will lead the overarching people and culture strategy across both properties, aligning with Marriott International’s People First philosophy to cultivate leadership excellence, strengthen organizational capability, and deliver sustained business impact. His passion for building meaningful connections and making a difference in people’s lives has been a defining force in his journey—an approach that continues to shape his leadership philosophy.

Rahul Puri, Multi-Property General Manager, The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi and The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa, commented on the appointment: “We are delighted to welcome Himanshu to our leadership team. His extensive experience, people-first approach, and proven ability to build strong, engaged teams make him a valuable addition to both our properties. At Westin, our associates are at the heart of everything we do, and I am confident that under his leadership, we will continue to strengthen our culture, enhance associate wellbeing, and drive sustained excellence across both the hotel and the resort”

Speaking on his appointment, Himanshu Bhatnagar said: “I am delighted to be part of The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi and The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa. Both properties are known for their distinct positioning and strong people culture. I look forward to contributing to an environment where associates feel empowered, valued, and inspired to deliver their best every day.”

Outside of work, Himanshu enjoys painting and singing, reflecting a creative and balanced approach that complements his professional journey.

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With a strong foundation built across iconic and global brands, including Taj, IHG and Accor, Ayushi brings with her a wealth of experience in Sales, Marketing Strategy and Commercial Leadership. Most recently, she served as the Director of Sales and Marketing with Taj, where she played a pivotal role in blending data-led decision-making with strong marketing initiatives to position the hotels in her portfolio. Having started her career with Taj as a Sales Executive, Ayushi has paved her path for success and moved across brands in key markets, gaining wider experience and knowledge. 

Known for her ability to integrate and collaborate all revenue streams, in her new role she will lead the hotel’s commercial vision, driving revenue strategies and further build on to Hilton Jaipur’s position within the city’s luxury hospitality ecosystem. 

An alumnus of Delhi University, this move brings her closer to where she spent her early years as a student. Beyond the boardroom, Ayushi is a trained classical dancer and enjoys listening to music. A devoted family person, she believes in balancing ambition with meaningful personal moments. 

Speaking on the appointment, Rahul Bhagat, General Manager, Hilton Jaipur, said, “Jaipur is at an exciting inflection point, and it’s the perfect time to welcome a new leader like Ayushi. Her forward-thinking approach, proven commercial and marketing acumen will not only strengthen our market position but also elevate our brand presence in Jaipur’s increasingly competitive hospitality landscape.”

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In this role, Palash will lead the commercial performance of the 12 Holiday Inn Express hotels across India owned by SAMHI.

Palash has over 18 years of experience in hospitality, aviation, and IT consulting. His expertise in sales strategies, revenue maximisation, business development, and multi-market operations will be invaluable in his role. His entire work history has been dedicated to enhancing commercial performance, improving market positions, and providing customer-centric solutions.

An alumnus of Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Chandigarh, Palash Swarup started his career in Food and Beverage, later moving to sales and marketing. He has acquired considerable knowledge in all principal segments of the hospitality industry, including corporate, leisure, MICE, embassies, airlines, and events.

Prior to this role, Palash Swaroop held several senior leadership positions in globally recognised hospitality companies and brands. His most recent role was Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing at Hyatt Hotels, where he was responsible for directing commercial operations in a multi-property environment. His career progression also includes various key positions with Hilton Hotels, Taj Hotels, and Sagax, where he acquired comprehensive knowledge of various markets and business environments.

Commenting on his appointment, Palash Swarup said, “I am delighted to take on this new role and look forward to working closely with the team to further strengthen Holiday Inn Express’s position in the market. With a strong focus on data-led strategies, collaboration, and excellence execution, my aim is to drive sustainable growth while delivering consistent value.”

With this appointment, Holiday Inn Express aims to further strengthen its commercial capabilities and continue delivering consistent value to guests across its growing footprint in India.

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In this role, she will lead marketing strategy, brand communications, digital initiatives, and public relations across the portfolio. Trina brings over 13 years of experience in hospitality marketing, brand management, and communications, with a strong track record of driving integrated marketing strategies and strengthening brand visibility across luxury hospitality brands.

Prior to joining Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, Trina Mukherjee served as Director of Marketing & Communications at OZEN Mansion Kolkata at Atmosphere Core, where she played a key role in the hotel’s pre-opening marketing strategy and brand positioning. She also held the position of Director of Marketing at Conrad Bengaluru, leading marketing campaigns, partnerships, and brand initiatives to strengthen the hotel’s market presence. She has also been recognised within the industry, including being featured in Hotelier Web’s Power 25 Marketing & PR Talents (2021) and receiving the Best National PR Person of the Year at the IHA BW Hotelier Awards (2019).

Trina holds a Master of Communication Studies from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, along with an undergraduate degree from Loreto College, Calcutta University. Earlier in her career, she held several roles with Marriott International, including Cluster Senior Marketing Manager, overseeing JW Marriott Kolkata, Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, Aloft Cessna Business Park Kolkata, and Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad. She began her professional career with Accenture Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, where she gained early experience in corporate communications before transitioning into the hospitality sector.

Speaking on her appointment, Trina Mukherjee, Multi Property Director of Marketing, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said, “I am excited to take on this role and work closely with the teams at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield, Marriott Executive Apartments Bengaluru UB City, and The Artiste Kochi, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Each of these properties represents a distinct brand identity and guest experience, and I look forward to building marketing strategies that celebrate their individuality while strengthening the overall brand presence. Our focus will be on creating meaningful guest connections, driving digital growth, and developing integrated marketing initiatives that support long-term brand growth across the properties.”

Commenting on the appointment, Elton Hurtis, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, said, “We are pleased to welcome Trina Mukherjee to the leadership team at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center. Her extensive experience in hospitality marketing, combined with her strong multi-property perspective, will be instrumental in strengthening Sheraton’s brand presence while also driving impactful marketing strategies across the broader portfolio, including Marriott Executive Apartments Bengaluru UB City and The Artiste Kochi, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.”

In her new role, Trina will focus on strengthening brand positioning, driving digital growth initiatives, and building integrated marketing campaigns to support the continued growth of the portfolio.

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In her role, Samata will oversee all hotel operations, shape the guest experience from the ground up, and drive the property’s growth strategy in its critical opening phase and beyond.

A seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of experience, Samata brings a deep understanding of hotel operations, guest engagement, and people-led leadership. Her career spans diverse verticals within the industry, with a consistent focus on operational excellence and building high-performing teams.

Samata began her hospitality journey with IHCL Taj Hotels, where she spent nearly a decade as executive housekeeper. During this period, she led multiple pre-opening projects and managed large-scale renovation initiatives, establishing a strong foundation in operational precision and execution experience that positions her well to lead a newly launched property. She subsequently moved into Learning & Development, where she played a pivotal role in strengthening talent capabilities and organisational culture.

Her career progression led her to senior leadership roles as operations manager and director of rooms, in which she served as second-in-command overseeing end-to-end hotel operations. Most recently, she served as Executive Assistant Manager – Rooms at JW Marriott Bengaluru Golfshire, where she contributed to enhancing luxury guest experiences and driving operational excellence.

Speaking on her appointment, Samata Danday Chand said, “Tirupati is a destination that holds profound meaning for millions of people. As a team, we feel a deep sense of responsibility to match that significance with an experience that is seamless, warm, and truly memorable. Our goal is to ensure that every guest, whether a pilgrim seeking solace, a family on a cherished trip, or a corporate traveller on the move, enjoys a stay that is comfortable, effortless, and exceptional in every sense. That is the standard we are setting for ourselves from day one.”

Known for her people-first leadership philosophy, Samata brings a balanced and mindful approach to her role. A passionate traveller, long-distance driving enthusiast, and dedicated yoga practitioner, she embodies a leadership style that blends discipline with empathy.

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With over seventeen years in the kitchen, Chef Balachandar’s journey is rooted in hands-on expertise across diverse cuisines and high-energy culinary environments. Known for his intuitive approach to flavours and strong operational command, he has consistently led teams to deliver dining experiences that balance creativity with precision.

Over the course of his career, Chef Balachandar has built a strong foundation across leading hospitality brands, including Conrad Bengaluru, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Dubai, The Leela Palace Chennai, and InterContinental Festival City Dubai. His journey reflects a deep understanding of diverse culinary styles, coupled with the ability to lead dynamic kitchen teams and deliver consistently refined dining experiences.

“Chef Balachandar brings with him profound insight of both the art and discipline of the kitchen,” said Gaurav Sinha, Hotel Manager, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru. “His ability to blend global influences with a strong sense of flavour and technique will further enrich our culinary offerings.”

On his appointment, Chef Balachandar K said, “Kitchens have always been about energy, collaboration, and constant evolution. At JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, I look forward to building on that spirit, creating menus that are vibrant, ingredient-driven, and rooted in a strong sense of place, while delivering experiences that guests can truly connect with.”

In his new role, Chef Balachandar will lead the hotel’s culinary operations, working closely with the team to shape menus, refine techniques, and continue elevating the dining experiences across the hotel’s restaurants and banquet offerings.

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Jyotika brigns a commercially driven and relationship-focused leader to the team as the hotel prepares for its debut in Mumbai — marking Morgans Originals’ first hotel in India.

Joining during the hotel’s pre-opening phase, Jyotika will lead Roswyn’s sales strategy and strategic partnerships, working closely with corporate clients, travel advisors, and event planners to establish the hotel’s presence within Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

With over a decade of experience across leading global hospitality brands, including Four Seasons, Hyatt, and Marriott, Jyotika brings deep expertise in luxury sales, business development, and client relationship management. Most recently at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, she led business development and catering sales, consistently exceeding revenue targets while strengthening relationships across the city’s corporate and social event networks. Earlier in her career, she held roles across Hyatt Regency Gurugram, Sheraton Grand Pune and Hyatt Centric Goa, gaining extensive experience across both sales and events leadership.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Jyotika Sahani said, “Being part of Roswyn’s pre-opening journey is incredibly energising. It’s a rare opportunity to bring a luxury lifestyle brand to life and shape its first impression in India. What excites me most is the chance to introduce fresh, thoughtful ideas that create high-value, personalised experiences across every touchpoint — the kind that not only impress in the moment but truly stay with you.”

Jyotika Sahani approaches hospitality with a strong belief in storytelling and human connection.

She added, “Hospitality, for me, is about creating stories guests can’t stop sharing — moments built with warmth, genuine care, and a sense of delight. As a leader, I focus on bringing energy, heart, and purpose to the team so we can craft experiences that aren’t just remembered, but truly cherished.”

“Launching a brand like Roswyn in a city as dynamic as Mumbai requires commercial clarity and strong relationships. Jyotika brings both. She understands how to build demand, create meaningful partnerships, and position a hotel in a way that resonates with the market. As we prepare to introduce Morgans Originals to India, her role will be central to shaping Roswyn’s commercial momentum from day one,” said Rajiv Kapoor, General Manager, Fairmont Mumbai and Roswyn, A Morgans Originals Hotel.

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With 15 years of diverse HR leadership experience across hospitality and corporate sectors, Mandeep brings expertise in people strategy, HR advisory, and organisational governance.

She has held pivotal roles with renowned organisations, including Marriott International, MRG Group, HSBC, and Accor, where she led talent management initiatives, strengthened leadership development, optimized people processes, and built high-performing teams.

In her most recent role as Director of People & Culture at Fairmont Udaipur Palace, Mandeep played a key role in the successful launch of the property. She led the end-to-end people strategy, scaling the workforce, establishing HR frameworks from the ground up, and driving a high-performance culture anchored in engagement and operational excellence.

Recognised for her strategic leadership, Mandeep is focused on enhancing organisational effectiveness, cultivating high-performance cultures, and strengthening stakeholder engagement to elevate the employee experience. With proven expertise in transformation, she is adept at leading large teams and aligning people strategies seamlessly with business objectives.

Commenting on the appointment, Hardip Marwah, Cluster General Manager, said, “We are excited to welcome Mandeep to the Hyatt family. Her expertise, energy and fresh perspectives will be invaluable as we continue to nurture our culture, empower our teams and deliver exceptional experiences for our guests.”

In her new role, Ms. Sodhi will be leading HR initiatives across the hotel, partnering closely with all teams to drive engagement, talent growth, and operational excellence. 

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With over 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Rakib brings a sharp commercial mindset and a proven track record in driving revenue growth, managing corporate and MICE portfolios, and building high-performing teams.

Prior to this role, he served as Cluster Associate Director of Sales at Andaz Delhi, where he played an instrumental role in deepening client relationships and delivering sustained business growth. His professional journey also includes key tenures at Hyatt Regency Gurgaon and Hyatt Regency Chennai, equipping him with strong cross-market experience and a nuanced understanding of diverse customer segments.

In his new role, Rakib will lead the hotel’s sales strategy, focusing on driving revenue across segments while further enhancing its positioning in a competitive hospitality landscape. Known for his strategic thinking and people-first leadership style, he has consistently delivered impactful results while fostering collaborative, motivated teams.

Speaking on his new role and what drives him, Rakib Hussain said, “The opportunity to create meaningful guest experiences and inspire teams to push boundaries every day is what keeps me going.”

Outside of work, he enjoys travelling, exploring new culinary experiences, and spending time with his family.

His appointment underscores the Hyatt’s commitment to building a strong, forward-looking leadership team as it continues to grow its presence in the region.

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