Ms. Thakur brings a wealth of experience from her roles at Taj The Trees in Mumbai, Taj Lands End, and The Oberoi Hotel in Mumbai. She is set to deliver new benchmarks in service excellence with her proactive problem-solving skills, multitasking abilities, and prioritization of business objectives. She holds an MBA in Hospitality Management from Amity University, Mumbai.
Mr.Sharad Puri, Senior Vice President and General Manager at The Leela Palace Jaipur, stated, “We are delighted to welcome Swati Thakur, to The Leela Palace Jaipur family. Her wealth of expertise and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality experiences. Her addition strengthens our leadership team and underscores our continued pursuit of excellence in every aspect of our operations. Together, we look forward to elevating the guest experience and setting new benchmarks for luxury hospitality in Jaipur.”
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Jim Corbett, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Nivedan Kukreti as its new General Manager. Mr. Kukreti, with an impressive 21 years of experience, is known for his visionary approach and strategic solutions. His ability in managing high - performance teams and dedication towards result-oriented operations is truly remarkable.
With a diploma in hotel management from the prestigious IHM Lucknow, Mr. Kukreti began his hospitality journey in the year 2003. His strong academic background and unwavering commitment towards his work laid the foundation for his successful career in various leadership roles. Over the years he has demonstrated exceptional expertise in project management, marketing and team building, playing an important role in several acclaimed establishments.
Mr. Kukreti’s vast professional expertise includes leadership roles at renowned hotels such as Shangri-La, The Lalit, Radisson Blu, and Taj Hotels. During his tenure he managed key operations, enhanced guest satisfaction, and ensured profitability through innovative strategies.
In his new role as general manager, he aims to establish Taj Corbett Resort & Spa as a premier destination for luxury, nature, and wellness tourism, blending exceptional hospitality with local experiences. He plans to create unique offerings that celebrate the region’s biodiversity, cultural heritage, and adventurous spirit, while fostering collaborations with local artisans and conservationists.
"I am honored to lead Taj Corbett Resort & Spa and look forward to combining world-class hospitality with curated experiences that highlight Corbett’s beauty, culture, and wildlife," said Mr. Nivedan Kukreti. "Together with my team, we will set new benchmarks for excellence while fostering sustainability and enriching the guest experience."
Building on IHCL’s over a century old legacy, Paathya is our industry leading Economic, social and governance framework of responsible tourism, Mr. Kukreti is committed to expanding sustainability initiatives, enhancing eco-friendly infrastructure, and supporting wildlife conservation and the local community.
Under Mr. Kukreti’s leadership, guests can expect exceptional service, immersive experiences, and a strong commitment to sustainability, ensuring every stay is a remarkable journey into the heart of Corbett’s wilderness.
Six Senses Con Dao is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Memo Hernandez, a celebrated culinary talent from Costa Rica, as the resort’s new Executive Chef. With a career spanning six continents and a reputation for creating inspired dining experiences, Chef Hernandez brings his passion for sustainability, innovation, and authenticity to the tranquil shores of Con Dao.
Chef Memo Hernandez began his culinary journey at the esteemed Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje in Costa Rica, where he cultivated a deep respect for the craftsmanship and artistry of cooking. His global career has taken him to the turquoise waters of the Maldives, the dynamic kitchens of China and Dubai, and the lush landscapes of Spain, Fiji, and Tanzania. Along the way, he has developed an ability to connect local ingredients with global techniques, creating dishes that are as meaningful as they are delicious.
During his tenure as Executive Chef at The Nautilus Maldives, Chef Hernandez played an integral role in earning the property the prestigious Relais & Châteaux certification, solidifying his reputation for excellence in culinary leadership. His work at The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, The Residence Zanzibar, and other luxury properties reflects a commitment to creating culinary moments that honor both the destination and its heritage.
At Six Senses Con Dao, Chef Hernandez’s culinary philosophy aligns seamlessly with the resort’s core values of sustainability, authenticity, and connection to nature. His approach mirrors the resort’s dedication to offering dining experiences that reflect the vibrant culture of Vietnam while honoring its unique natural environment.
Chef Hernandez’s vision includes elevating the resort’s farm-to-table philosophy by collaborating with local farmers, fishermen, and artisans to craft menus that highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect dishes that showcase Vietnamese culinary traditions infused with creative global influences, presented in a way that enhances the resort’s tranquil and natural surroundings.
In addition to his culinary expertise, Chef Hernandez will work to enhance the wellness-inspired dining experiences at the resort, complementing Six Senses Con Dao’s renowned Spa & Wellness Village. His thoughtfully curated menus will focus on balance, nourishment, and sustainability, offering guests options that align with their personal wellness journeys.
“Six Senses Con Dao is a place where nature and sustainability are celebrated, and I am thrilled to join a team that shares my commitment to these values,” said Chef Memo Hernandez. “This stunning island inspires me to craft dining experiences that are not only memorable but deeply connected to the beauty and culture of Con Dao. Together with my team, I look forward to creating moments that delight our guests and reflect the essence of this incredible destination.”
General Manager Christoph Holzapfel shared his enthusiasm for Chef Hernandez’s appointment: “Chef Memo’s global experience, innovative approach, and commitment to sustainability make him an ideal addition to our team. His ability to fuse indigenous flavor profiles and ingredients with contemporary culinary trends will elevate our dining offerings, allowing guests to experience a fresh take on authentic flavors of Con Dao in every bite. I am personally addicted to his take on homemade Pho-infused almond butter.”
Chef Hernandez’s appointment further reinforces Six Senses Con Dao’s commitment to delivering meaningful and immersive guest experiences. From dining under the stars with fresh, local seafood to enjoying a wellness-focused menu designed to nourish both body and soul, the resort’s culinary offerings continue to reflect its dedication to sustainability, authenticity, and excellence.
The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond property for thirteen consecutive years, proudly announces the appointment of Carlo Javakhia as General Manager. With over 25 years of hospitality experience across Europe and the Middle East, Javakhia brings a track record of operational excellence, award-winning leadership, and a deep commitment to luxury service to the exclusive enclave of Bal Harbour.
In his new role, Javakhia will oversee all aspects of the resort’s operations, ensuring that St. Regis Bal Harbour continues to set the standard for excellence in service, guest experience, and innovation. His strategic leadership will further elevate the resort’s distinguished hospitality, driving advancements across dining, accommodations, and guest engagement. With a proven track record in optimizing financial performance, strengthening brand positioning, and curating world-class hospitality experiences, he is well-positioned to enhance the resort’s legacy as one of Miami’s most sought-after destinations.
Javakhia’s distinguished career spans several international luxury brands, including The Ritz-Carlton, Le Méridien, Hyatt, and M Management. Beginning his journey as a Front Desk Agent, he quickly rose through the ranks, holding multiple Food & Beverage leadership roles before advancing to Director of Operations and ultimately General Manager. In his most recent role as General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, Javakhia led the property to unprecedented success, securing multiple prestigious accolades, including Condé Nast Traveler’s #1 Hotel in the Middle East (2023, 2024) and #2 Hotel Globally (2024), as well as Travel + Leisure’s #1 City Hotel in the Middle East & North Africa (2024) and #3 City Hotel in the World. Under his leadership, the hotel achieved the highest market share in its history and set record-breaking benchmarks in employee engagement (98%) and guest satisfaction (89.3%), positioning it among the top-performing properties in The Ritz-Carlton’s global portfolio.
“I am honored to join The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, an iconic destination that embodies timeless elegance and impeccable service,” said Carlo Javakhia, General Manager. “This resort has long been a symbol of luxury, and I look forward to working alongside this exceptional team to continue delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
A seasoned leader with expertise in turnarounds, brand development, and luxury service, Javakhia holds an MBA from the University of Manchester, a Master’s in International Hospitality & Tourism Leadership from the University of Wales, and certifications in Food Service Management from Cornell University. His passion for fine dining and beverage excellence is further underscored by his WSET Level 3 Award in Wines from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust.
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Bal Harbour Shops, The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an exclusive oceanfront sanctuary just north of Miami Beach. The resort features 213 elegantly appointed guest rooms, each offering breathtaking ocean views, along with signature dining experiences, a Forbes Five-Star spa, and direct access to pristine white-sand beaches. Following a $65 million enhancement in 2020, it continues to redefine luxury in South Florida.
For reservations and more information, call 866-716-8116 or visit www.stregisbalharbour.com.