Introducing Itha Das: A Fresh Leadership Voice at Conrad Bengaluru

Conrad Bengaluru, a shining jewel in the luxury hospitality landscape of India, has recently fortified its leadership with the appointment of Itha Das as the new Director of Sales, Conference and Events. This strategic recruitment is a pivotal part of the hotel’s continued commitment to enhancing its offerings in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) sector, a growing segment that significantly contributes to both corporate and social gatherings in the bustling city of Bengaluru.

A Wealth of Experience in Hospitality Sales

Itha Das’s arrival at Conrad Bengaluru is underpinned by her extensive background in hospitality sales and event management. With years of experience, she has a proven track record in successfully managing large-scale events and cultivating strategic partnerships. Prior to her new role, Das excelled as the Associate Director of Sales at the Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway. There, she played a critical role in expanding business development initiatives and overseeing key sales efforts related to conferences and various social events.

Her expertise further flourished during her tenure as the Senior Sales Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, where she immersed herself in the complexities of the MICE landscape. This exposure equipped her with the ability to curate unforgettable experiences for clients, a skill she brings to her role at Conrad Bengaluru.

Fostering Client Relationships and Driving Business Growth

In her new capacity, Das will take the lead on all catering and MICE functions at Conrad Bengaluru. The focus of her role will be on propelling business growth, fostering strong client relationships, and crafting bespoke event experiences tailored to meet the diverse needs of both corporate and social clients. The responsibility will require her to work closely with the hotel’s sales and operations teams to refine service offerings, ensuring smooth execution of everything from high-profile conferences to intimate weddings.

Das is eager to apply her extensive skills in building long-term partnerships to elevate Conrad Bengaluru’s status as a premier venue for a multitude of events. By staying attuned to the latest industry trends, she aims to identify new opportunities for growth within the MICE segment, ensuring that the hotel continues to innovate and excel.

Exceptional Hospitality at Conrad Bengaluru

Renowned for its world-class hospitality, Conrad Bengaluru is fully committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. The addition of Itha Das is a strategic move to further enhance this reputation, particularly in the realm of high-end conferences and events. The hotel features extensive event facilities enhanced by luxurious accommodations and meticulous service, creating an optimal environment for hosting both grand corporate functions and personal celebrations.

Das expresses enthusiasm about being part of a dedicated team focused on providing unparalleled service. She recognizes the importance of attention to detail, creativity, and personalization in delivering successful events that leave lasting impressions on guests.

Invested in Comprehensive Growth Strategies

The appointment of Itha Das is indicative of Conrad Bengaluru’s forward-thinking approach to strengthening its position within an increasingly competitive MICE market. Her leadership is anticipated to play a critical role in not only driving the hotel’s growth but also reinforcing its reputation as a prime destination for both business and social events in the area.

With her wealth of experience and innovative ideas, Itha Das is well-positioned to steer Conrad Bengaluru towards achieving its ambitious goals in the hospitality sector, ensuring it remains a leading choice for event organizers and planners alike.

Weekly Roundup: Major Executive Moves in the Hotel Industry

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, executive moves are more than just staff changes; they signal shifts in strategy, innovation, and sometimes even a new direction for entire brands. Here’s a roundup of the pivotal executive shifts that have taken place over the past week in the hotel investment landscape.

Accor’s New Chief People and Culture Officer

Accor has announced the appointment of Laurent Choain as its new global chief people and culture officer, effective April 1, 2026. With an extensive career that includes roles at Forvis Mazars, Groupe Caisse d’Epargne (now BPCE), and Kempinski Hotels & Resorts, Choain is positioned to play a significant role in shaping the company’s corporate culture. He will also sit on the Premium, Midscale & Economy Executive Committee, reflecting the company’s emphasis on integrating culture within its strategic framework.

Ashford CFO Retirement and Transition

In a notable transition, Deric Eubanks, the CFO of Ashford Inc., will retire in June after a commendable 23-year career with the company and its predecessor. Eubanks will also step down from his roles within Ashford’s advised REITs, Ashford Hospitality Trust and Braemar Hotels & Resorts, effective March 31. His successor, Justin Coe, currently serving as chief accounting officer, will take on the role of principal financial officer. To ensure continuity, Eubanks will assist in a transitional capacity until June 30, after which he’ll remain available as an advisor as needed.

Capella’s New Leadership

Capella Hotel Group has welcomed Roland Fasel as its new president, effective April 6. Fasel, a veteran in the luxury hotel segment, was most recently the COO at Maybourne Hotel Group and has an impressive background that includes senior roles at Aman Resorts, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts. His extensive experience is anticipated to enhance Capella’s strategic direction and operational excellence.

Davidson Hospitality Group’s New Appointments

Davidson Hospitality Group has made significant corporate appointments with the addition of Andrew Houghton as senior vice president of Luxury Operations and Scott Harrell as vice president for Acquisitions & Business Development. Houghton, a former managing director and general manager across Davidson’s resorts, brings a wealth of operational expertise. Harrell, who previously held a similar role at PM Hotel Group, is expected to boost Davidson’s business development initiatives.

Leadership Changes at Frasers Property

Frasers Property has announced the appointment of Tony Lombardo as COO, taking on this newly created role starting October 1. Lombardo’s previous experience includes serving as the CEO of Lendlease Asia, and his expertise is expected to support Frasers’ growth and operational efficiency in the competitive market.

New Managing Director for IHG in Latin America

Michael Hoe Knudsen is the new managing director for Mexico, Latin America & the Caribbean (MLAC) at IHG Hotels & Resorts, stepping in after Jorge Apaez’s retirement. With three decades in global hospitality, Knudsen’s tenure at IHG began in 1996, and his roles in countries like Brazil, Venezuela, and Argentina will provide valuable insights as he leads the region’s strategic initiatives.

UK & Ireland Leadership for IHG

Furthermore, IHG has appointed Neetu Mistry as managing director for its U.K. and Ireland (UK&I) estate. Responsible for overseeing over 400 operational and pipeline hotels, Mistry’s experience as an owner representative on regional councils aligns perfectly with her role in driving growth and performance in this crucial market.

New US Operations VP at Langham Hospitality Group

Langham Hospitality Group has announced Michele Grosso as the regional vice president of Operations for the U.S., effective February 1, 2026. In addition to his new role, Grosso will continue managing The Langham, Boston. His history with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts positions him well to elevate the guest experience across Langham’s U.S. portfolio.

New President at Mullen Hospitality Management

Javier Coll has taken on the role of president at Mullen Hospitality Management, leading the company’s third-party management strategy. With over 30 years in international hospitality and investment, including senior positions at Hyatt, Coll’s expertise in branded resort development across the Caribbean and Latin America is poised to enhance Mullen’s market presence.

Executive Team Expansion at Pan Pacific

In another development, Pan Pacific Hotels Group has expanded its executive team with the appointments of Celine Du as chief commercial and marketing officer and Kate Loh as head of development. Du’s extensive experience in luxury hotel brands will drive PPHG’s commercial strategy, while Loh, who previously served as director of development, will continue to play a vital role in the company’s growth.

Valor Hospitality Partners’ New Global CFO

Finally, Paul Nisbett has been promoted to the role of global CFO at Atlanta-based Valor Hospitality Partners. Nisbett, who previously served as CFO for the EMEA region, will now oversee financial operations globally, leveraging his 30 years of industry experience to further Valor’s objectives.

These transitions are not just changes in addresses; they represent a strategic realignment for the companies involved, aiming towards enhanced operational efficiency, improved guest experiences, and robust growth trajectories in the global hospitality sector.

Bali: A Safe Haven for Travelers with Enhanced Disaster Preparedness

A Green Light for Safety

Bali is frequently hailed as one of the safest vacation destinations globally. According to the Bali Sun Traveler Safety Index, visitors consistently report positive experiences concerning their safety on the island. The index remains in the green, emphasizing the island’s commendable safety track record. This is a crucial point for tourists seeking peace of mind in their travel plans.

Certification for a Safer Stay

As of this week, an impressive 100 of Bali’s leading hotels hold Disaster Preparedness Certificates. This initiative aims to bolster tourists’ confidence, assuring them that they are in safe hands during their stay. Hotel operators and local leaders are pushing for even broader participation in this certification program to enhance safety standards across the island.

Currently, there are 115 certified hotels in Bali, each located in prime resort areas. However, with a total of 498 star-rated hotels and resorts registered, there’s still significant work ahead to ensure optimal safety for all visitors.

Challenges of Disaster Preparedness

Disaster readiness remains a central focus for Bali’s hospitality sector, particularly given the island’s location in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which exposes it to natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Climate change further complicates matters, leading to extreme weather patterns that can result in both floods and droughts.

Advocacy for Regulation

Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati, often called Cok Ace, Chairperson of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Bali, expressed concern over the relatively low number of hotels with disaster preparedness certificates. He highlights that the lack of regulations mandating certification is a significant barrier. As it stands, the certification is advisory, without penalties for non-compliance.

Collaborative Efforts

Cok Ace noted that the PHRI Bali collaborates with the Bali Provincial Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to encourage more hotels to achieve disaster preparedness certification. This certification encompasses broader safety measures, including evacuation protocols and systems for assisting guests during emergencies.

Vulnerability to Natural Disasters

Cok Ace pointed out specific areas of increased vulnerability, particularly around coastal resorts like Serangan, Sanur, Kuta, Tanjung Benoa, and northern regions along the Buleleng Regency coast. The threat of earthquakes triggers significant concern, particularly for hotels located along the southern coastline, which face higher risks of tsunamis.

Understanding Guest Preferences

The safety features of accommodations are becoming crucial in attracting international tourists. Cok Ace shared that hotels equipped with effective evacuation plans and disaster response procedures tend to draw more guests. As awareness of safety issues increases, tourists are becoming more selective about where they stay, favoring establishments that prioritize their well-being.

The Need for Mandatory Standards

At the forefront of Cok Ace’s advocacy is the call for regulations that make disaster preparedness certifications a standard requirement across all accommodations. He indicated that the introduction of mandatory certifications, enforced through regional regulations, would significantly enhance safety measures in the hospitality sector.

“The most important thing is preparedness. Hotels in vulnerable locations must be ready for emergencies,” he concluded.

A Traveler’s Guide to Safety

Tourists planning their Bali getaway should secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers natural disasters. It is essential to read policy documents thoroughly and understand the claims process in emergencies.

Additionally, communication is vital. Guests are encouraged to liaise with hotel management or villa operators to familiarize themselves with safety protocols and understand what steps to take during an emergency. Such awareness can be invaluable, providing additional layers of security for travelers.

In an ever-evolving travel landscape, understanding safety measures and preparations can ensure a more enjoyable and secure vacation experience in Bali.