Holiday Inn Mumbai announces two key appointments

Holiday Inn Mumbai announced the appointment of Eshita Desai as the new Marketing and Communication Manager and Shaikh Ataullah Mohammed Akhtar as the new Chief Engineer.

With a rich background in Marketing, PR, branding and Communications, Desai is set to enhance the hotel's visibility and strengthen its brand presence. She joins Holiday Inn Mumbai with extensive experience from her recent role as Manager – Marketing and PR at The Leela Mumbai. In this position, she was instrumental in conceptualising and executing marketing strategies, promoting food and beverage outlets, digital marketing and managing media relations.

With an extensive career spanning over 25 years, including two decades in the hospitality sector, Akhtar brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this pivotal role. In his new position, he will oversee all engineering operations at Holiday Inn Mumbai, ensuring the highest standards of maintenance, safety, and efficiency. His appointment aligns with the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional service and maintaining a world-class facility for its guests.

In her extensive career, she has held roles at The LaLiT Group of Hotels & Resorts, where she was responsible for managing marketing and communications for multiple properties. Before that, Desai served as the Assistant Manager – PR and Marketing at The Orchid Mumbai. Her foundational experience with companies like Synergy Public Relations, FineWinesNMore and Network 18 Media & Investments Ltd as a role of Senior Marketing and PR Executive has equipped her with a robust understanding of media management, marketing strategies, PR and Communications.

Akhtar's background includes a successful tenure as the Assistant General Manager - Technical Operations at M/S SILA Facility Company, where he managed facilities for Oberoi Eternia and Windsor Grande Residences, etc. Prior to this role, he served as the Director of Engineering at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, where he led Operation and major CAPEX projects and directed comprehensive renovations. His experience extends to prestigious hotels such as Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa and Sofitel Mumbai BKC.

“We are delighted to welcome Eshita Desai to our team,” stated Subhrajit Bardhan, General Manager of Holiday Inn Mumbai. “Her extensive experience and innovative approach to marketing and communications will play a crucial role in advancing our brand and engaging with our audience in new and dynamic ways.”

Desai’s role will involve spearheading marketing & communication initiatives for Holiday Inn Mumbai overseeing digital, creative design and promotions for the hotel. Eshita’s appointment is a strategic move to bolster Holiday Inn Mumbai’s marketing efforts and to ensure continued growth and success in an increasingly competitive market.

“Shaikh Ataullah Mohammed Akhtar's vast experience and proven track record in engineering and facilities management make him an excellent addition to our team,” added Bardhan, General Manager of Holiday Inn Mumbai. “We are confident that his leadership and technical skills will significantly contribute to our commitment to providing top-notch service and maintaining our hotel to the highest standards.”