Best Hotel Management Institute Award at the Hybiz Food Awards 2025

Pankaj Sampath

Area Director, Hyderabad and General Manager Taj Krishna

Pankaj Sampath is a highly accomplished professional in the hospitality industry, known for his exceptional leadership and operational expertise. As an Area Director for Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) in Hyderabad and the General Manager of Taj Krishna, he brings a wealth of experience and value to the IHMH Executive Programs.

With an illustrious career spanning over 30 years, Pankaj's journey in IHCL began in 1993 at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. He has held various operational and leadership roles, starting from hotel operations trainee to managing restaurants, banquets, and eventually becoming the Executive Assistant Manager (EAM) of the flagship Taj Mahal Palace's largest food and beverage operations. Such diverse experiences have honed his ability to oversee multiple facets of hotel management.

Pankaj's international experience includes being the Area Director for Taj Asia Limited and Taj Safaris Limited. He also served as the General Manager of Taj Colombo, where he oversaw operations across Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Malaysia, along with managing four Taj Safari Lodges in India. This exposure to diverse markets and unique challenges contributes significantly to his insights in the executive programs.

Having graduated from IHM Ahmedabad and holding a diploma in business management from NMIMS, Pankaj combines academic knowledge with practical experience to offer a well-rounded perspective to the executive programs' participants.

His contributions to the hospitality industry extend beyond his role at IHCL. Pankaj is actively involved in various industry associations, including serving as the President of the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Telangana (HRATS) and being on the board of the Hotel and Convention Bureau of Telangana (HCVB). He is also nominated by CII, Telangana, as the Co-Chairman for the tourism and culture task force for 2023-24, highlighting his recognition and influence within the industry.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Pankaj is an ardent sports lover, with cricket being his favourite sport. He also has a keen interest in reading about and investing in capital markets, showcasing his intellectual curiosity and business acumen. Pankaj's love for travel and exploration aligns perfectly with the hospitality industry, and his strong belief in the Indian tradition of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' underscores his commitment to exceptional guest experiences.

In summary, Pankaj Sampath's extensive experience in hotel management, leadership roles, international exposure, and active involvement in industry associations make him an invaluable asset to the IHMH Executive Programs. His insights, expertise, and commitment to excellence in hospitality contribute significantly to the professional development and success of the program's participants.

Shrikanth Wakharkar

Area Vice President, Hyatt Hotels (South & Central) and General Manager, Park Hyatt Hyderabad

Mr Shrikanth Wakharkar is a seasoned hospitality professional with a remarkable 30-year career in the industry, making him a valuable addition to the board of advisors for IHMH Executive Programs. Throughout his illustrious journey, he has been instrumental in leading and overseeing flagship and iconic hotel operations, focusing on strategic and tactical growth strategies to strengthen the positions of the hotels he served.

With diverse management positions held in India, Shrikanth brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the executive programs. His journey with Hyatt Regency Delhi is a testament to his commitment to excellence, as he previously served as the Assistant Director of Food and Beverages in 1999 before returning as General Manager. This continuity allows him to leverage his understanding of the hotel's history and culture to create memorable guest experiences and set new benchmarks for the hotel.

His leadership roles at renowned hotels such as Taj Intercontinental, Starwood, and Marriott Hotels showcase his adaptability and expertise across various hospitality brands. He has honed his skills in restaurant pre-openings, hotel upgradation/renovation projects, sales generation, and sustaining significant bottom-line results.

Having graduated from IHM Bhubaneshwar, Mr Shrikanth's academic foundation is further strengthened by his professional development programs at Cornell University. This combination of academic learning and practical experience equips him to offer valuable insights and expertise to the executive programs' participants.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr Shrikanth has a passion for exploration and experiencing different cuisines through his travels. His active participation in marathons reflects his dedication to maintaining a healthy and fit lifestyle, which he believes aids in unwinding and staying focused in his professional endeavours.

In summary, Mr Shrikanth Wakharkar's extensive experience and leadership in the hospitality industry, coupled with his dedication to excellence, make him a valuable asset to the IHMH Executive Programs. His insights into hotel operations, strategic growth, and guest experience management can significantly contribute to the success and growth of the program's participants in the dynamic world of hospitality.

Ravi Ramachandra

General Manager, Radisson Hotel Andheri Mumbai MIDC

Ravi Ramachandra is a seasoned hotelier with over 35 years of extensive experience in the Hospitality Industry. His expertise spans various domains, including Food and Drinks, Sales & Marketing, and Administrative Divisions. Throughout his career, Ravi has worked with renowned national brands like Jaypee Hotels and IHCKL/Taj Groups of Hotels, as well as global brands such as Hyatt International Hotels and Radisson Hotel Group.

Currently serving as the General Manager of Radisson Mumbai Andheri MIDC since 2018, Ravi oversees the operations of an upscale hotel offering 109 contemporary and well-appointed rooms, including two penthouse suites. This hotel is strategically located in the heart of India's business district, making it a prime destination for both business and leisure travellers.

As a member of the advisory board for IHMH Executive Programs, Ravi Ramachandra brings forth a wealth of knowledge and industry insights. His diverse background and experience in various hotel segments and brands provide valuable perspectives to the executive programs' participants. Some of the key value adds he brings to the table include:

Industry Expertise: Wih decades of hands-on experience in the hospitality sector, Ravi possesses a deep understanding of the industry's nuances, trends, and challenges.

Operational Excellence: As the General Manager of an upscale hotel, Ravi's expertise in hotel operations, finance management, and guest experience can guide executives in improving their own organizations' performance.

Brand Management: Having worked with both national and global hotel brands, Ravi understands the importance of brand positioning and management. His insights can help executives enhance their own brand strategies.

Sales and Marketing Strategies: Ravi's background in sales and marketing equips him to share successful strategies for revenue optimization and attracting customers.

Leadership and Team Development: Throughout his career, Ravi has honed his leadership skills and nurtured high-performing teams. His insights into effective leadership and team development can benefit program participants in their own roles.

Crisis Management: Ravi's experience in navigating through crises and handling unforeseen situations can provide valuable lessons and preparedness to the program's participants.

In summary, Ravi Ramachandra's extensive experience and expertise in the hospitality industry make him a valuable asset to the IHMH Executive Programs. His insights and guidance can significantly contribute to the professional growth and success of the program's participants, preparing them to excel in the competitive landscape of the hospitality sector.

Rajendra Mishra

Managing Director, Agile Apt Solutions

Rajendra Mishra is an esteemed business leader with a wealth of experience in transformational leadership and large-scale business management. With 34 years of professional expertise, he has held significant customer-facing roles for 16 years, climbing up the ladder to become the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer (CSMO) at KEC Ltd, an RPG Group Company. The remaining part of his career has been dedicated to leading businesses, primarily as Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Vedanta CK Birla Group.

One of Rajendra's key strengths lies in his ability to navigate complex business landscapes and create substantial value by leveraging market insights, optimizing operations, financial strategies, and integrating technology into the chosen business strategies. His proficiency in implementing well-rounded approaches to business growth makes him a valuable addition to the board of advisors for IHMH Executive Programs.

As an Engineering Graduate from NITK Surathkal, Rajendra brings a strong technical foundation to his leadership roles, enabling him to approach business challenges with an analytical and systematic mindset. Moreover, his commitment to continuous learning is evident through his completion of several Executive Education Programs (EEPs) and Management Development Programs (MDPs) at esteemed institutions such as Cornell, Wharton, ISB, and XLRI. These professional development initiatives have further enriched his understanding of diverse business perspectives and best practices.

Rajendra's extensive experience in leading customer-facing roles and diverse businesses equips him to provide invaluable insights into customer-centric strategies and effective business management techniques to the participants of the IHMH Executive Programs.

In summary, Rajendra Mishra's transformational business leadership experience, diverse background in leading customer-facing roles and complex businesses, and continuous pursuit of knowledge through executive education make him a valuable asset to the IHMH Executive Programs' advisory board. His expertise in driving value through strategic approaches encompassing market dynamics, operational excellence, financial acumen, and technology integration can significantly contribute to the professional growth and success of the program's participants.