Sudima builds on sustainability team
Hind Management, the parent company of Sudima Hotels, has appointed Kanika Jhunjhnuwala to the role of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). Jhunjhnuwala has led delivery of the group’s sustainable strategies and governance since 2019 in her role as Executive Director – Sustainability and Environment.
Jhunjhnuwala has a background in physics and environmental engineering and has undertaken environmental economic academic research. She recently launched The Hotel Industry Sustainability Group, in which hotels work collaboratively to create a hotel-specific emissions benchmark with the goal of reducing emissions in the long run.
“For me this title is a continuation, and it really signals the group’s forward trajectory,” she said.
“We have shown others in the sector what is possible, and our goal is to lead the way in regenerative hospitality and leave the world in a better position that when we started.
“We are mindful that meaningful change demands action at a sector level. I’m calling on my peers to work in unison. My new remit includes increased advocacy for change at a sector level, nationally and internationally.”
In June, Sammy Barker joined the team in the role of Sustainability Specialist.
Barker recently completed a Master of Global Studies at the University of Auckland, with a dissertation on sustainable urban development and urban planning. His project experience ranges from river watershed analysis and farm to store life cycle analysis.
“Sustainability and environmental science is the area I’m most passionate about, especially in the corporate sphere because that’s where I think someone in my role can make a difference,” Barker said.
“I’m really excited about this challenge and everything that comes with it.”
Hind Management’s Chief People Officer, Phillipa Gimmillaro, said “sustainability underpins Sudima Hotels’ business model”.
“These appointments reflect this as our ESG framework and strategy build their positive impact,” Gimmillaro said.
“We are delighted to appoint Kanika to the CSO role and warmly welcome Sammy to the Hind Management and Sudima Hotels family.”
Radisson announces SEAP leadership
Radisson Hotel Group recently announced Tim Cordon’s appointment as Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa and Southeast, and has extended a number of leadership positions to cover the SEAP region.
Rob Collier, Director Future Openings MEA, will have expanded responsibilities to include supporting openings in the SEAP region. Caroline Thissen, Senior Area Director of Sales and Revenue MEA will have extended responsibilities to support the Sales organisation in SEAP; while Stephanie Aboujaoude, Senior Area Director of Marketing and Communications MEA and Mediterranean, will have extended responsibilities to support SEAP.
Saadiyah Hendricks, Area Director of PR & Social Media, MEA and Mediterranean, will provide supplementary support to the SEAP markets; Diana Al Jaseem, Area Brand and Content Marketing Manager MEA, will also take responsibility for SEAP hotels; and Cameron Speedie, Regional Financial Controller, Middle East, East Africa and Nigeria, has been promoted to Senior Director, Finance and Control, SEAP.
Harpreet Singh Chhatwal, Vice President, People and Culture, MEA, will also be extending his responsibilities to SEAP and South Asia Regions.
“Being appointed as Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East, Africa, and South East Asia is a tremendous honour,” said Cordon.
“I am excited to work with our newly promoted leadership team to drive innovation and growth in these dynamic regions where we currently operate 30 hotels and have and have a fast-growing portfolio.
“With our solid foundation in MEA and the huge potential in SEAP, I am confident in our ability to achieve significant milestones and strengthen our market presence.”
Asxia HTL appoints Senior Consultant
Asset management firm Axsia HTL has appointed Sarah Taylor as Senior Consultant, effective 8 July, 2024.
Based in Sydney, Taylor, who brings more than 20 years’ experience in the hotel and tourism industry, is responsible for the company’s business development, advisory and feasibility work.
Taylor’s experience in hotel operations and development spans a number of brands including Sheraton, Hyatt and Seibu Prince Hotels. Her experience spans critical areas such as revenue management, sales and distribution, events and finance.
“Sarah’s sharp analytical skills and wealth of experience in operations, project management and hotel development are precisely what we need to drive growth across our offerings,” said Axsia HTL Managing Director, David Simpson.
“Her ability to transform challenges into strategic solutions will be instrumental to achieve our goals to enhance client value, drive innovation in hotel management, and expand our market presence.
“Her impressive education, combined with her industry experience, positions her as an ideal leader for Axsia HTL’s growth ambitions.”