IHCL AND LES ROCHES LAUNCH A PROGRAM-“THE NEXT GENERAL MANAGER OF INDIA”

by Shrutee K/DNS

Mumbai, July 31, 2019: The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), South Asia’s largest hospitality company and Swiss institution Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, ranked number 3 of the world’s top institutions for hospitality management by the QS World University Rankings 2019; are joining forces to address the prevalent skills gap and prepare the next generation of leaders to support the growth of the travel and tourism industry in India.

“With its natural beauty and cultural attractions, rich diversity and a unique tradition of hospitality, India is already a popular travel destination. We look back on a long-standing presence in India and are thrilled to associate Les Roches’ Swiss model of education with IHCL, developing the necessary skills and promoting the career opportunities in the hospitality industry,” commented Dr Christine Demen Meier, Managing Director of Les Roches.

A dedicated initiative titled “The next General Manager of India” aimed at young hospitality professionals, will award one full scholarship to study at Les Roches’ MBA in Global Hospitality Management program in Switzerland, followed by a fast track development program at an IHCL hotel. Additionally, Les Roches will offer 50% scholarships to five runners up. Shortlisted applicants who meet the program’s admission requirements will submit a business case and compete at a final selection event in Mumbai.

“IHCL as custodian of Indian hospitality has played a responsible part in nurturing talent in the industry. India has a huge untapped talent pool which is waiting to be unleashed. With forecasts of India being an over $ 5 trillion economy and the robust growth of travel and tourism, there is tremendous opportunity  for hospitality professionals. The partnership with Les Roches is one such significant step in creating global leaders of tomorrow,” said Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL. 

With an innovative curriculum that integrates business strategy, management theory and real-world problem solving, Les Roches’ MBA in Global Hospitality Management provides students with the skills and insights necessary for senior managerial positions. The program consists of two semesters of study, culminating in the submission of a dissertation and includes two experiential study trips to Chicago and Shanghai, adding global experience and industry exposure. 

About Les Roches Global Hospitality Education: Founded in 1954, Les Roches Global Hospitality Education is a private institution based on the Swiss model of experiential learning, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the fields of hospitality, tourism and event management. Les Roches prepares entrepreneurial and innovative graduates across a global network of campuses in Switzerland, Spain and China. Part of Sommet Education, Les Roches is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Les Roches is ranked number three of the world’s top institutions for hospitality and leisure management and number three worldwide for employer reputation (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2019).

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL): The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj – the hallmark of iconic hospitality, SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels, Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels and Ginger which is revolutionizing the lean luxe segment.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL operates 181 hotels including 30 under development globally across 4 continents, 12 countries and in over 80 locations.  

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is South Asia’s largest Indian hospitality company by market capitalization. It is primarily listed on the BSE and NSE.