Zubin Saxena is the new senior vice president and country head for Hilton India. Saxena joins Hilton from Radisson Hotel Group, where he worked for more than eight years, most recently as the managing director/area senior vice president for South Asia. He is scheduled to assume his new responsibilities in January, Hilton said in a statement.
Saxena has a 24-year career in hospitality, including a 4-year tenure at IHG as director of development for South Asia, Hilton said. He held senior advisory positions at Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels in India and HVS in New York. In his new role, he will oversee Hilton’s 25 operational hotels in India and lead the company’s expansion in South Asia with 20 properties in the development pipeline.
He takes over the position from Navjit Ahluwalia, who leaves Hilton after six years.
“India’s vast potential and the current positive momentum make us enthusiastic about Zubin joining the Hilton family,” said Alan Watts, Hilton’s president for the Asia Pacific. “His energy, expertise, and leadership are crucial as we accelerate our growth in the Indian subcontinent. “We appreciate Navjit for his years of dedication in establishing our presence and culture in India.”
“I look forward to hitting the ground running at Hilton in January, getting to know the team and working for this iconic brand in this fast-developing region, which holds so much promise for the company,” Saxena said. “Hilton is at a very pivotal moment in India, with its portfolio of market leading brands and ambitious growth plans. I am excited by the size and scope of the role and look forward to leading and delivering on our ambitious goals in this incredibly dynamic market.”
Hilton aims for 75 trading and pipeline hotels in India. This involves expanding the presence of its existing brands, including Hilton, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hampton by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Hilton Garden Inn. The company also intends to introduce new brands, such as the upcoming Waldorf Astoria Jaipur, set to open in 2027.
Hilton recently announced the launch of Hilton Cares, offering $500,000 in scholarships and financial aid for team members and community individuals pursuing careers in hospitality. Program applications will open in early 2024.
