TTT NEWS NETWORK
NEW DELHI | 11 FEBRUARY 2026
Holiday Inn Express is pleased to announce the onboarding of Gaurav Pandey as Portfolio Director, Learning & Quality, and Tahir Siddiqui as Portfolio F&B Manager. These appointments represent a significant step towards strengthening the brand’s commitment to smart, reliable and guest-centered hospitality across its expanding portfolio in India.
Gaurav joins the portfolio of Holiday Inn Express with more than 23 years of experience across hospitality operations, learning and development, academic leadership and pre-opening strategy. Having worked with respected organisations including the Indian School of Hospitality, Conrad Bengaluru, Jaypee Greens, Sarovar Hotels to name a few, he brings deep expertise in service excellence and capability-building. In his new role, he will lead learning, quality and brand-standard alignment, with a focus on developing empowered teams that uphold the Holiday Inn Express promise of efficient and welcoming service.
Commenting on his appointment, Gaurav Pandey said, “I am delighted to take on this role at the portfolio of Holiday Inn Express. My priority will be to enhance our learning frameworks and quality standards so we can continue to scale with clarity, consistency and purpose. Look forward to contributing to the brand’s long-term vision and supporting our teams as we continue to strengthen and elevate our operational excellence.”
Tahir brings over 13 years of specialised experience in food and beverage operations, leading in various operational roles across Crowne Plaza, Hyatt and Rainbow Hospital. His strong background in high-volume operations, service optimisation, cost efficiency and team development positions him well to elevate the food and beverage offering across the Holiday Inn Express portfolio. In this role, he will focus on strengthening consistency, operational delivery and the overall dining experience for guests across all properties.
Speaking about his new role, Tahir Siddiqui added, “It is a meaningful step to join the portfolio of Holiday Inn Express and lead the food and beverage function across the portfolio. My focus will be on enhancing operational consistency, driving quality and creating seamless dining experiences that truly reflect the brand’s warm, efficient and guest-first approach. I look forward to contributing to a service culture where both colleagues and guests feel a strong sense of belonging.”
The appointments of Gaurav and Tahir reinforce the brand’s commitment to building strong operational capabilities and nurturing talent in line with IHG’s Room to Belong ethos. Their arrival marks an important milestone as Holiday Inn Express continues to enhance service delivery and uphold its promise of smart, simple and comfortable stays for today’s travelers.
About Holiday Inn Express:
Holiday Inn Express is IHG’s largest and fastest-growing brand, removing barriers to travel. The brand champions simple, smart travel and was created in 1991 to challenge convention in the travel industry. The brand caters to smart, savvy travellers who are on the move and two steps ahead who need a hotel to serve as a no-fuss basecamp where they can rest, relax and recharge before making their next connection. Holiday Inn Express is committed to delivering more where it matters most through a consistent experience, thoughtful design and value-rich essentials.
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