Ajit Chandel Nominated: India’s Top 50 Hotel GMs 2026

Ajit Chandel, General Manager of Regenta Place Jhansi by Royal Orchid Hotels in Uttar Pradesh, has been nominated for India’s 50 Best General Managers 2026, recognising his leadership in hotel operations, financial performance and pre-opening execution. The nomination was announced in April 2026 as part of the ongoing evaluation process by Hospitality Career Profile.

Nomination and Current Role

The nomination acknowledges Chandel’s current role as General Manager associated with Royal Orchid Hotels, where he is involved in pre-opening operations and hotel management functions. As per available information, he has been leading operational planning and execution for upcoming hospitality projects.

The company said he is responsible for overseeing hotel operations, aligning service standards and ensuring readiness across departments during project execution phases.

Operational Responsibilities and Scope

Chandel manages budgeting, forecasting and profit and loss performance, ensuring financial targets are aligned with business plans. His role includes monitoring operational metrics, conducting performance reviews and implementing corrective actions where required.

He also leads coordination among department heads, supervises staff training initiatives and ensures compliance with brand standards, safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

Pre-Opening and Project Management Experience

Chandel has significant experience in pre-opening hotel projects, including operational setup, recruitment, and implementation of service systems. He has been involved in capital expenditure planning, project timelines and quality control processes.

He also conducts regular operational audits, oversees preventive maintenance programmes and ensures readiness of facilities prior to hotel openings.

Career Background and Industry Experience

Chandel has over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, with expertise across hotel operations, front office management, sales and guest services. Prior to his current role, he served as General Manager at Mourya Hotel, Spa & Casino in Lumbini, Nepal, from April 2025 to September 2025.

He also worked as General Manager at The Bodhi Palace Resort, Bodh Gaya, and held leadership roles at The India Benares and The Fulbari Resort & Spa, Nepal, managing multi-department hotel operations and business performance.

Early Career and Professional Development

Earlier in his career, Chandel held senior operational roles including Front Office Manager at Ramada Plaza JHV Varanasi and Assistant Front Office Manager at Le Royal Meridien Chennai. He began his career with Holiday Inn and Renaissance Goa Resort, progressing through supervisory and managerial positions.

He holds a diploma in hotel management from the Institute of Hotel Management, Gwalior, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Osmania University, the company said. The India’s 50 Best General Managers 2026 awards are currently in the nomination stage, with evaluation ongoing.