Manish Gautam: A Hospitality Visionary Recognized for Excellence
The Indian hospitality industry thrives on innovation, exceptional guest service, and operational excellence. One such leader making a significant impact is Manish Gautam, General Manager of Sereni A Boutique Hotel, Daman, whose commitment to guest experience and business growth has earned him a nomination for India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025.
With over 12 years of experience across luxury hotels, boutique resorts, and international hospitality brands, Manish Gautam has showcased strong leadership, revenue management, and customer service expertise. His experience with renowned brands such as Marriott, Lalit, Renaissance Dubai, and JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (World’s Tallest Hotel) has helped him develop a global perspective on hospitality excellence.
This nomination highlights his strategic vision, operational expertise, and ability to elevate boutique hospitality in India.
Early Life and Educational Background
Manish Gautam hails from New Delhi, India, where he pursued a strong foundation in hotel management and hospitality administration.
His educational qualifications include:
✔ B.Sc. in Hotel Management & Hospitality Administration – Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Hotel Management Catering & Nutrition, Chandigarh.
✔ FOSTAC Level 2 Certified – Ensuring excellence in food safety and hygiene.
✔ Brand Standard Audit – 98% Compliance Score – Certified by top international hospitality brands.
✔ A+ Hygiene Audit by Dubai Municipality – Recognition for maintaining the highest hygiene standards.
✔ Certified PIC (Person in Charge of Hygiene) by Dubai Municipality – A prestigious international certification.
✔ WSET Level A1 Certified – Expert knowledge in wines and spirits.
✔ French A1 Certified – Multilingual proficiency to enhance guest relations.
His solid academic background combined with international exposure has played a crucial role in his success in luxury hospitality management.
A Remarkable Career in Hospitality Management
Manish Gautam’s hospitality journey spans some of the most prestigious hotels and resorts in India and the Middle East. His expertise includes pre-opening experience, restaurant management, revenue optimization, and guest experience enhancement.
Key Career Milestones
General Manager – Sereni A Boutique Hotel, Daman (April 2024 – Present)
Currently serving as the General Manager at Sereni A Boutique Hotel, Daman, Manish is focused on elevating the property’s brand value, optimizing operations, and enhancing the guest experience.
🏆 Key Achievements:
✔ Developing the brand identity of Sereni, Daman’s first boutique hotel.
✔ Recruiting and training top-tier staff, ensuring high service standards.
✔ Implementing revenue strategies, cost control, and financial planning.
✔ Overseeing marketing and partnerships, positioning Sereni as a leading boutique hotel in the region.
Restaurant Manager – Elements by Rosetta, Varca, Goa (Nov 2023 – Mar 2024)
✔ Pre-opening leadership – Set up the restaurant and In-Room Dining services.
✔ Designed customized menus for the Bar and Restaurant, increasing F&B revenue.
✔ Managed daily restaurant operations, guest satisfaction, and team supervision.
Restaurant Manager – The Lalit Golf and Spa Resort, Goa (Dec 2022 – Apr 2023)
✔ Led operations for two luxury dining outlets, ensuring five-star service.
✔ Spearheaded private beach dining experiences, increasing resort revenue.
Assistant Restaurant Manager – Gold Beach Resort, Daman (June 2021 – May 2022)
✔ Managed multiple specialty restaurants, leading team training and marketing campaigns.
✔ Boosted F&B revenue through strategic menu planning and guest engagement.
Executive Food & Beverage – Fairfield by Marriott, Bangalore (Nov 2019 – June 2021)
✔ Led operations at the coffee shop, bar, and lounge, focusing on brand standards and service excellence.
Master Beverage & Food – Renaissance Downtown, Dubai (Oct 2017 – May 2019)
✔ Managed In-Room Dining & Minibar services for Dubai’s luxury clientele.
✔ Implemented cost-effective inventory and ordering systems.
Guest Service Associate – JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai (Oct 2014 – Oct 2017)
✔ Worked in the world’s tallest hotel, handling VIP guest services and minibar operations.
Pre-Opening Team Member – JW Marriott New Delhi & JW Chandigarh
✔ Played a crucial role in setting up operations, training teams, and implementing global hospitality standards.
Sereni A Boutique Hotel, Daman – Redefining Boutique Luxury
Under Manish Gautam’s leadership, Sereni A Boutique Hotel, Daman, is set to become a premier boutique property, offering:
✔ Personalized guest experiences – Focused on luxury, wellness, and premium hospitality.
✔ Curated dining and beverage experiences – Showcasing seasonal, locally inspired menus.
✔ Strategic brand positioning – Enhancing Daman’s luxury travel and hospitality scene.
His expertise in boutique hospitality, F&B innovation, and guest engagement is helping Sereni establish itself as a leader in India’s boutique hotel industry.
India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025: A Well-Deserved Nomination
The India’s 50 Best General Managers Award 2025 honors hospitality professionals who redefine guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and revenue management.
Manish Gautam’s nomination is a reflection of his:
🏆 Leadership in Boutique Hospitality – Developing Sereni as a premium boutique hotel.
🏆 F&B Innovation & Guest Experience – Enhancing culinary offerings and in-room dining.
🏆 Revenue Growth & Cost Optimization – Implementing financial strategies for long-term success.
🏆 Luxury & International Hospitality Expertise – Bringing global experience from Marriott, Lalit, and Renaissance Dubai.
Awards & Recognitions
🏅 FOSTAC Level 2 Certified – Food Safety & Hygiene.
🏅 Brand Standard Audit – 98% Compliance.
🏅 A+ Hygiene Audit by Dubai Municipality.
🏅 WSET Level A1 Certified – Expertise in Wines & Spirits.
🏅 Dubai Municipality PIC Certification – Hygiene & Food Safety Leadership
🏅 People’s Choice Biography Award 2024 by Hospitality Career Profile.
His track record of excellence in guest services, financial management, and team leadership makes him a top contender for this prestigious award.
Manish Gautam: A Trailblazer in Boutique Hospitality
From working in world-renowned hotels like JW Marriott Marquis Dubai to leading boutique luxury hospitality in India, Manish Gautam’s journey is an inspiring testament to dedication, innovation, and excellence. His nomination for India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025 recognizes his contributions to the boutique hospitality industry and luxury guest experiences.
As he continues to elevate Sereni A Boutique Hotel, Daman, his impact on India’s boutique hospitality sector will inspire future leaders in the industry.
Also read :- Benny George, GM of Mountain Club Resort, Nominated for India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025
