Pankaj Saxena: A Visionary Leader in Hospitality
The Indian hospitality industry thrives under exceptional leadership, guest satisfaction, and operational excellence. One such leader making a significant impact is Pankaj Saxena, General Manager of Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi and Area General Manager, West India, Radisson Hotel Group, South Asia. His strategic vision and operational expertise have earned him a nomination for India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025.
With 27 years of experience in managing luxury hotels, multi-property operations, and strategic commercial growth, Pankaj Saxena has played a key role in pre-opening projects, revenue optimization, and guest experience transformation. His ability to enhance hospitality experiences, streamline operations, and develop high-performance teams has positioned him as one of India’s most respected hospitality professionals.
This nomination is a testament to his commitment to operational excellence, revenue growth, and leadership in hospitality management.
Early Life and Educational Background
Pankaj Saxena holds:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management from Mangalore University
- Certification in Business Administration
- Certified Leadership Recognition under Radisson Hotel Group: The Leaders Excellence Program at Corporate Office Brussels, Belgium
His educational background, combined with global certifications, has been instrumental in his success as a strategic hospitality leader.
A Distinguished Career in Hospitality Management
With experience in luxury hotels, multi-property management, and strategic revenue planning, Pankaj Saxena has successfully led pre-opening projects, brand positioning, and operational efficiency initiatives.
Key Career Milestones
Area General Manager, West India – Radisson Hotel Group, South Asia & General Manager – Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi (Present)
As General Manager of Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi and Area GM of West India, Pankaj Saxena is responsible for:
- Leading multi-property hotel operations across West India.
- Driving revenue strategies and financial performance optimization.
- Strengthening corporate partnerships and international brand presence.
- Enhancing guest experience, sustainability, and service innovation.
General Manager – Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport (Previous Role)
- Managed 206 luxurious rooms with world-class amenities.
- Implemented marketing and sales strategies to enhance international business.
Key Contributions to the Hospitality Industry
- Represented Radisson Hotel Group at ITB Berlin and WTM London.
- Led commercial workshops across Southeast Asia & China Road Shows.
- Member of the Board of Poona Hoteliers Association (PHA).
Community & Industry Contributions
- 2009 – Board Director and Advisor, Human Development Foundation of Sikkim (NGO).
- 2011-12 – Vice President, Hotels & Restaurant Association of Andhra Pradesh (HRAAP), affiliated with FHRAI.
Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi – A Benchmark in Luxury Hospitality
Under Pankaj Saxena’s leadership, Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi has become a top-rated business and leisure hotel, offering:
- World-class luxury accommodations with modern amenities.
- Fine dining and premium banquet services.
- Corporate and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities.
- Sustainability-driven operational excellence and energy efficiency.
His strategic focus on business expansion, guest engagement, and operational leadership has helped Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi remain a preferred hospitality destination.
India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025: A Well-Deserved Nomination
The India’s 50 Best General Managers Award 2025 recognizes professionals who excel in hotel operations, revenue growth, and guest experience innovation.
Pankaj Saxena’s nomination highlights his:
- Expertise in Luxury & Multi-Property Hospitality – Managing hotels across India with global brand standards.
- Revenue Growth & Business Expansion – Implementing strategic financial initiatives for long-term profitability.
- International Brand Recognition – Representing Radisson at global hospitality summits and roadshows.
- Sustainability & Guest Service Excellence – Driving eco-friendly operations and customer satisfaction programs.
Awards & Recognitions
- 2024 H&RA Western India: Honours Recognition Award
- 2024 IHC London & IIHM Hospitality Special Jury Award
- 2024 Radisson Hotel Group: Special Recognition Award & Centre of Excellence Recognition Award
- 2012 Government of India – Ministry of Power: Certificate of Merit for Energy Conservation in the Hotel Sector (Awarded at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi in the presence of the Prime Minister of India)
- 2016 Hotel of the Year Award – Radisson Hotel Group Asia Pacific Business Conference
- 2016 “Samman Patra” Award by the King of Mysore for contributions to Central Board of Excise revenue
These awards showcase his commitment to innovation, sustainability, and hospitality leadership.
Pankaj Saxena: A Hospitality Visionary Setting New Standards
From managing luxury hotel brands to leading multi-property operations, Pankaj Saxena’s career reflects his expertise in strategic hotel management, business expansion, and guest experience enhancement. His nomination for India’s 50 Best General Managers 2025 is a testament to his impact on the hospitality industry and dedication to service excellence.
As he continues to lead Radisson Blu Pune Kharadi and multiple properties in West India, his contributions will shape the future of high-end hospitality in India.
