Gajanan Shirke

Independent Director and hospitality strategist with 20+ years of experience spanning hotel operations, asset optimization, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Proven track record in driving profitability, operational excellence, and strategic growth across hospitality assets in India and international markets. Brings strong expertise in governance, risk oversight, ESG integration, and performance improvement.

Experienced in scaling businesses, leading multi-location operations, and advising promoters and investors on high-value hospitality projects.

Director - Strategic Hotels Pvt. Ltd. - India & Global Projects

(2019-01)

Board member contributing to strategy, performance oversight, and business growth

• Oversaw 19+ hospitality projects across India, Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa
• Managed 10+ hotels (3–5 star categories), driving revenue growth, cost optimization, and asset performance

Founder & Managing Director - Hotel 7th Sense - India

(2019-06 - 2022-03)

Founded and led a business hotel with full P&L responsibility

• Drove market positioning, operational efficiency, and guest experience excellence
• Built and led high-performance teams delivering consistent service standards

Vice President – Operations & Sales - Dhillon Hotels - India

(2012-06 - 2019-07)

Led group operations, sales, and new hotel development

• Managed MIS, budgeting, cost control, and audit compliance
• Delivered operational efficiency, revenue growth, and leadership capability building

General Manager - VITS Hotels & Lotus Resorts - Pune, India

(2010-09 - 2012-05)

Managed end-to-end operations with full P&L ownership

• Strengthened profitability through financial discipline and sales strategy
• Ensured compliance with statutory, safety, and quality standards

General Manager - Hotel Shamrock International - Raipur, India

(2008-11 - 2010-09)

Led successful pre-opening and launch of business hotel

• Implemented SOPs, revenue strategies, and operational systems
• Positioned property as a leading business destination

Operations Manager - Kamat Hotels India Ltd. - Raipur & Nagpur Region

(2006-07 - 2008-10)

• Led new restaurant development and regional operations
• Strengthened performance monitoring and operational efficiency

Assistant F&B Manager - Hotel Babylon International - Raipur, India

(2003-04 - 2006-07)

• Managed F&B operations, staffing, and service delivery
• Improved operational efficiency and service standards

JOA (F&B Service) - Hotel Clarks Khajuraho - Khajuraho, India

(1999-05 - 2000-11)

• Delivered guest service excellence, building foundational hospitality expertise

Doctorate - Hospitality Administration/Management - Bharat Virtual University (2022)

MBA - Marketing Management - L.N.

Mishra

Institute of Economic Development & Social Change, Patna (Magadh University, Gaya) (2008 - 2008)

Diploma - Hotel Management - National Institute of Hotel Management, Bhubaneswar (1996 - 1999)