Novotel Goa Resort & Spa Welcomes New Director of Talent and Culture

APPOINTMENT

Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim have announced the appointment of Udayan Damodharan as the new Director of Talent and Culture. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including 14 years with Accor, Damodharan is a seasoned leader in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and leadership development for both properties.

Udayan will focus on creating a more positive and inclusive work environment in his new role. He will be responsible for recruiting and retaining top talent and developing training programs to ensure that employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. He also aims to implement initiatives to improve the quality of life for the properties’ workforce. He prioritises employee engagement and plans to create an environment where staff can thrive and actively participate in Accor’s development programs. Additionally, he will work towards creating a diverse workforce across different societal strata by collaborating with training institutions, establishing formal partnerships with hotel schools, and utilizing social media for active recruitment.

Udayan has extensive experience in pre-opening and successful launches of several properties across India, including Accor properties like Grand Mercure Bangalore and Novotel Kolkata. He is also dedicated to social responsibility and aims to engage hotel staff in CSR initiatives for both properties.

“I am excited to join Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim,” said Mr Udayan Damodharan on his appointment. “Goa’s hospitality sector is seeing an increase in manpower recruitment, and Novotel is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Both properties are undergoing a leadership transformation, and I am confident that my experience and expertise will be significant in helping the team achieve its goals. I am particularly passionate about creating a work environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow their careers. This will be crucial to attracting and retaining top talent in Goa’s dynamic hospitality market.”

“I’m thrilled to welcome Udayan to the Novotel Goa team,” exclaimed Mr. Sachin Maheshwary, General Manager of Novotel Goa Resort & Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim. “His passion for hospitality and proven track record with Accor properties, particularly in pre-openings, make him a perfect fit. Udayan’s commitment to employee development aligns perfectly with our focus on creating a thriving workplace culture. I have no doubt he’ll play a key role in attracting and retaining the best talent, allowing our team to continue exceeding guest expectations.”