These Two Men Will Steer IHG Hotels' Growth Plans

Rajit Sukumaran

Rajit Sukumaran has taken on an expanded role as IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Senior Vice President & Managing Director, East Asia & Pacific (EAPAC) to oversee its growth, performance and reputation in more than 20 countries.

Rajit – celebrating 20 years in the hospitality industry – brings a wealth of experience to his newly-created position having led IHG’s South East Asia & Korea (SEAK) business unit over the past four years, during which he developed a deep knowledge of the Asia Pacific region and managed teams across multiple markets. Previously, he oversaw the regional strategy for IHG’s brands growth as Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East, Asia & Africa (EMEAA).

“With so many opportunities to turbocharge our growth across East Asia & Pacific, I’m honoured and excited to be taking on this expanded role to lead IHG’s business in the region,” said Rajit Sukumaran, SVP and Managing Director, East Asia & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “We have a strong team of local market experts who are energised by our culture of firsts and have built a reputation for delivering for owners and guests in the world’s favourite destinations.”

Vivek Bhalla

With Rajit taking on an expanded role, Vivek Bhalla has been promoted to IHG’s Managing Director, SEAK with responsibility for the growth, performance and operations of its estate of more than 120 hotels across 10 brands, and a pipeline of over 90 properties.

Vivek has been with the company since 2016, most recently spending four years as Vice President, Operations, SEAK, before which he had two years in India as Regional Vice President / Head of South West Asia. A veteran of the industry, he has also held commercial and operations roles for a range of hospitality companies across Asia Pacific.

“The South East Asia & Korea division is growing fast, across this diverse and vibrant part of the world, in partnership with our hotel owners,” said Bhalla. “I’m proud to be leading the division and working alongside our talented teams to elevate our performance, expand our estate and provide opportunities for career growth in this dynamic industry.”

Matt Tripolone, Managing Director, Australasia & Pacific and Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director, Japan & Micronesia continue in the roles and join the East Asia & Pacific Leadership team.