Dr. Bhuvan, an alumnus of Christ College Bangalore (now Christ University), is a highly accomplished individual with extensive experience in hospitality academics and administration spanning over 29 years. He holds several degrees, including a Graduate degree in Hotel Management, Post Graduate degrees in Tourism and Human Resources, Economics, an M.Phil degree in Tourism Management, and a PhD in Management.

He is a member of various academic and industry fora and has contributed to the field by organizing, participating in, and publishing several papers in national and international conferences. Dr. Bhuvan was also part of a two-member committee that formulated and developed the Model Curriculum for the 4-year BHM programme of AICTE, New Delhi. He was the former Chairman of the Board of Studies at Bangalore University, a member of the NAAC peer team, and the Past President of Rotary Club of New Bombay Hill Side.

Dr. Bhuvan is passionate about Hospitality Research, Strategic Management, and Cross-Cultural Dynamics, and was a representative of GSE "Team India" to the United Kingdom sponsored by Rotary International. He has attended Professional Development Programs (PDP) in Strategic Management and Leadership from Cornell University, USA. He was the Head of the Department of Hotel Management at Christ College Bangalore and was featured among the Top 100 most influential people in the Hospitality Industry 2013 by Hotelier India. Additionally, he received the Distinguished Service Award from Brand CAI, Hyderabad.

Dr. Bhuvan's key role is to coordinate the Training function across The Park Hotels and operate the Corporate Management Training Programme for The Park Hotels. This includes managing the Hospitality Degree Programme from the University of Mumbai, IATA Programme, Professional Development Programme for the Industry, and undertaking Corporate Training, Consultancy, and Research.

Mr. Shirish Bokde is a highly accomplished professional with an impressive academic and professional background. He graduated from the Institute of Hotel Management Applied Nutrition & Catering Technology, Mumbai in 1990, and has since accumulated over 30 years of invaluable experience in the hospitality industry, including six years of hands-on industry experience.

As a Vice Principal at Apeejay Institute of Hospitality, Navi Mumbai, Mr. Bokde has played a pivotal role in the development of curriculum, and his expertise is often sought in the inspection of new colleges. In addition, he has attended Professional Development Programmes (PDP) in Hotel Revenue Management and Strategic Hospitality Management from Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, which has further enhanced his knowledge and expertise in the field.

Mr. Bokde's passion for technology is well-known, and he is often regarded as the go-to person for advice on gadgets and technological advancements. He has also established a strong rapport with the industry and is widely respected for his contributions to the field. Outside of work, he enjoys photography and travelling, and is also a food enthusiast who enjoys experimenting with new recipes.

An alumna of the 1997 batch of the Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition Mumbai, Dr. Laxmi Todiwan started her career with the Taj Group of hotels (Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai). After 4 years of working in the hotel operations, she joined her alma mater IHM Mumbai as a faculty in the Rooms Division Management and was the coordinator of industrial training for all IHM students interning in Mumbai; she worked there for 6 years. Equipped with rich experience in hotel operations, teaching, training and coaching, she came onboard the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in April 2007 as a pre- opening team member.

She has attended PDPs at the Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA. She is an Emotional Intelligence coach, counselor and an advocate of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). She has hosted many functions of repute as the Master of Ceremonies. Dr. Todiwan is passionate about writing and is a motivational speaker. She is the Founder of Indian Women in Hospitality (IWH) a forum for Indian women working in the hospitality and tourism industry around the globe.

She has been felicitated with many awards and accolades for her work; featuring her among the top women hospitality leaders, educators and hospitality training professionals in the country. She writes for hospitality journals, international websites and columns in the newspapers. Explore more about her impactful journey and glimpse of her work at www.theiwh.com

Mr. Smitesh Sonone, a graduate of the esteemed Anjuman - I - Islam Institute of Hotel Management - alumni 2004 batch, has accumulated more than 17 years of experience in the area of Food and Beverage Service. He began his journey as a Room Service Captain at the Ramada Palm Grove Hotel in Juhu and over the years has gained diverse experience, which includes working in a renowned 5-star chain of hotels in India and well as in the United Kingdom, with working in companies like Godrej and working at various prestigious hospitality colleges in Mumbai and Dubai. Additionally, Mr. Smitesh holds a PGDBA certificate and possesses WSET Level 2 certification on wines and spirits as well.

He was also recognized for his outstanding performance as the Best Employee in Sales while working with the Godrej and furthermore, has received the prestigious Best Trainer Award from Mantralaya, a recognition bestowed by the Government of India. Mr. Smitesh Sonone has also gained extensive knowledge and training from esteemed figures in the Beverage Industry, such as Mr. Magandeep Singh. His expertise primarily lies in the wine industry, where he has dedicated himself to continuous learning and training.

At AIH, we are privileged to leverage his nearly 17 years of experience in both the domestic and international spheres of the hospitality industry. His teaching style is well-recognized and liked by his past employers at hospitality colleges, as is his attitude to his profession with a cheerful and open demeanour, which fosters a pleasurable and productive working atmosphere.

Chef Vini Shivkar holds an M.Sc. in Tourism & Hospitality Management from Madurai Kamaraj University and a B.Sc. in Hospitality Studies from the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality, affiliated to the University of Mumbai. 

With over 11 years of extensive experience in both professional kitchens and academic settings, Chef Vini is deeply passionate about culinary arts and hospitality education. She has been guiding students in developing their culinary theory and practical skill sets since 2017.

Having worked with prestigious organisations like the Andaz Capital Gate, Abu Dhabi, and Hyatt Regency, Mumbai, Chef Vini brings a solid foundation in international hospitality standards. These experiences enhanced her expertise in kitchen management, menu planning, inventory control, and team leadership.

Chef Vini is known for her commitment to excellence and continuous professional development. Noteworthy achievements include being felicitated with the Best Teacher Award at the ITM IHM and receiving a Silver Medal for flower arrangement at Inter collegiate event, the WQSHA Quest 2012. With a meticulous work ethic, strong leadership skills, and adaptability, Chef Vini is dedicated to preparing students for success in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.

Mr. Mandar Vedpathak completed his BSc Hospitality Studies from Anjuman- I-Islam IHMCT, Mumbai in 2012. He is pursuing his Masters in Hotel Administration from University of Mumbai. Mr. Vedpathak started his career with Sofitel Mumbai BKC hotel in the Front Office department as a Guest Service Ambassador. Having gained the operational experience in a pre opening property, he moved to the hotel Intercontinental, Marine Drive as a Reservation Executive. Having learned the nuances of the Front office department he then joined the Trident Hotel, Nariman Point in 2014. He then worked with the Imperial Club by Taj at the Front Desk and later handled Spa reservations. Mr. Vedpathak has also worked with Moksh Farms and Resorts Lonavla as the Front Desk Manager. He nurtured the passion to share his knowledge with the young professionals so he embarked on his teaching career in 2022.

Having gained intensive knowledge in hotel operations and teaching he came onboard the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in 2023.

Mr. Vedpathak is fond of singing and follows his passion of music by performing stage shows.

Chef Vijaya Koli is a graduate in Hospitality Studies from the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality, having completed her course in 2019. She was selected as a Kitchen Management Trainee in the prestigious The Park Management Training Programme, where she specialized in bakery and patisserie. She was posted at the iconic Flury’s in Kolkata, completing the MT programme and becoming a Kitchen Executive before being posted at The Park Navi Mumbai. There, she was responsible for setting up and training staff for the Flury’s Mumbai outlets. With exposure to kitchen operations and staff training, she followed her passion for teaching and joined AIH as a faculty member.

Apart from her love for culinary arts, Chef Vijaya is also fond of travelling, sports, and going on food trails.

Ms. Reena Patil has over two decades of work experience in the field of library science. She is an alumnus of S.I.E.S College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Mumbai, where she completed her Post Graduate in Library Science from the University of Mumbai. Ms. Patil has handled Information and Resource centres at various organizations such as Accenture Services Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, Royal College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Mumbai, and the University of Chemical Technology (MUCIT).

Ms. Patil joined Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in 2007 as a part of the pre-opening team. Her interests lie in wellness, beauty, and culinary, and she enjoys creating new recipes. To know more about her, one can read her blog at www.reena-libraryzone.blogspot.in.

Ms. Shreya Sawant is a Commerce graduate from the University of Mumbai, having completed her course from K.P.B. Hinduja College of Commerce, Mumbai. Her career began in 1998 with a CA firm, where she worked as an Accounts Assistant. In 2001, she joined Embassy Silicones (I) Pvt. Ltd. and worked there for seven years before moving on to a German MNC, Bizerba India Pvt. Ltd., in 2009 as an Accounts Executive. Subsequently, she worked with Prashanth Projects Limited as an MIS Executive. With extensive experience in Accounts, MIS, and administration operations, Ms. Shreya Sawant joined AIH in 2013, and it has been almost 10 years since then. Her experience with AIH has been wonderful, and she has gained valuable insights and skills throughout her tenure.

Mr. Nitin Meshram began his career with Arun Muchhala International College of Hotel Management & Catering Technology in 1996 and worked there for 11 years. He joined AIH in 2007 as a pre opening team member and has been successfully handling all liaisoning activities with respect to students and academics with University and the Government bodies. He loves music and dance and plays volleyball.

Mr. Lav Adavi started his career with ING Life Insurance Company is 2010 and came onboard the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in 2011. He handles student data and coordinates all academic/ examination activities with the faculty team. He is a keen photographer and loves to play music as a DJ.

Ms. Yashwanthi Poojari is a B.Com graduate from The University of Mumbai and studied at the Gokhale College Borivali. She started her career with S.P. Sanghi Airconditiong Pvt. Ltd. as an Accounts Assistant and worked there for 12 years before joining AIH in 2017 as an Accountant. Ms. Poojari is a team player and finds good work to be therapeutic.

Ms. Jyoti Phalke, the Assistant Librarian at the Resource Centre, holds a Master's degree in Sanskrit and Library and Information Science from Pune University. She embarked on her professional journey in 2016 as a Trainee Librarian at Pune University after completing her post-graduation. She worked at IMCOST before joining Vispute B. Ed College as a Librarian and academic faculty. After serving there for three years, she became a Librarian cum Lecturer at St. Wilfred CBSC School. Ms. Phalke joined the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in 2023, where she is responsible for managing the Resource Centre and the IT Lab.

Ms. Phalke's research paper titled 'Digital Library: An e-Book Access Option in Covid-19' was published in a journal by Ajanta Publication in 2020. She specializes in creating QR codes for libraries and has expertise in setting up virtual libraries in PDF format. Apart from her professional commitments, she has a keen interest in sketching and often indulges in this creative pursuit.

Ms. Samiksha Patil completed her graduation in Hospitality & Tourism Management Studies from Dr. DY Patil University. She started her career in 2008 with Hotel The Residence, Mumbai. With 8 years of experience in handling Front Desk as an Executive with esteemed corporate companies such as India Bulls & HDFC Bank HO respectively. Ms. Patil joined AIH in 2019 and currently handles multiple tasks of Front Desk along with ensuring admission process and working as Secretary to The Principal. She loves to travel and is passionate about dance and music.

Ganesh Ballal is an accomplished professional with a Master's degree in History, a Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science, and additional qualifications in Computer Operations, Programming, Hardware, and Networking. He joined the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in 2015 and has proven to be an invaluable asset to the institution. Ganesh is a dynamic individual who manages the boy's hostel with great efficiency and dedication, ensuring the students' comfort and safety. He is also passionate about adventure and loves going on road trips and biking.

Mr. Nikhil Kalke is an Administrative Assistant with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Mumbai, which he completed in 2018. He subsequently joined the Apeejay Institute of Hospitality in Navi Mumbai. In addition to his professional pursuits, Mr. Kalke is passionate about cricket and enjoys cooking in his spare time. He is also an enthusiastic traveler and enjoys discovering new destinations.