CASSÉ, better known as JMC, has played a pivotal role in the group's success in the country, previously as Senior Vice President and then as COO.

After leading the global hospitality major -- ACCOR Hotels -- for over three years as Chief Operating Officer [COO] - India and South Asia, Jean-Michel CASSÉ retires from his position.

CASSÉ, better known as JMC, has played a pivotal role in the group's success in the country, previously as Senior Vice President and then as COO. He has played an integral role in taking the group to new heights in India since taking over responsibilities in 2008.

Commenting on his retirement, JMC told BW HOTELIER, "My journey with Accor India has come to an end and I soon retire from my position as the Chief Operating Officer - India and South Asia effective 15th July 2020."

"Leaving India, is undeniably the hardest thing to do. Before I leave for France, I just wanted to say that it has been an absolute honour and privilege to interact with you all these years. Would like to thank you with my heart and soul for your constant support and assistance to Accor and me," he further expressed.

Taking over the reins for India, Puneet Dhawan will head as Senior VP Operations, India & South Asia at Accor. Being an integral part of the group for over two decades, Dhawan brings a vast operational and management experience of working with several hotel properties in Asia.

"Before moving ahead, I would like to introduce Puneet Dhawan, who has been an integral part of Accor for over two decades. Puneet is taking charge from 1st August as Senior VP Operations, India & South Asia reporting to Garth Simmons Chief Operating Officer, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and South Asia. I am confident that with your support and cooperation, he will further bolster Accor’s position in the hospitality industry," JMC said.

Well engrained in Accor’s culture, Dhawan will handle the group’s operations and strategies to ensure Accor’s continued growth momentum in India and South Asia.

Congratulating Puneet Dhawan on his new position, Michael Issenberg, Chairman and CEO Accor Asia Pacific said, “With extensive industry experience and deep understanding of varied cultures, Puneet will contribute immensely in fortifying Accor’s position in India and South Asia. Being well conversant with Accor’s commitment with its guests and owners, we are certain that he will bolster our core offerings and further define our footprint in the global hospitality industry.”

Dhawan holds a Hotel and Restaurant Administration degree from Switzerland, and a Hotel, Restaurant and Travel Administration degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in the United States.