Seasoned Hospitality Leader Steps into Strategic Role at One of Goa’s Most Iconic Luxury Resorts
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the appointment of Aejaz Shaikh as the new Hotel Manager of Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage, further strengthening the leadership team at one of Goa’s most celebrated hospitality destinations.
With over two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Aejaz brings with him a strong blend of commercial strategy, luxury operations expertise, market insight, and guest-centric leadership. Over the years, he has earned a reputation for driving business growth, strengthening brand visibility, and delivering elevated guest experiences across highly competitive hospitality markets.
Prior to taking over this new role, Aejaz served as the Director of Sales & Marketing for Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon and Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage, where he successfully led integrated commercial strategies spanning rooms, food & beverage, weddings, MICE, leisure, and ancillary revenue verticals. Under his leadership, the property witnessed notable momentum in key business segments, particularly in destination weddings, corporate events, and premium leisure travel. (LinkedIn)
Known within hospitality circles for his strong market relationships and deep understanding of the Goa tourism ecosystem, Aejaz has also played an active role in strengthening IHCL’s positioning in the state during a transformative period for Goa’s luxury hospitality sector. His association with Taj Cidade de Goa has coincided with the property’s continued evolution as a flagship leisure and experiential destination under the IHCL portfolio.
An alumnus of the University of Madras and the University of Mumbai, Aejaz holds multiple qualifications in business management, hospitality, and marketing, bringing both operational understanding and strategic business acumen to his leadership approach. (LinkedIn)
Commenting on the appointment, Vivek Batra, General Manager, Taj Cidade de Goa, said:
“Aejaz’s strong commercial acumen and deep understanding of the Goa market make him exceptionally well suited to lead Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage. We are confident that his leadership will further strengthen the hotel’s positioning and continue delivering excellence in guest experiences.”
The appointment comes at a significant time for IHCL’s Goa portfolio, as the company continues to strengthen its luxury and experiential offerings in the state. Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage, known for its Indo-Portuguese architecture, sea-facing experiences, and legacy positioning, remains one of Goa’s most recognised luxury hospitality landmarks.
Industry observers believe Aejaz’s transition from commercial leadership into hotel operations reflects IHCL’s growing emphasis on leaders who understand both revenue strategy and experiential hospitality — a combination increasingly vital in today’s evolving luxury travel landscape.
With Goa continuing to attract a new generation of experiential travellers, destination weddings, and premium leisure seekers, Aejaz’s appointment is expected to further reinforce Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage’s standing as a benchmark for luxury hospitality in the region.
