Marriott International Appoints Kiran Andicot as Senior Vice President, South Asia, Signaling Next Phase of Growth

Mumbai, India (Press Trust of India) – Marriott International, a global leader in hospitality, has announced the appointment of Kiran Andicot as Senior Vice President, Development & Operations, South Asia. In this expanded role, Kiran will oversee Marriott’s operations and growth strategy across India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, aligning operational excellence with ambitious expansion plans and strengthening partnerships with hotel owners.

Kiran brings nearly three decades of experience spanning hotel operations, consultancy, feasibility studies, and development across South Asia. Having joined Marriott in 2006 as part of its Development & Feasibility team, he has steadily risen through the ranks over his 19-year tenure. His in-depth market insight and multi-disciplinary expertise have positioned Marriott to continue its trajectory of sustained growth, making it the largest hospitality chain in India.

Under Kiran’s leadership, Marriott has achieved unprecedented momentum in the region. He and his team have signed over 220 hotels across South Asia, including a record 42 hotels and 7,000 rooms in India in 2024 alone. Earlier this year, Marriott finalized a landmark affiliation with Concept Hospitality, bringing The Fern portfolio of 115 properties under Marriott’s Series by Marriott brand. These strategic signings not only extend Marriott’s footprint beyond traditional gateway cities into Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets such as Surat, Shimla, Jalandhar, and Coorg, but also diversify its portfolio into the residences segment.

Rajeev Menon, President, Marriott International Asia Pacific (excluding China), said, “Kiran’s deep understanding of South Asian markets, strong relationships with owner partners, and business acumen make him ideally suited to guide Marriott through this exciting growth phase. Supported by a robust leadership bench, his vision will ensure sustained expansion and operational excellence across the region.”

Prior to joining Marriott, Kiran gained extensive experience in real estate and hospitality consultancy with EY and HVS, alongside seven years in hotel operations with IHCL and the Oberoi Group at multiple locations across India. This combination of strategic insight and operational expertise allows him to navigate complex market dynamics while fostering meaningful partnerships with property owners.

Marriott International, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, operates more than 9,600 properties under over 30 leading brands in 143 countries and territories worldwide. From hotels and residences to timeshares and vacation properties, Marriott continues to redefine hospitality through innovation, service excellence, and its highly awarded Marriott Bonvoy® travel platform.

Kiran’s appointment marks a pivotal step in Marriott’s growth journey in South Asia, reflecting the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences while strategically expanding its footprint in emerging and established markets. With a focus on operational performance, leadership development, and innovation, Marriott aims to continue setting benchmarks in the region’s hospitality landscape.

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) operates, franchises, and licenses lodging properties globally, encompassing hotels, residential, and timeshare properties. For more information, visit www.marriott.com or the company’s news center at www.marriottnewscenter.com.