JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu has strengthened its commercial leadership with the appointment of Harshad Makasare as Director of Sales. Makasare brings more than 16 years of luxury hospitality experience, most recently as Associate Director of Sales – Corporate at The Oberoi Group, where he managed key client relationships and led corporate sales strategies across India.
In his new role, Makasare will lead the hotel's sales strategy, focusing on business development across corporate, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), and leisure segments. He will also work to strengthen existing partnerships and identify new growth opportunities to enhance the property's market share in Mumbai's competitive luxury landscape.
Strategic move for Mumbai's luxury market
The appointment comes as JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu aims to reinforce its position as a leading luxury hospitality destination in Mumbai. The hotel, part of Marriott International's luxury portfolio, has been investing in commercial performance and guest experience enhancements. Makasare's track record in revenue optimisation and commercial strategy is expected to support these efforts.
Makasare is known for a customer-centric approach and strong commercial acumen. His career has been marked by building long-term partnerships and delivering value-driven solutions that drive business growth. Colleagues describe him as a strategic thinker who understands the nuances of both corporate and leisure travel demands.
His experience spans not only luxury hotels but also corporate services, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the evolving business landscape. This is particularly relevant as Mumbai's hospitality sector rebounds and MICE activity picks up pace.
The hotel's leadership expressed confidence that Makasare's appointment will bring fresh momentum to its sales operations. His focus will be on deepening relationships with corporate accounts, travel agents, and event planners, while also tapping into emerging leisure demand.
JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is one of the city's prominent luxury properties, known for its beachfront location and extensive meeting facilities. The hotel has been actively updating its offerings, and this leadership change signals a continued emphasis on commercial growth.
Makasare's appointment also reflects a broader trend in the Indian hospitality industry, where hotels are prioritising sales leadership with strong regional networks and digital savvy. As competition intensifies among luxury brands in Mumbai, properties are investing in talent that can navigate both traditional and digital sales channels.
Industry observers note that Makasare's experience with The Oberoi Group, a rival luxury chain, will be valuable in differentiating JW Marriott's sales approach. His understanding of high-end corporate client expectations aligns well with the brand's service standards.
For travel professionals, this appointment is a signal of JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu's intent to grow its share of the corporate and MICE segments. The hotel is likely to roll out new initiatives under Makasare's leadership, including targeted campaigns for international meetings and incentives.
Makasare's role will also involve collaborating with Marriott International's global sales network, ensuring that the Mumbai property is well-positioned in the company's worldwide portfolio. This includes leveraging the brand's loyalty programme and digital platforms to attract both business and leisure travellers.
As Mumbai's hospitality market continues to evolve, leadership changes like this are closely watched by industry stakeholders. The appointment underscores the importance of experienced sales leadership in driving performance in a competitive environment.
