Accor announces the appointment of Satish Kumar as Senior Director Talent & Culture, India & South Asia effective from 1 July 2020, succeeding Ashwin Shirali as he departs for his retirement. In the past, Ashwin has immensely contributed to the growth of the organization. During his tenure, he successfully spearheaded many pathbreaking employee and CSR campaigns which has helped the company nurture its talent.

With more than 20 years of experience in talent development, Satish in his new role will handle India hotel operations management teams. He will be responsible for driving a team of 9500 employees in 50 hotels. 

Satish has been with Accor for a decade now and had joined the Group in 2010 as Learning and Development Manager at ibis and Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, the first Accor combo property in India. Two years later he moved to Accor India corporate office for launching and establishing a high-quality Accor Academy, successfully embedding the learning and development culture in the operational DNA of all hotels in India.

In his last role as Director of Learning & Talent Development, India & South Asia he was leading the team of talent development professionals located across the country to deliver learning and talent development solutions to hotels in the region. He was instrumental in identifying and developing high potential leadership talent into leadership roles through various fast track development programs. Prior to joining Accor, Kumar was associated with ITC Hotels and Sarovar Hotels.

Commenting on this development, Jean-Michel Cassé - Chief Operating Officer, Accor – India & South Asia said, “With exemplary experience in learning and talent development, we are definite that Satish will further exemplify Accor’s values and culture in its management. During the last ten years, he has been instrumental in driving campaigns like Accor Academy, virtual learning network for India & South Asia and various learning and talent development initiatives. We are certain that his deep experience in developing a high-performing and motivated workforce will greatly benefit our position in the market."