Marriott Appoints Development Veteran Kiran Andicot to Lead South Asia Region

Marriott Taps Veteran Kiran Andicot to Lead South Asia Operations and Development

Bengaluru, September 5, 2025 – In a strategic move to bolster its leadership in a high-growth market, Marriott International Inc. has announced the promotion of Kiran Andicot to the role of Senior Vice President for South Asia. The seasoned hospitality executive, with nearly three decades of experience, will now helm both operations and development for the region, signalling the company’s intent to align its aggressive expansion with operational excellence.

Andicot’s expanded portfolio tasks him with a critical mandate: to deepen partnerships with property owners, accelerate the pace of hotel conversions and new openings, and strengthen the regional leadership team. This consolidation of operations and development under a single leader is seen as a key step for Marriott as it navigates its next chapter in South Asia.

A Record of Unprecedented Growth

Andicot is no stranger to Marriott’s ambitions in the region. Having joined the company’s Development & Feasibility team in 2006, he has spent 19 years rising through the ranks, most recently leading the development charge. His tenure has been marked by historic achievements, including signing more than 220 hotels across India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

His track record in India has been particularly formidable. In 2024 alone, his team secured a record 42 hotels comprising 7,000 rooms. Earlier this year, he orchestrated a landmark deal with Concept Hospitality to affiliate its ‘The Fern’ portfolio of 115 properties with Marriott’s ‘Series’ brand. This move not only dramatically expands Marriott’s footprint but also pushes its presence beyond metropolitan gateway cities into emerging Tier 2 and 3 markets like Surat, Shimla, Jalandhar, and Coorg.

Deep Expertise for a Complex Market

Prior to his prolific stint at Marriott, Andicot built a robust foundation in the industry. His career includes seven years in hotel operations with esteemed groups like IHCL (Taj) and Oberoi across various locations in India, followed by four years in real estate and hospitality consultancy with firms EY and HVS. This multi-disciplinary background, combining hands-on operational knowledge with analytical development expertise, provides a unique skill set for his new role.

Rajeev Menon, President, Marriott International, Asia Pacific (excluding China), underscored Andicot’s proven capabilities in driving the region’s growth. “These accomplishments are a testament to Kiran’s deep understanding of South Asia markets, strong relationships with our owner partners, incisive business acumen and steady leadership,” Menon said. “I am confident that with Kiran’s vast expertise supported by our experienced leadership bench, will position Marriott well as we continue our trajectory of sustained growth in South Asia.”

Media Updates: +91-93531 21474 [WhatsApp] | indianowme@gmail.com

The Road Ahead: Consolidation and Diversification

Andicot’s promotion comes at a pivotal time. The challenge now evolves from merely signing deals to ensuring these new properties are launched successfully and operated to Marriott’s global standards. His dual focus will be crucial in integrating large portfolios like The Fern and managing the expansion into new city markets and segments, including branded residences.

His leadership will be instrumental in cementing Marriott’s position as the largest hospitality chain in India and driving a sustained growth trajectory across the diverse and dynamic South Asian region.