
The Fern Hotels & Resorts, managed by Concept Hospitality, has announced a strategic reshuffle of its senior leadership team to further strengthen its position in India’s rapidly growing hospitality sector. The company has promoted key personnel across Business Development, Operations, and Sales & Marketing to drive future growth and enhance operational efficiency.
In a major move, Basant Sabu has been promoted to Vice President – Business Development & Feasibility. Sabu has played a pivotal role in the company’s remarkable expansion from just 23 operational hotels with 1,300 rooms in 2015 to over 100 hotels with 6,500+ rooms today. Under his leadership, The Fern Hotels & Resorts recently crossed a milestone of 150+ signed properties with more than 10,000 rooms across India. His deep understanding of market trends and strategic development continues to drive Concept Hospitality’s growth engine.
Devraj Halder has been elevated to Associate Vice President – Operations (North India). With over 20 years of industry experience, Halder brings a wealth of operational expertise from his previous roles at Club Mahindra (Mahindra & Mahindra), Renaissance, IHG, and Royal Orchid Hotels. Known for his innovative thinking, strong leadership, and team synergy, he plays a critical role in maintaining service excellence and operational consistency in Northern India.
In the Sales & Marketing division, Kevin Ashley Martis has been promoted to Associate Vice President – Sales & Marketing (Western India). With a robust background in hospitality sales spanning more than two decades, Martis has significantly contributed to The Fern’s revenue growth and regional visibility. He currently oversees the company’s Mumbai and Gujarat Regional Sales Offices and spearheads sales and marketing efforts across hotels in Mumbai, Gujarat, and Goa. His extensive industry network and customer-first approach continue to boost the company’s market share in Western India.
Similarly, Vinod Cougnery has been appointed Associate Vice President – Sales & Marketing (Maharashtra). A veteran hospitality professional with over 23 years of experience, Cougnery manages the Pune Regional Sales Office and leads the sales strategy for hotels across Maharashtra. His previous stints include senior roles at The Orchid Group of Hotels, Regus Plc, Hotel Parc Estique, and Concept Hospitality. Notably, he was awarded ‘The Most Successful General Manager – Sales & Marketing of the Year’ at the Hospitality India Travel Awards 2023. His data-driven insights, collaborative leadership, and strong market presence are instrumental in promoting The Fern’s eco-sensitive hospitality philosophy.
With these appointments, The Fern Hotels & Resorts reaffirms its commitment to empowering leadership, strengthening regional operations, and driving sustainable growth across India’s evolving hospitality landscape.