Khao Lak, Thailand: JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa has appointed Varun Babbar as Hotel Manager, effective September 1, 2026. He brings experience in luxury hotel operations, pre-openings, guest experience and team management across properties in Sri Lanka and India.
Babbar joins the resort from Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka, where he most recently served as Director of Operations.
The leadership addition supports Marriott’s growth trajectory, reflecting activity in executive movements in hotels.Varun Babbar to Oversee Resort Operations
In his new role, Babbar will oversee hotel operations at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, focusing on operational performance, service standards, guest satisfaction and team development.
His appointment marks a return to JW Marriott, where he previously held leadership positions at several properties in India.
Previous Role at Cinnamon Life, Sri Lanka
Before joining JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, Babbar served as Director of Operations at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka.
He joined the property’s pre-opening team as Director of Rooms in January 2024 and was promoted to Director of Operations in September 2025.
His responsibilities included overseeing more than 400 associates across Rooms, Spa and Guest Experience, alongside operational readiness, standard operating procedures and brand standards.
Leadership Experience Across JW Marriott Properties in India
Earlier in his career, Babbar held leadership positions at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, JW Marriott Jaipur Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Goa.
At JW Marriott Goa, he served as Director of Rooms during the hotel’s opening year. During his tenure, the property improved its Tripadvisor ranking from 67th to fifth within six months.
At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Babbar received two nominations in the Rooms Front of the House category at the Global Discipline Awards and was recognised as the hotel’s Guest Voice Champion.
His experience across these properties includes rooms division management, hotel openings and guest service operations.
Varun Babbar on His Appointment
Commenting on his new role, Varun Babbar, Hotel Manager, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, said:
“I am delighted to join JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa and return to a brand that has played an important role in my professional journey. I look forward to working closely with our talented associates to strengthen our culture of service excellence, create meaningful experiences for our guests and continue building on the resort’s reputation as a leading luxury destination in Thailand.”
Resort Leadership Welcomes the Appointment
Abhimanyu Singh, Area General Manager, Southern Thailand and General Manager, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Varun to the team. His extensive background in luxury hospitality, particularly in hotel openings and operational excellence, brings valuable expertise to the resort. His commitment to developing strong teams and upholding the highest standards of service aligns closely with our values, and we look forward to his leadership in further enhancing our guests’ stays.”
Babbar will work with the resort’s leadership and operational teams to maintain service standards and support the property’s performance in Thailand’s luxury hospitality market.
