Neeraj Katewa is an Assistant Professor at the School of Management, Mahindra University, and a doctoral scholar in Business Environment (Economics) at the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Foundations of Management and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management Indore.

He specializes in development economics, focusing on critical issues in education, health, and labour. His research employs empirical analyses to evaluate the impacts of natural interventions and government policies in these domains. Prior to his doctoral studies, he gained industry experience in consulting after completing his MBA.

His academic accomplishments include a research consultation project for the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) in Japan, a publication in The European Journal of Development Research, the Best Doctoral Research Paper Award at IIM Ahmedabad, and selection for the “Research for Impact Fellowship 2022–23” by CLEAR/J-PAL South Asia at IFMR.

  • Ph.D. in Business Environment (Economics) from the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (2021 – Present; Thesis Submitted)
  • M.B.A. from the Indian Institute of Management Indore (2018 – 2020)
  • B.A. in Foundations of Management from the Indian Institute of Management Indore (2015 – 2018)

Journal Publication
  • Improving Women’s Position in the Household: Evidence from a Maternity Cash Transfer Program in India, The European Journal of Development Research, Volume 36, pp. 1471–1518 (2024). DOI: 10.1057/s41287-024-00647-8
Research Consultancy
  • Project Title: Building Resilient Education Systems in Asia and the Pacific Funded by: Asian Development Bank Institute, Asian Development Bank DOI: 10.56506/IWFG1305

  • Assistant Professor at School of Management, Mahindra University (2025 – Present)
  • Management Trainee in Engagements Division at iQuanti (India) (2020 – 2021)

  • Development Economics
  • Economics of Education
  • Labor Economics
  • Health Economics
  • Agricultural Economics
  • Environmental Economics
  • Spatial Economics

Praharshita Krishna is currently an Assistant Professor at the School of Management, Mahindra University. She is also a doctoral candidate at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad in Management Information Systems. She holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Information Technology. Her research interests include social media, open source software, communities of practice and innovation dispersion. She received the Best Paper Award at 9th PAN-IIM World Management Conference in 2024 held at IIM Sambalpur and it was covered in India Today.

  • Ph.D. Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad – Management Information Systems (2019 – 2025)
  • B.Tech. Keshav Memorial Institute of Technology (2013 – 2017)

No Data

  • 2 years of experience in Product Management at a Mid-sized Mobile Application Development Platform.

Interest areas:

  • Open Source Software
  • Online Communities of Practice
  • Innovation Dispersion

Mr. Vinay Reddy Venumuddala works at the intersection of Information Systems and Public Policy with a focus on design, implementation, and governance of AI-based systems. Prior to his Ph.D., he worked as a Senior SOC Design Engineer at Qualcomm and as a Prime Minister’s Rural Development Fellow. Post Ph.D., he worked as a Research Associate at IIM Bangalore, Post-Doc at IIIT Bangalore, and Assistant Professor at IIT Jodhpur

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy from IIM Bangalore (2017-21).
  • B.Tech (Hons) in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur (2007-11).

Publications
  • Vinay Reddy, Amit Prakash, and Bidisha Chaudhuri (2024). Governing Smart City IoT Interventions: A Complex Adaptive Systems Perspective. Digital Government: Research and Practice.
  • Vinay Reddy and Rajalaxmi Kamath (2024). Evolving Client–Vendor Relationship: As Manifested Through an Artificial Intelligence Research Unit of an Indian IT Organization. Vikalpa.
  • Vinay Reddy and Rajalaxmi Kamath (2023). Emerging technologies and the Indian IT sector. Chapman and Hall/CRC.
  • Vinay Reddy and Rajalaxmi Kamath (2023). Work Systems in the Indian Information Technology (IT) Industry Delivering Artificial Intelligence (AI) Solutions and the Challenges of Work from Home. Information Systems Frontiers, 25(4), 1375-1399.
  • Vinay Reddy and Rajalaxmi Kamath (2020). Actualizing affordances–Story of Indian Information Technology (IT) Industry delivering Artificial Intelligence based solutions. Proceedings of the International Conference on Information Systems.
  • Vinay Reddy, Duvvuru Nagarjuna, G.P Srivastava (2016). Systems and methods for power optimization using throughput feedback. U.S. Patent No. 9,436,263. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
  • Harshit Tiwari, Vinay Reddy (2012). A system to manage power consumption of a processor at run time. Patent No: WO2012031799A1, WIPO.

  • 2023-24 Assistant Professor at IIT Jodhpur
  • 2022-23 Post-Doc at IIIT Bangalore
  • 2021-22 Research Associate, IIM Bangalore
  • 2014-16 Prime Minister’s Rural Development Fellow
  • 2011-14 and 2016-17 Senior SOC Design Engineer, Qualcomm

My research interests include the following topics/areas.

  • Machine Learning and Deep Learning
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • Information Systems Design
  • Governance of AI and IoT based Systems
  • Smart Electricity Grids
  • VLSI Design

Samyuktha Kakarla is a professionally trained pastry chef with a robust foundation in both classical and contemporary pastry arts. She is an alumna of Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, with Diplomas in Pastry and Boulangerie, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, where she graduated with distinction. She also holds a Level 2 Certification in Wine Studies from the International Sommelier Guild, supporting her interdisciplinary approach to flavor, gastronomy, and culinary education.

Her professional experience spans luxury fine dining and boutique patisserie kitchens. At Avartana, ITC Grand Chola, she gained valuable exposure to modern Indian cuisine and the operational dynamics of fine dining. She further developed her craft at Conçu, a renowned boutique patisserie, where she worked as a pastry chef, specializing in desserts, entremets, viennoiseries, and custom cakes. She also led the setup of a new pastry kitchen, gaining hands-on experience in kitchen planning and execution.

Samyuktha’s international exposure includes a brief internship at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Le Baudelaire at Hotel Le Burgundy, Paris, where she was trained in high-end dessert styling and plating. She has collaborated with culinary professionals, including assisting Chef Emanuele Martelli on a professional chocolate sculpture project.

As a faculty associate, she brings a global perspective, industry experience, and a strong commitment to culinary excellence and student mentorship. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in precision, creativity, and a deep respect for technique—aiming to inspire the next generation of pastry professionals.

  • Diploma in Boulangerie – Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, France|2024
  • Diploma in Patisserie – Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, France |2023
  • Wine Fundamentals Certification, Levels 1 and 2, International Sommelier Guild, U.S.A | 2020
  • B.A in Culinary Arts – Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, Manipal Academy of Higher Education | 2017 – 2020

No Data

  • School of Hospitality Management | Mahindra University – Faculty Associate | May 2025 – Present.
  • Pastry Chef | Conçu, Hyderabad |2021- 2023.

No Data

Manish T.K. holds a master’s degree in Hotel Management from Annamalai University and a bachelor’s degree from Srinivas College of Hotel Management, both with first-class honours. Since 2012, he has been a faculty member at the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), MAHE, Manipal, where he last served as Assistant Professor (Senior Scale) in Food & Beverage Production.

His expertise includes food and beverage production, culinary innovation, and food research with a focus on combining traditional and modern techniques, especially in Udupi and Mangalorean cuisines. Manish contributes to curriculum development, mentors students, and organises culinary workshops and food festivals. He has co-authored research on culinary creativity, plant-based meat alternatives, and traditional fermented foods like kimchi.

Manish has gained practical experience through training at renowned hotels such as ITC Grand Chola, Grand Hyatt Goa, and The Oberoi Bengaluru, and has supported training for World Skills competitions. Recognised for his teaching excellence, he is known for his strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.

Manish is committed to continuous learning and actively participates in extracurricular and social service activities, driving innovation and education in the culinary arts.

  • M.Sc. in Hotel Management I Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu (2015–2017)
  • BHM I Srinivas College of Hotel Management, Mangalore University, Karnataka (2008–2012)

Publications
  • “A Bibliometric Framework for Quantifying Research on Kimchi, A Staple Korean Dish.” Published article providing a comprehensive review and analysis of global research trends on Kimchi.

  • Assistant Professor Mahindra University 2025 – Present
  • Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), MAHE, Manipal
  • Assistant Professor (Senior Scale), Food & Beverage Production I January 2020 – April 2025.
  • Assistant Professor, Food & Beverage Production I January 2015 – January 2020
  • Tutor, Food & Beverage Production I August 2012 – January 2015

Co-Author: “Paak Darshini’s Turmeric Wrap Poached Chicken: A Realm of Culinary Creativity, Innovation, and a Blend of Traditional Ingredients with Modern Cooking Techniques” (Literary/ Dramatic Work). A recognised piece showcasing the nutritional richness with high TAC.

Co-Author: “Purchase Intention of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives among the Indian Millennials.” Presented at the 12th Edition of the International Research Symposium on Service Management (IRSSM).

With a diverse career spanning MICE operations, hospitality, and education, Manan brings a unique combination of strategic expertise, operational leadership, and academic insight. His ability to bridge industry and academia allows him to contribute meaningfully across domains, enriching learning ecosystems with real-world perspectives and make a meaningful impact in both domains.

Most recently, at The Banyan Tree, Manan served as Developer – LMS, where he played a pivotal role in conceptualizing, deploying, and maintaining online learning programmes. His work focused on delivering scalable, impactful, and learner-centric digital education experiences.

At Heritage International Xperiential School, Manan played a pivotal role in shaping Global Perspectives and Humanities classes by integrating his extensive industry insights, leading student expeditions, and mentoring young minds with a forward-thinking approach.

Before transitioning to education, Manan built a solid foundation in MICE strategy and conference management. As a Project Manager at KW Conferences Pvt Ltd, he successfully managed high-profile international congresses, academic immersions, corporate conferences, and large-scale exhibitions. His expertise in handling complex logistics, stakeholder coordination, and revenue-driven operations positioned him as a key contributor to the company’s success.

His tenure in the hospitality industry includes managing a high-end resort in Bhutan and delivering customer-centric experiences at prestigious brands such as The Lodhi, Mövenpick Hotel & Spa Bangalore, and Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre. During this period, he played a critical role in managing group operations and orchestrating large-scale conferences and events. Notable among these were the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI), the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), the 17th Commonwealth Law Conference, and the Indian Seed Congress. Additionally, he led the comprehensive ground transportation planning and execution for the prestigious 49th ICCA Congress, which spanned 14 days, multiple hotels, and several local venues.

Manan holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Learning and Teaching (PGDLT) and a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management. Beyond his professional commitments, he is a certified open-water diver and an avid poet, always seeking new avenues for learning and creative expression.

  • BHM – Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, Manipal University (2008)
  • PG Diploma in Learning and Teaching – I Am a Teacher (2021)

No Data

  • Assistant Professor, School of Hospitality and Management, Mahindra University (Feb 2025- present)
  • Developer – LMS, The Banyan Tree, (November ’24 – February ‘25)
  • Educator – Global Perspectives & Humanities, Heritage International Xperiential School, (April ’22 – November ‘24)
  • Resort Manager, Dewa Thimphu by Realm, Thimphu, Bhutan, (June 2019 – March 2020)
  • Project Manager, KW Conferences Pvt Ltd, New Delhi NCR, (August 2014 – May 2019)
  • Asst. Manager Front Office, The Lodhi, New Delhi NCR, (March 2014 – July 2014)
  • Sr. Front Desk Manager, Mövenpick Hotel & Spa, Bangalore, (February 2012 – February 2014)
  • Duty Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Hyderabad, (July 2008 – November 2011)

No Data

Dr. Nishanth is a result-oriented and forward-thinking hospitality management professional with over 17 years of experience in the luxury hotel and food & beverage industry. He has built an exceptional career across leading international brands, including The Park Hotels, Marriott International, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Hyatt.

Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and people-first management style, he has successfully overseen multi-outlet F&B operations, pre-openings, large-scale events, and financial performance improvements. His expertise spans hotel operations, team development, sustainability initiatives, and financial management, with a consistent focus on achieving profitability while enhancing guest satisfaction.

As Director of Food & Beverage, he has played a pivotal role in driving business strategies, developing future leaders, and maintaining brand standards.

His notable achievements include leading the conversion of The Grand Bhagwathi to Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, executing the G20 Summit events in 2023, and managing prestigious events such as the World Chess Championship and Chennai Fashion Week.

A multilingual professional fluent in English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and conversant in European languages including German, French, Italian, and Spanish, he brings strong cross-cultural communication skills and a global perspective to his work.

Prof. Nishanth’s leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and fostering a culture of service excellence.

  • Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) from Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal University – 2008.

Additional language certifications from reputed international institutes:

  • French – Level 1 & Communication Course, Alliance Française de Madras
  • German – Levels 1–3, Max Mueller Bhavan (Goethe-Institut), Chennai – Zertifikat Deutsch
  • Spanish – Levels 1–2, Instituto Hispania, Chennai
  • Italian – Level 1, Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce, Chennai

No Data

  • Seasoned hospitality leader with over 17 years of global experience driving excellence in Food & Beverage and Hotel Operations across premier brands such as Marriott International, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, The Park, and Hyatt. Recognized for delivering strategic growth, operational innovation, and exceptional guest experiences through visionary leadership and a results-driven approach.

No Data

Ms. Divya Manchanda is an Assistant Professor in the Finance area at the School of Management, Mahindra University. Ms. Manchanda is also in the process of completing her Ph.D. in Finance & Accounting from Indian Institute of Management Udaipur.

  • Pursing Ph.D. in Finance & Accounting, Indian Institute of Management Udaipur, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
  • M.Com (Major in Finance), Department of Commerce, Delhi School of Economics.
  • B.Com (Honours), Maitreyi College, University of Delhi

No Data

  • July 2024 to present, Assistant Professor, Mahindra University
  • Academic associate at Indian Institute of Management Udaipur (September 2018 to March 2019)

Research Interests:

  • Climate risk
  • Corporate finance

Jose Manu M A is a Ph.D holder in Marketing from IIM Bangalore. Under the guidance of Prof. G. Shainesh, his thesis work focused on understanding “The Impact of Network Characteristics on Customer Engagement in Review Platforms.” His areas of interest in marketing research include Customer Engagement, Services Marketing, Digital Marketing, and Health Promotion. His work has been accepted at prestigious conferences like the Journal of Public Policy and Marketing (JPPM) Conference, AMA-ServSIG, and Frontiers in Service.

Before enrolling in the doctoral program, he completed a 2-year stint at Cypress Semiconductors as an Operations Analyst. He earned his Master of Engineering degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering from Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, and his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT)

  • Ph.D. in Marketing from Indian Institute of Management (IIM ), Bangalore
  • M.E. Manufacturing Systems Engineering from Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani (Pilani Campus).
  • B.Tech Mechanical Engineering from Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT).

No Data

  • Assistant Professor, Mahindra University (June 2024 to present)

His work has been accepted at various international conferences:

  • “Impact of Network Characteristics on Customer Engagement Behavior on Review Platforms: A Conformity Theory Perspective”, manuscript presented at Frontiers in Services Conference, Maastricht, Netherlands, June 2023.
  • “Customer Engagement in Review Platforms: A Study on the Impact of Network Characteristics”, Accepted at American Marketing Association, SERVSIG 2022 conference, Glasgow, UK, June 2022
  • “Do You Believe It Or Not? – The Role Of Source Credibility In Reducing Stigma And Misinformation About Aids” manuscript presented at American Marketing Association – Journal of Public policy and Marketing (JPPM) conference, in Washington,DC (Hybrid), June, 2021.

Nidhin Mathath is currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Accounting and Finance at the School of Management, Mahindra University. He has submitted his thesis for his Ph.D. in Accounting and Finance at IFMR Graduate School of Business, Krea University. His doctoral research primarily focuses on ESG disclosures of Indian companies. His current areas of interest encompass Sustainable Finance, Corporate Governance, Corporate Finance, and Accounting. Furthermore, he has presented research papers at various prestigious national and international conferences, including the World Finance Conference, World Finance & Banking Symposium, International Conference on Management Research (IIT Madras), Globalizing Indian Thought (IIM Kozhikode), International Conference on Management of MSMEs (IIM Amritsar), Pathways to Sustainable Economy (IIT Bombay) and Research Symposium in Finance and Economics (IFMR GSB).

  • Ph.D. in Finance and Accounting, IFMR Graduate School of Business, Krea University, Andhra Pradesh, India (Thesis Submitted)
  • UGC-NET in Commerce, University Grants Commission, India, 2015
  • M.Com in Finance, Kannur University, Kerala, India, 2015
  • B.Com in Finance, University of Calicut, Kerala India, 2013

Publications
  • Mathath, N., Kumar, V., & Balasubramanian, G. (2024). The effect of Environmental, Social, and Governance disclosure on cost of debt: A life‐cycle perspective. Managerial and Decision Economics. https://doi.org/10.1002/mde.4105 [ABDC-B, Q2] – Published
  • Mathath, N. and Kumar, V. Unlocking Trade Credit Opportunities and Working Capital Efficiency through ESG Disclosure. Australasian Accounting Business and Finance Journal. [ABDC-B, Q2] – Accepted for publication

  • Working as an Assistant Professor of Accounting and Finance at the School of Management, Mahindra University: (April 2024 – present)
  • Lecturer (Part-Time), Mainz International College, Kulhudhuffushi campus, Maldives, January 2018 to June 2019
  • Teacher, Ministry of Education, Maldives, August 2017 to June 2019
  • Lecturer, Excel College of Advanced Studies, Thalassery, Kerala, India, July 2015 – August 2017

  • Sustainable Finance
  • Corporate Finance
  • Corporate Governance
  • Accounting
Make an enquiry Chat with a student