Param Kannampilly, Executive Chairman of Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., was conferred the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hospitality Horizon Top 50 Hotel Awards 2025, held at the Hilton Mumbai International Airport on Thursday, November 27, 2025. The honour celebrates his extraordinary five-decade long contribution to shaping, elevating and modernising the Indian hospitality landscape.
Speaking on receiving the award, Mr. Param Kannampilly said, “I am deeply humbled by this recognition. The hospitality industry has been my lifelong passion and this honour reaffirms my belief that sustainable, responsible and people-centred hospitality continues to be the way forward for our sector.”
Widely regarded as one of the most influential and respected figures in the industry, Mr. Kannampilly’s journey has been defined by vision, integrity and an unyielding commitment to sustainable hospitality. Beginning his career in the mid-1970s after completing his Post Graduate Diploma in Hotel Management from IHM Mumbai, he held pivotal leadership roles across renowned organisations such as the Taj Group, Spencer Group, The Leela etc. Over the years, he consistently demonstrated a rare ability to innovate, scale operations and redefine industry benchmarks.
A turning point came with his foray into entrepreneurship, where he played a critical role in conceptualising and developing iconic eco-friendly hotels including The Orchid Mumbai- Asia’s first Ecotel Hotel. In 2009, he founded Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., which went on to launch The Fern Hotels & Resorts, now recognised as India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel brand. Under his stewardship, the group has grown to more than 100 properties, with numerous accolades for its pioneering sustainability initiatives.
His contributions have been widely recognized, including prestigious awards and accolades. These include being inducted into the Hall of Fame by his alma mater, Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Mumbai at the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and receiving a Fellowship from the Academy of Productivity Science in recognition of his notable contributions to environmental sustainability. He is also a Fellow of both The Institute of Hospitality in London and the World Academy of Productivity Science. Additionally, he was conferred with the UN Global Futures Network Award (a United Nations affiliate) for his exceptional work in advancing sustainable development and contributing to the future of humanity. He also serves as a co-opted member of the Executive Committee of FHRAI and a special invitee member of the HRAWI Executive Committee.
The Lifetime Achievement Award stands as a testament to his enduring influence, pioneering leadership in eco-conscious hospitality and his role as a mentor and inspiration to countless professionals across the country. His legacy continues to shape the future of Indian hospitality, setting a standard that blends operational excellence with environmental stewardship.
