The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the launch of the Leela Centre of Excellence (LCoE), a strategic initiative aimed at building a future-ready hospitality talent pipeline and institutionalising service excellence across its expanding luxury ecosystem. Developed in association with Le Cordon Bleu and GD Goenka University, the initiative comes at a pivotal stage in The Leela’s growth journey as the brand prepares to expand from 15 to 24 hotels over the next three years.
The LCoE is expected to induct, train, and develop over 3,000 associates while strengthening leadership capabilities, operational standards, and service excellence across the organisation. Spread across nearly 9,600 sq. ft. within the 50,000 sq. ft. GD Goenka School of Hospitality & Culinary Management, the Centre has been designed as an immersive learning hub featuring dedicated classrooms, an auditorium, advanced training kitchens, and integrated residential and recreational facilities.
The Centre introduces structured academic pathways, including a BBA in Hospitality aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, along with dual certifications from Le Cordon Bleu and GD Goenka University. The programme blends academic learning with practical hospitality exposure to nurture globally benchmarked professionals aligned with The Leela’s standards of excellence and Indian luxury hospitality.
As part of its long-term investment in talent development, The Leela will annually support structured learning initiatives impacting more than 650 associates and managers. These include leadership and functional development programmes under the Leela Executive Accelerated Development (LEAD) initiative, operational and academic training through The Leela Palace Services (TLPS) and Leela Leadership Development Programme (LLDP), alongside Butler Development and culinary capability-building programmes under Shefs at The Leela.
Speaking on the occasion, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening people, culture, and service consistency as the brand enters its next phase of growth.
The Leela Centre of Excellence will also serve as the strategic umbrella for existing talent and capability-building programmes, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering world-class Indian hospitality rooted in warmth, grace, and excellence.
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