Prof. Irfan Mirza

Prof. Irfan Mirza

Director & Principal – V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE)

Prof. Mirza’s distinguished journey in hospitality education began after graduating from César Ritz Colleges, Switzerland—an experience that laid the foundation for a global perspective on hospitality. This was followed by advanced studies in Ireland, a decision that further broadened Prof. Mirza’s understanding of the international hospitality landscape.

Upon returning to India, Prof. Mirza felt a strong calling to contribute meaningfully to hospitality education and thus embarked on an academic career in this field. Over the years, Prof. Mirza served as the President of the Alumni Chapter of César Ritz Colleges, fostering global connections among alumni. In addition, Prof. Mirza held the role of Academic Coordinator (India) for César Ritz, maintaining close ties with the alma mater.

A strong advocate for excellence in hospitality education, Prof. Mirza became a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) and joined the faculty of the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, USA. In the early stages of the academic career, Prof. Mirza worked as a Senior Instructor at the Institute of Hotel Management in Kovalam, followed by the role of Project Director and Founder Principal at the Oriental School of Hotel Management, an experience that solidified a passion for academic leadership and institution-building.

An important phase of Prof. Mirza’s career took place in Dubai, where work with the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing involved designing customized training programs for five-star hotels. As Senior Trainer and Specialist, Prof. Mirza played a significant role in training UAE nationals and shaping the region’s hospitality standards.

Driven by a vision to create world-class educational institutions, Prof. Mirza contributed to the launch of the European International College in Abu Dhabi and played a pivotal role in establishing the Jindal School of Management in Baroda. These initiatives provided valuable insights into adapting hospitality education to diverse regional and cultural contexts.

In 2014, Prof. Mirza was appointed Director and Principal of the V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE), having also served as Project Consultant during the institute’s inception. With a mission to position VMSIIHE among the world’s leading institutions, Prof. Mirza’s leadership has guided the institute to several accolades, including the International Green College Award and the title of Best Culinary School of the Year.

Throughout this journey, Prof. Mirza’s work has been underscored by a deep commitment to sustainability, innovation, and academic excellence. Collaborations with global leaders, the authorship of specialized cookbooks for hospitality students, and continued contributions to the advancement of the hospitality sector are among Prof. Mirza’s many achievements.

Additionally, training at the renowned Beau Rivage Palace Hotel in Lausanne, a beacon of hospitality excellence, refined Prof. Mirza’s skills and offered invaluable insight into the highest global standards in the industry.

Each chapter of Prof. Mirza’s professional journey reaffirms a steadfast belief in the transformative power of education and a continued dedication to shaping the future of hospitality.