ALMA San Juan, Old San Juan’s premier luxury boutique hotel, announces the appointment of Al Pérez as General Manager. With over two decades of international hospitality expertise, Pérez will lead the sophisticated property located in the historic Pisos de Don Juan building.
This marks a welcomed return to Puerto Rico for Pérez, who has previously served in leadership roles on the island, successfully elevating guest satisfaction metrics during his tenure at another luxury property in San Juan.
“I am honored to join the exceptional team at ALMA San Juan,” said Pérez. This property is the perfect combination of Puerto Rican culture and modern luxury. I will focus on improving the guest experience by providing personalized service and paying attention to details. This will ensure that each visitor experiences the warmth and hospitality of ALMA.
Pérez brings impressive credentials to ALMA San Juan, having held leadership positions with InterContinental Hotels Group, Hyatt, and Marriott across seven countries, including the United States, Mexico, Venezuela, Panama, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Honduras. His varied experience includes managing luxury hotels in San Juan and Puerto Rico, as well as the Riviera Maya.
“The smallest details create the most significant memories,” said Pérez. “In the hospitality industry of today, guests do not just remember the beauty of a space, but how it made them feel. When you serve others with your whole soul ‘con toda mi alma’ you create experiences that resonate long after checkout.”
At ALMA San Juan, Pérez will lead the overall hotel operation for the 56-room property. The hotel features acclaimed culinary venues including Andaluz and Mar y Rosa restaurant by celebrated Chef José Mendin, both with their distinctive bar concepts, each managed by their respective teams under Pérez’s leadership. The property is also home to The Café at ALMA, which transforms from a daytime coffee retreat to a sophisticated evening spot.
Eric Berman (Managing Partner, Vivant Capital) said: “Al’s extensive experience working with international brands and boutique hotels, coupled with his prior success in Puerto Rico make him the ideal leader of ALMA San Juan.” His passion for authentic service and creating unforgettable guest experiences perfectly complements the vision we have of sophisticated luxury with an distinctly Puerto Rican heart. Under Al’s leadership we are confident ALMA will redefine the hospitality excellence of Old San Juan.”
A native of Venezuela who began his hospitality career in the United States, Pérez is a graduate of the University of Tampa and the Hotel Management Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida. Throughout his distinguished career, he has received numerous accolades, including IHG North America’s Best Yield & Revenue Management Achievement.