The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) In partnership with ALIS Caribbean and Latin America (ALIS CALA) presented Néstor J. Ruiz Doreste, Chief Operations Officer of IHP Hospitality with the prestigious ALIS CALA Rising Star Award.
Ruiz Doreste, a third generation hospitality executive, is an expert in the field. He is the Chief Operating Officer of IHP Hospitality. His portfolio includes branded and independent hotels, such as Marriott, Best Western, and others. Néstor brings a distinctive leadership perspective, shaped by his military training at the United States Military Academy at West Point and academic foundation from the University of Pittsburgh. He is dedicated to developing talent, driving operations excellence, and expanding IHP Hospitality’s legacy in Puerto Rico.
Ruiz Doreste commented on his award:
“To receive the ALIS CALA Rising Star Award, is not only an honor, but it is also a reminder that hospitality goes beyond a job. It is about legacy and passion. I’m proud of my role in growing our family-owned business and leading the next generations within our industry. “As we embrace innovation and make investments in our people, I am convinced that the future of hospitality is shaped by purposeful leadership and a commitment to employee and guest experiences.”
“It’s rare, and incredibly rewarding, to encounter a true ‘born leader,’ and Néstor Ruiz exemplifies that spirit,” commented Bill Clegg, Regional Director of Development, Caribbean for BWH Hotel Group. “As Chief Operations Officer for IHP Hospitality, Néstor leads with a combination of discipline, vision, and heart. He inspires others and elevates each project he touches. His leadership of the ambitious ‘Square District’ revitalization project in Mayaguez reflects not just a commitment to operational excellence, but also a deep dedication to community impact. At just 30 years old, Néstor has already achieved a remarkable career’s worth of success, fueled by the values and determination he cultivated at West Point. “I am delighted to see him receiving this well-deserved award and look forward watching his leadership journey unfold.”
ISHC CEO Andrea Belfanti commented, “It was a pleasure getting to know Néstor and to recognize his incredible leadership with the 2025 ALIS CALA Rising Star Award. His vision to revitalize the historic core in Mayaguez PR, combined with his operational expertise and deep commitment towards his team and the community, represents the best of the future generation of hospitality leaders. “We are honored to celebrate his success and grateful to ALIS CALA as a partner to showcase rising talent throughout the region.”
“The ALIS CALA Rising Star Award is a key feature of this market-leading gathering of the hotel investment community, as it shines a spotlight on our industry’s future,” said Jonathon S. Zink, COO of The BHN Group by Northstar. “Néstor’s dedication to developing the future of hospitality is admirable and makes Néstor a dynamic ambassador for Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and beyond. Congratulations to Néstor on this prestigious achievement and very best wishes on his journey of making a difference.”
This is the fifteenth time that ISHC has partnered with The BHN Group to recognize talented young leaders in the Caribbean region and Latin America. Néstor J. Ruiz Doreste was honored with the award during the plenary session of ALIS CALA, held at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida. Although Néstor was unable to attend due to the impending arrival of his first child, the award was proudly accepted on his behalf by his sister, Claire Ruiz Doreste, CFO of IHP Hospitality.
Nominations must meet the following criteria.
– Born on or after April 30 1990, and is 35 years old or younger
– Is or has worked in hospitality.
– Recognized by hospitality leaders as a rising star
– Has a minimum two year experience on the market and is currently working or living in the Caribbean.
The shortlist of nominees was reviewed by respected executives in the Caribbean and Latin America before the vote.
