The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) Partnering 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. As Chief Operating Officer at IHP Hospitality he is responsible for a portfolio that includes both branded properties and independent ones, including some well-known names such as Marriott and Best Western. 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 committed to developing talent and driving operational excellence.
Receiving the ALIS CALA Rising Star Award, is not only an honor, but it is also a powerful reminder that hospitality goes beyond a simple business. It is about heritage, responsibility and passion. I am proud to lead the next generation of our industry while helping grow our family’s business. As we invest in our employees and embrace innovation, I am confident that the future of hospitality is shaped by purposeful leadership and a commitment to employee and guest experiences. Ruiz Doreste
It’s rare, and incredibly rewarding, to encounter a true ‘born leader,’ and Néstor Ruiz exemplifies that spirit. 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 works on. 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. Bill Clegg Regional Director of Development for BWH Hotel Group, Caribbean
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 center of Mayaguez in PR, combined with his operational expertise and commitment to his community and team, represent the best of the new generation of hospitality leaders. We are honored to recognize his accomplishments and thankful to ALIS CALA for partnering with us to highlight rising talent in the region.
ALIS CALA’s Rising Star Award, which shines the spotlight on the future of our industry, is an important part of this leading gathering of hotel investors. 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. Jonathon S. Zink is the COO of Northstar’s BHN Group.
It’s the 15th year ISHC has partnered with The BHN Group to recognize talented young leaders in the Caribbean & Latin American Regions. 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
- Does or has worked in a field related to 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.
Before voting for the winner, respected executives from the Caribbean and Latin America screened a shortlist nomination forms.
About ISHC
International Society of Hospitality Consultants, a global resource for hospitality expertise, is represented by more than 250 of the world’s most respected professionals. They are spread across six continents. ISHC’s members are experts in 50 different functional areas. They also have specialized expertise in all segments of the hospitality business. ISHC is committed to promoting professional consulting standards and best practices in the hospitality industry. Candidates are subjected to a thorough screening process that ensures all ISHC members possess a high level of integrity, as well as the experience, knowledge, and training necessary to make sound decisions on issues facing the industry. The ISHC website provides additional information about the membership and organization process as well as a directory. ishc.com.
