In an insightful conversation, Jorge Palou, Director of Sales at the Holiday Inn Express, shared his experiences and the journey that led him and the team to achieve the prestigious award for Sales of the Year in the Latin America and Caribbean region. His story is one of passion, teamwork, and dedication, rooted in his family’s history within Puerto Rico’s tourism industry.

A Legacy of Passion for Hospitality

Jorge’s journey into hospitality began in his childhood, influenced by his father’s work in the Puerto Rico Tourism Company during the 1970s. Growing up in this environment, Jorge developed a deep passion for the tourism sector. This passion translated into action when, during his university years, he took up a summer position at the Puerto Rico Tourism Company in 1993. This marked the beginning of a long and successful career in tourism, marketing, and sales, which culminated in his current leadership roles.

Reflecting on his career, Jorge emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the ever-changing trends in Puerto Rico’s tourism industry. With decades of experience, he has witnessed significant transformations in the industry, especially as Puerto Rico continues to expand its reach into international markets. “We are now focusing on diversifying our market beyond the United States to include the Caribbean, Latin America, and even Europe,” Jorge explains, highlighting the strategic shift in Puerto Rico’s tourism efforts.

An Award-Winning Team Effort

Jorge’s recent accolade, the Elevate Sales Director of the Year award for Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean in the essentials hotels category, stands as a testament to his and his team’s hard work. He attributes this success to the collective effort of a strong sales team and the strategic vision of their asset manager, Gonzalo Gracia. Their ability to adapt to market conditions and develop a comprehensive sales plan allowed them to overcome challenges during a time of uncertainty in the industry.

“We didn’t just sell rooms; we focused on finding the right clients and negotiating in a way that made sense for both parties,” says Jorge. The team’s efforts in targeting corporate and government clients, including partnerships with federal agencies and international companies, have been instrumental in their success.

Looking Ahead: New Projects and Expansions

As the industry begins to normalize post-pandemic, Jorge and his team are not slowing down. Their focus is on expanding their reach into new markets and growing their corporate and government client base. He is particularly excited about the ongoing renovations and expansions, which will feature state-of-the-art meeting rooms and event spaces equipped with the latest technology. These upgrades are set to attract more business travelers and events, further solidifying their position in the market.

When asked about the future, Jorge remains optimistic. “We are committed to keeping Puerto Rico at the forefront of the Caribbean’s tourism industry,” he states confidently. His vision for the company aligns with his passion for the industry: continuing to grow and provide top-tier service while fostering new business relationships.

A Word of Advice for Aspiring Hoteliers

For those looking to build a career in the hospitality industry, Jorge offers valuable advice: “Never give up. Stay focused on your goals, and eventually, the time will come when you achieve them.” His journey from a summer intern to a sales director in the industry is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion.

As Jorge and his team look to the future, they are ready to take on new challenges and continue making strides in the ever-evolving world of hospitality. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, they are well-positioned for continued success in the years to come.

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