Leo Schlesinger Takes Charge as CEO of Tortuga Resorts for Transformation

Leo Schlesinger Takes Charge as CEO of Tortuga Resorts

Tortuga Resorts, a noted platform in the real estate and asset management sphere concentrating on luxury beachfront hospitality across Mexico and the Caribbean, has made a significant leadership change by appointing Leo Schlesinger as its new Chief Executive Officer. This transition comes at a pivotal moment for Tortuga, as it seeks to capitalize on its recent growth momentum and expand its influence in the hospitality sector.

Mr. Schlesinger, who has more than three decades of hands-on experience in various aspects of business operations and executive leadership, is expected to drive Tortuga's strategic vision forward. His impressive career spans several major cities including London, New York, and São Paulo, where he has held pivotal roles in banking, financial services, and private equity. His tenure at Norte 19, one of Latin America's largest hotel operators, equipped him with a robust understanding of managing expansive portfolios—an asset he plans to leverage at Tortuga Resorts.

Under Schlesinger's leadership, Norte 19 managed a robust collection of 154 hotels, collaborating closely with renowned global hotel brands like Marriott. His previous success at Aliat Universidades, where he transformed the institution into one of Mexico's leading higher education providers, showcases his capability to scale businesses and streamline operations effectively.

Vision for Exceptional Guest Experiences

“Tortuga’s strength has always come from its people – our dedicated teams, trusted partners, and the incredible communities we serve across Mexico and the Caribbean,” Schlesinger expressed. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration with brand partners and property teams to deliver unforgettable guest experiences while maintaining the long-term value of the platform.

The recent agreement to acquire a portfolio of 15 all-inclusive resorts from Hyatt Hotels Corporation signifies Tortuga's aggressive strategy for expansion. This acquisition, which spans multiple countries including the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, places Tortuga in a robust position for future growth. Schlesinger’s leadership is anticipated to enhance operational capabilities and foster improvements within the organization. In December 2024, this included the appointment of Hans Schroeder as Chief Financial Officer, underlining Tortuga’s commitment to building a solid foundation for financial and operational success.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

In addition to his operational expertise, Schlesinger has been a board member for several notable organizations, including KIO Networks, which is recognized as Mexico's leading cloud services provider. His global outlook was further affirmed when he was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, where he also chaired the Global Agenda Council on Sustainable Business at the esteemed annual meeting in Davos.

Notably, he has actively engaged with various NGOs, contributing to causes focused on education and social mobility. Schlesinger’s academic qualifications, which include a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Business, alongside an MBA from London Business School, provide him with a well-rounded perspective on managing diverse teams and fostering innovation in service delivery.

Final Thoughts

Tortuga Resorts is not merely a hospitality brand; it is a commitment to delivering unique, culturally rich experiences across its locations. With Schlesinger at the helm, the brand is poised to set new standards in the hospitality industry, not only by expanding its footprint but also by prioritizing exceptional service and sustainable development. The collaboration between local communities and tasteful tourist experiences will ensure that Tortuga Resorts continues to thrive and remain a beacon of luxury in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Stay tuned as Tortuga Resorts embarks on this new journey under Schlesinger's leadership, aiming to redefine luxury hospitality while enriching the lives of guests and locals alike.