The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) has awarded its coveted Hotelier of the Year award to South Florida hospitality leader Eduardo Fernandez, who also was inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame in a ceremony held at the Opal Grand Resort in Delray Beach,
“What fun we had honoring Eduardo for his lifetime of commitment to hospitality, including more than two decades as a leader in the great state of Florida,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “Eduardo’s energy, leadership style, and commitment to his team and his guests are what make such great experiences that keep guests coming back. Congratulations to Eduardo, we are so proud of you!”
The Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala pays tribute to men and women from across the Sunshine State for their remarkable work in hospitality. The Hall of Fame distinction is reserved for those who have dedicated decades to providing excellent service and leadership in hospitality.
“I am humbled, honored, and surprised to be inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame as the 2023 Hotelier of the Year,” said Fernandez, General Manager of Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. “We have so many great hoteliers in Florida that are deserving of such recognition, so it makes it even more special to me. I have spent over 20 years in Florida doing what I love in an industry that contributes so much to our state’s economy and offers great career opportunities. I am extremely lucky and thankful to have such a great team at Margaritaville and to work in a fabulous resort that offers such a unique experience full of fun and escapism.”
Fernandez has more than 25 years of leadership as general manager and in corporate roles across many brands and management companies, including Davidson Hospitality Group, Sonesta Hotels & Resorts, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. He has held many board positions with prestigious organizations such as the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, FRLA, and the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Alliance.
Fernandez currently serves as a board member for the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Hollywood Beach Business Association.#opalgrandresortdelraybeach #hospitality #floridaresorts #eduardofernandez #halloffame #FRLA
Photo: L-R: FRLA Chairman of the Board John Horne; Hall of Fame Winner/ Hotelier of the Year Eduardo Fernandez; FRLA President & CEO Carol Dover. Credit: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association