Raul Leal is the chief executive officer of SH Hotels & Resorts, a brand management company and affiliate of global private investment firm Starwood Capital Group. SH operates 1 Hotels, Baccarat Hotels, and Treehouse Hotels, with 14 properties under management and 16 in development. As SH expands its global presence, Leal continues to focus first on people and planet.

Over his 40-year career, Leal has proven a natural entrepreneur and visionary, responsible for some of the world’s most iconic luxury and lifestyle brands. Known for his astute design sense, clear communication, operational excellence, and gift for cultivating an energetic and inclusive culture, Leal is a celebrated leader—and has held among the industry’s most prestigious roles. His vast experience as both owner and operator led him to become president and partner at Tecton Hospitality, founder of Desires Hotels, and for the past decade, CEO of Virgin Hotels, recruited directly by Richard Branson to launch and grow the brand.

Leal’s proven track record identifying nimble, sophisticated tactics that drive positive change is embedded into the SH organization. He is a true mentor, driven by his commitment to championing others, and revitalizing communities in swift, smart ways that achieve all the good we can.