Raul Leal is Chief Executive Officer of Starwood Hotels, the global hospitality company behind the award-winning 1 Hotels, Baccarat Hotels, and Treehouse Hotels brands. He leads the company’s worldwide growth strategy, operations, development, and brand platform, overseeing more than 40 hotels open and in development across some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

With more than four decades of experience as both a hotel owner and operator, Leal is widely recognized as one of the hospitality industry's most influential leaders. Since joining Starwood Hotels, he has spearheaded significant global expansion while strengthening the company’s commitment to luxury, wellness, sustainability, and purpose-driven hospitality. Under his leadership, Starwood Hotels continues to redefine modern luxury through brands that deliver exceptional experiences while creating positive impact for people, communities, and the planet.

Known for building iconic brands, high-performing cultures, and innovative business platforms, Leal has consistently transformed organizations through a combination of strategic vision, operational excellence, and entrepreneurial leadership. Prior to Starwood Hotels, he held senior leadership positions across the hospitality industry, including serving as the founding CEO of Virgin Hotels, where he led the launch and expansion of the brand for more than a decade.
Beyond his corporate leadership, Leal is a respected industry voice and mentor. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and has served on Cornell University’s Boards for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, helping shape the next generation of business leaders and innovators.