Much has happened since the South Florida Business Journal last profiled honorees for its Power Leaders in Hospitality list. The world suffered through the pandemic, which effectively shut down the entire sector. The closures meant protracted economic losses across the travel, tourism, lodging and related hospitality infrastructure.
Today, many players – from hoteliers, airlines and cruise lines, to the airports, seaports, restaurateurs, event promoters and tourism and convention bureaus that lure business and leisure travelers alike – are riding the rising tide of recovery.
Those are the faces of this year’s Power Leaders in Hospitality. They have been persistent, collaborative, and driven to rebuild the sector that generates billions of dollars in economic impact and employs thousands across South Florida. They have proven themselves among the most important of the region’s leaders – executives whose commitment helped keep the region in business and our economy a national model of economic resiliency. Because of them, South Florida today is open for business.
Tim Petrillo
Founder and CEO, The Restaurant People
Petrillo has created such enduring venues as Yolo and O Lounge, S3, Boatyard, Rooftop @1WLO, TRP Taste, Java & Jam, and most recently Rosa Sky and Giselle, and the planned Nubé atop the Hilton Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale.
Birthplace: Boca Raton
Education: Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
Biggest change facing hospitality: The changing workforce and Florida’s softening travel demand
I’m inspired by: Disruptors’ resolve to launch life-changing ideas that dramatically impact our world
Professionally, I’m most satisfied: When we see our guests really embrace one of our concepts
What keeps me up nights: Trying to be ahead of the trends but not too far ahead that the idea will not resonate with guests
Personal note: I am trying to convince my daughters to stay away from the restaurant business.
To unwind, I: Like to run and be active
www.therestaurantpeople.com, 954-523-0000
