In advance of next month’s opening on May 15, Rosewood Mandarina in Nayarit, Mexico, has assembled an executive leadership team. This team of industry leaders—which is led by managing director Juan Carlos Cardona Aquino—has been involved from the project’s inception, directing pre-opening operations and curating an unparalleled guest experience, according to the company.
“We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our executive team as we prepare to unveil our Rosewood Mandarina,” said Aquino in a statement. “Each team member brings unparalleled expertise and a shared dedication to celebrating the rich heritage of this unique region in Mexico. Their contributions will be pivotal in ensuring that Rosewood Mandarina exceeds its promise of delivering an extraordinary experience while setting new standards of excellence and authenticity.”
The team includes Tom Puntel as cluster director of sales and marketing; Felipe Tapia as director of food & beverage; Jose Vicente Mascaros as executive chef; Marcos Rodrigues as director of rooms; and Aristides Carrillo as spa director.
With more than 25 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Tom Puntel leads commercial strategies for Rosewood Mandarina and Rosewood Mayakoba. He joined Rosewood Hotel Group in November 2023 as cluster director of sales and marketing, coming on to support the established Rosewood Mayakoba and to lead commercial efforts for the upcoming Rosewood Mandarina.
Felipe Tapia joins Rosewood Mandarina with more than a decade of international experience and a passion for culinary artistry. Tapia has led dining operations at properties such as The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, W Shanghai The Bund, and The Sanya EDITION.
Meanwhile, Mascaros brings 20 years of international experience to his position. Throughout his career, Mascaros has honed his expertise at prestigious properties worldwide. His tenure with Rosewood began in 2016 at Rosewood Phnom Penh in Cambodia, where he played an instrumental role in its pre-opening success as chef de cuisine.
With more than 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Rodrigues steps into his role as with an track record of service excellence. His leadership at prestigious properties such as Four Seasons Nevis, Amanyara in Turks & Caicos, and Laucala Island Resort in Fiji has consistently elevated operational standards and guest experiences.
Seasoned wellness expert Carrillo brings two decades of luxury hospitality experience. His transformative roles at The Ritz-Carlton, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, and Conrad by Hilton have earned widespread acclaim, with his spa concepts receiving multiple prestigious awards.