KSL and Rodina’s Tortuga Resorts Names New CEO
KSL Capital and Rodina’s Tortuga Resorts launched its Caribbean push in June with its $2 billion purchase of Playa’s real estate portfolio in the Caribbean and Mexico.
Now, it seems to be aiming higher, with a new CEO to lead the charge.
Tortuga Resorts has appointed seasoned hospitality and private-equity executive Leo Schlesinger as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership move for the fast-growing Caribbean and Mexico luxury resort platform.
Schlesinger brings more than three decades of operating and executive experience to Tortuga, including international leadership roles in London, New York, Santiago, São Paulo and Mexico. His career began in banking with Citi and Cigna before transitioning into more than 20 years of private equity, where he led portfolio companies and built multi-market, brand-partnered operating platforms.
He most recently served as Group CEO of Norte 19, one of Latin America’s largest publicly traded hotel owners and operators, overseeing a portfolio of 154 hotels across several countries and working closely with major global hospitality brands such as Marriott and City Express. Prior to that, he led Aliat Universidades, transforming the PE-backed education company into one of Mexico’s largest higher-education systems by integrating 16 schools, 51 campuses and implementing a scalable digital operations strategy.
“Tortuga’s strength has always come from its people – our dedicated teams, trusted partners and the incredible communities we serve across Mexico and the Caribbean,” Schlesinger said. “I’m thrilled to work alongside our brand partners and property teams to continue innovating and providing the resources to help deliver exceptional guest experiences and drive long-term value across our platform. Together, I am confident that we’ll set new benchmarks for excellence and create meaningful experiences for our guests and communities.”
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Tortuga. The company recently entered an agreement to acquire a portfolio of 15 all-inclusive resorts from Hyatt Hotels Corporation across Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica — a transaction that would significantly expand its regional footprint.
The company has also strengthened its leadership over the past year, including the hiring of Hans Schroeder as Chief Financial Officer in Dec. 2024.
Schlesinger’s background also includes board roles at firms such as KIO Networks, Amanco, Masisa and Plycem. He currently serves as a Trustee of the University of London, and has been a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, chairing the Global Agenda Council on Sustainable Business in Davos. He is a former president of the Young Presidents’ Organization chapter in Mexico and has held positions with multiple NGOs focused on education and social mobility. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Business and an MBA from London Business School.
Formed by KSL Capital Partners and Rodina, Tortuga Resorts focuses on developing and operating premium beachfront destinations across the Caribbean and Latin America.
