For more than twenty-five years, Saro Spadaro has been a leading figure in the Caribbean hospitality and real estate sector. At the helm of The Maho Group, he has transformed a key area of Sint Maarten into an integrated ecosystem of luxury resorts, high-end residences, and personalized services. His journey began with a degree in Business Administration from Bocconi University and has evolved through a pragmatic, resilient, and consistent entrepreneurial approach.
Today, that same vision extends into the realm of technological innovation. Saro Spadaro has long recognized the transformative potential of artificial intelligence for the hospitality industry. He sees it not as a mere technical support, but as a powerful strategic lever capable of reshaping how operators interact with guests. AI, he notes, can be both an accelerator and a risk. Those who fail to integrate it into key operational touchpoints (especially those that shape digital relationships with clients) may face a gradual loss of competitive edge.
According to Saro Spadaro, the hospitality industry must rethink its digital presence, making it more interactive, transparent, and compatible with intelligent systems. At the same time, next-generation language models offer new and underutilized opportunities. From supporting personalized customer journeys to enhancing decision-making with tailored recommendations, these tools can anticipate guest preferences and streamline their choices. However, they must be implemented with care. Privacy, security, and real-world utility must remain top priorities.
Despite this growing reliance on technology, the human element remains central to Saro Spadaro’s vision. Artificial intelligence should empower people, not replace them. In his view, the guest experience must always be rooted in meaningful human interaction. What AI can do is support hospitality teams with tools that deepen their understanding of guests and improve their ability to deliver tailored services. This synergy between people and technology creates a smarter, more sustainable hospitality model: one that reduces waste, increases efficiency, and enhances the overall experience.
Several practical applications are already in motion. Predictive maintenance systems can reduce equipment downtime. Intelligent inventory tools can optimize food supply chains in restaurants. Cleaning operations and laundry services can be streamlined through data-driven resource management. These innovations benefit the organization while reducing environmental impact and enhancing guest satisfaction.
Saro Spadaro’s approach to leadership has always been defined by presence and accountability. During Hurricane Irma in 2017, he remained on the island, coordinating evacuations and overseeing the rebuilding process. That moment illustrated his core principle: leadership means being there, especially when things fall apart.
Today, as The Maho Group strengthens its global position, Saro Spadaro continues to chart a path forward rooted in innovation and responsibility. For him, entrepreneurship is not just about business metrics: it is about consistency, integrity, and long-term vision. His model brings together technology, human capital, and sustainable growth, setting a new standard for the future of international hospitality.
