For over 25 years, Saro Spadaro has been a key figure in the evolution of hospitality and real estate in the Caribbean. As the driving force behind The Maho Group, headquartered in Sint Maarten, he has shaped a comprehensive business model that combines luxury resorts, residential projects, and tailored services. His entrepreneurial path, which began after graduating in Business Administration from Bocconi University, is marked by long-term vision, operational consistency, and a deep-rooted sense of responsibility.
Today, his focus is turning toward innovation. He sees artificial intelligence not just as a tool, but as a strategic force capable of transforming how the hospitality industry engages with guests. In his view, AI brings both opportunity and risk: while it opens new ways to personalize and streamline service, those who fail to embrace it (particularly in their digital customer interfaces) may quickly fall behind.
Saro Spadaro believes that the sector must evolve by enhancing the interactivity and responsiveness of its digital presence. New-generation language models, in particular, offer enormous potential in supporting customer journeys. From personalized suggestions to more intuitive service options, these technologies can help anticipate guest needs and simplify their choices. But implementation must be handled with care: data security, transparency, and actual utility are essential.
Still, Saro Spadaro is clear on one point: people remain at the heart of hospitality. AI should complement the human touch, not replace it. The guest experience, he maintains, depends on human connection. Artificial intelligence can make teams more effective, helping them better understand and support each guest, but it is the balance between people and technology that defines lasting value. From predictive maintenance to energy efficiency, smarter cleaning protocols, and inventory optimization, AI-powered tools can bring measurable improvements to both guest satisfaction and sustainability goals.
His leadership style reflects this pragmatic and grounded approach. His response during the 2017 Hurricane Irma disaster is a clear example: he remained on-site in Sint Maarten, coordinating evacuations, managing emergency logistics, and leading the rebuilding process. It’s a testament to a leadership model built on presence, clarity, and action. Even in the most difficult moments.
As The Maho Group continues to grow internationally, Saro Spadaro remains committed to a vision where innovation and human value move together. For him, entrepreneurship is not just about strategy: it’s about coherence. The alignment between vision, communication and execution defines both his reputation and his roadmap for the future of global hospitality.
