Our Team
Our team collectively boasts over 100 years of experience in hospitality management, encompassing a diverse global portfolio from destinations including Bermuda, Hong Kong, and Tuscany. Throughout our extensive careers, we have successfully overseen operations at world-renowned properties such as the Mandarin Oriental in New York, Hong Kong, and Las Vegas, the Langham Chicago, and exclusive hideaway destinations including Elbow Beach in Bermuda, the St Regis Deer Valley, and Castello di Cassoulet in Tuscany.
Edward M. Shapard, Founder and CEO
Edward Shapard, Founder & CEO, brings over 25 years of specialized international experience in the hospitality industry, covering hotel operations, food and beverage management, sales, marketing, revenue management, spa and wellness, property development, condominiums, homeowner associations, and fractional ownership developments. Throughout his career, he has operated leading five-star properties for top luxury brands in major business destinations and played a key role in the development, opening, and management of fractional ownership projects from Tuscany to Kauai.
Mr. Shapard is recognized as an industry authority, having served as a founding member of The Bermuda Tourism Board and contributing to the country's National Tourism Plan. Notably, he led the repositioning of prominent assets such as the Mandarin Oriental New York and The Dominick Hotel (formerly Trump SoHo Hotel). His real estate expertise includes financial modeling for development initiatives and the administration of multiple homeowner associations, with projects spanning Tuscany, Hawaii, and the Rocky Mountains.
James Rodgers, Vice President of Operations
With over 23 years of leadership experience, he has built a distinguished career as Vice President of Operations in the Engineering and Facilities Industry, specializing in hospitality operations for luxury mixed-use developments. He expertly oversees multimillion-dollar projects, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and guest experience at every stage.
He excels at implementing operational protocols, driving sustainability initiatives, and integrating innovative technologies to maximize efficiency and asset value. Known for his strategic, hands-on leadership, he inspires cross-functional teams and fosters strong partnerships with stakeholders. His expertise includes contract negotiation, budget management, capital planning, and risk mitigation.
Widely regarded as a visionary leader and trusted advisor, he consistently delivers results in competitive markets while cultivating a culture of continuous improvement, guest-focused service, and operational excellence.
Chef Luis Pous: A Culinary Visionary
Chef Luis Pous, originally from Cuba, has distinguished himself as an eminent leader within the international culinary sphere. He has presided over several of the world’s foremost dining establishments, notably including the nationally acclaimed The Dining Room at Little Palm Island.
Chef Pous is the founder of El Takoy, an innovative, Hawaiian-inspired street food concept, with prominent locations such as The Dominick Hotel in New York.
Before the inception of this entrepreneurial endeavor, Chef Pous accrued close to two decades of experience managing renowned kitchens, including those at the Mandarin Oriental in Miami, Turnberry Isle in Aventura, Florida, and Hotel Plaza Athénée in New York City.
His career exemplifies an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence and the continuous elevation of the gastronomic experience.
