Business Leaders interview: Jairo Torres Villicana

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

I am a dedicated family man living in Cabo, Mexico, alongside my wonderful wife, Sandy, and our two beloved dogs, Joya and Rummy. My journey in the hospitality industry spans over 30 years, beginning as a dishwasher, busboy, and bellboy at the renowned Hotel St. Claire in San Jose, California. Today, I lead a consultancy agency that specializes in lifestyle products, focusing on optimizing their sales and marketing cycles. In addition to my consulting work, I am a published author and a keynote speaker, passionate about sharing insights and strategies drawn from my extensive experience in the field.

What motivates you in your work and what do you find most fulfilling about being a business leader?

I thrive on being disruptive and thinking outside the box to develop innovative marketing and sales strategies. I find great joy in mentoring emerging leaders and sharing my personal journey to inspire and motivate the next generation.

How did you develop your leadership skills and how would you define your leadership style?

I have learned invaluable lessons from great leaders like Chip Conley, Benjamin Malmquist, Phil Baxter, and Ernesto Luna. They taught me the importance of prioritizing the human element in all endeavors and the significance of leading by example.  

Innovating is crucial in our very diverse industry. How do you stay ahead of trends and incorporate them into your global strategy?

 To stay ahead of trends in our diverse industry, I prioritize continuous learning and engagement with thought leaders. I believe in the value of empathy and leading by example. By fostering a collaborative culture within my consultancy, I encourage innovative thinking and diverse perspectives. This approach allows us to effectively integrate emerging trends into our global strategy, ensuring we remain relevant and connected with our audiences.  

What is or are your biggest career achievement(s)?

I have been fortunate to receive awards throughout my career, including DOSM of the Year for Pacifica Host Hotels and Joie de Vivre Hospitality in California. However, my greatest achievement lies in my unwavering belief in what was possible—even when I started as a dishwasher, bussing tables, and carrying luggage while barely speaking English during my time in the USA. This journey has shaped my perspective and fueled my drive to succeed.  Have you achieved everything you wanted in your career so far? 

 I still have a long road ahead of me. While I’ve achieved a lot, I believe that no matter my age, there are always new goals to pursue and milestones to reach. The journey of growth and achievement is ongoing, and I'm excited for what lies ahead.  

How important is personal development to your success, and how do you approach it?

One of the most important principles is to always keep searching and learning. This includes reading extensively, listening to podcasts, and enjoying audiobooks while exercising. Meditation is also a key aspect of personal development, as it fosters mindfulness and reflection. Continuous growth is essential for both personal and professional success.

How do you prioritise tasks when everything feels like a priority?

If it’s not documented and scheduled, it’s simply not happening. Clear plans and timelines are essential for turning intentions into reality. Writing things down helps ensure accountability and focus, allowing us to achieve our goals effectively. What does success mean for you as a business leader?

Success is deeply personal and varies for everyone. For me, success means going to bed each night knowing I accomplished my goals while positively impacting the lives of others. It’s about making meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impression, no matter how small.