The Dominican hotel chain is entering a new phase with a renewed governance model, a structure designed to align with the current needs of the market.
Santo Domingo. - Hodelpa Hotels, Hodelpa Hotels, the Dominican hotel group with the strongest presence in the country’s tourist destinations, is advancing into a new phase by appointing Ángel Hernández as CEO and Jessica Aja as Executive Vice President. This move is part of the company’s new corporate governance model, introduced as it celebrates 35 years of operations. The model includes a Board of Directors chaired by its founding partner, Edmundo Aja.
According to the hotel chain, the redesign of its management model “is part of the necessary changes to address the challenges posed by the dynamics of tourism development and the company's growth. Since its establishment as a hotel operator in 1990, Hodelpa has grown to manage 10 hotels and is preparing to open its new project, Xanadu Resorts and Residence, in 2025.”
The Board of Directors will contribute the expertise and experience of its members to management while overseeing operational, financial, sales, and marketing strategies. It will be chaired by Edmundo Aja as President, with José Hernández as Vice President, and members including Martín Cedepa, Michel Abreu, Ángel Hernández, Jessica Aja, and Arlene Hernández.
Ángel Hernández, CEO, stated, “This marks a new chapter for Hodelpa, and I am thrilled to have the responsibility of leading an exceptional team that will turn every challenge into an opportunity for growth, successfully achieving the strategic goals we have set for ourselves. Hodelpa is a benchmark of hospitality and exceptional guest service. I am grateful for the trust our founder has placed in me to continue his legacy. The past seven years working alongside him have been a period of immense personal and professional growth for me. His guidance and mentorship from the Board of Directors will be of great value to our organization.”
Jessica Aja, Executive Vice President, added, “This change in our leadership structure reflects over 30 years of growth and success, signaling a new stage of consolidation and opportunity. We are confident that under this renewed leadership model, we will continue to strengthen the vision of our founder, Mr. Edmundo Aja, of passionate hospitality with a team dedicated to serving with love. At the same time, we remain at the forefront of the hotel industry, always focused on exceeding our guests’ expectations. We proudly showcase the essence of Dominican hospitality and the most outstanding qualities of Dominican culture in our tourism offerings.”
Ángel Hernández, the new Chief Executive Officer, brings over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having held leadership positions in prestigious hotel chains both nationally and internationally. Throughout his career, he has excelled in leading high-performance teams, establishing himself as a benchmark in operations management. His passion and dedication remain key drivers for achieving significant milestones within the company and meeting its strategic objectives.
Jessica Aja, Executive Vice President, has been part of the company since 2015, holding key roles that have driven the organization’s growth and development. As Marketing Director for over two years, she has become a prominent figure in the tourism industry. With her expanded role, she will continue to bring her vision and leadership to help achieve the company’s strategic goals.
With this new leadership model, Hodelpa reaffirms its commitment to innovation and delivering memorable experiences to all its clients, solidifying its position as a hospitality leader in the Dominican Republic while growing in synergy with the nation.
About Hodelpa
Hodelpa Hotels is the Dominican Republic’s leading hotel company in terms of presence across the country’s top tourist destinations. Founded in 1992, it currently offers over 1,600 rooms in key locations such as Santo Domingo, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and Juan Dolio. The chain provides a diverse range of properties, including urban and beach hotels, catering to a wide variety of guests—from business travelers to leisure and adventure-seeking tourists.
Hodelpa stands out for its blend of modern comfort, a passion for hospitality, and authentic Dominican charm. Its offerings include gourmet dining, spa treatments, and facilities for meetings and events. The company also prioritizes social responsibility, actively engaging in environmental and community initiatives.