Warlito Cruz Jr. named among Hozpitality's Best 30 Most Popular Finance Leaders in the Middle East for 2023

Warlito Cruz Jr., a highly accomplished finance professional with an impressive track record, has been honored as one of Hozpitality's Best 30 Most Popular Finance Leaders in the Middle East for 2023. With a wealth of experience spanning 16 years in the UAE, Warlito has established himself as a prominent figure in the finance industry, particularly in the dynamic realm of the hospitality sector.

Throughout his career, Warlito has gained invaluable pre-opening hotel experience, working with renowned hotel brands and contributing to the successful launch of multiple establishments. His tenure with Shangri-La/Traders Hotel in Abu Dhabi, as part of the pre-opening team, provided him with a unique insight into the intricate financial aspects of establishing a new hotel. Further showcasing his expertise, he played a pivotal role in the opening of a hotel in Yas Island Abu Dhabi, coinciding with the inaugural Formula Grand Prix in the UAE, as part of the Aldar Hospitality team. These early experiences laid a solid foundation for his subsequent achievements and shaped his ability to navigate the complexities of finance management in the hospitality industry.

As Warlito's career progressed, his dedication and exceptional skills led to remarkable opportunities. Joining Fairmont Hotels Abu Dhabi proved to be a significant turning point, where he further honed his finance and accounting capabilities. Recognized for his outstanding performance, he was promoted to the position of Chief Accountant, a testament to his commitment to excellence and continuous professional growth.

Embracing new challenges and seeking fresh avenues to expand his knowledge, Warlito then transitioned to Fairmont Dubai. As the Complex Chief Accountant, he successfully oversaw the financial operations of the hotel, apartment, and office business segments. His strategic mindset and meticulous financial analysis played a crucial role in driving the profitability and growth of the company.

Currently, Warlito holds the esteemed position of Head of Finance for Zero Gravity Beach Club Restaurant, affiliated with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. In addition to his responsibilities at Zero Gravity, he is also involved in secondment work with the Ownership group at Shamal, where he manages the finance and accounting operations of Dubai Harbour Marinas. This dual role highlights his versatility and ability to manage multiple responsibilities with utmost professionalism.

Warlito Cruz Jr.'s exceptional contributions to the finance field extend beyond his expertise in pre-opening hotels and F&B restaurants. He possesses advanced skills in strategic planning, displaying a keen understanding of financial dynamics and industry trends. His ability to analyze complex financial data and provide strategic insights has been instrumental in driving business success and optimizing financial performance.

Beyond his technical skills, Warlito is highly regarded for his leadership capabilities and relationship-building prowess. His positive demeanor, effective communication, and ability to inspire and motivate team members have earned him widespread respect from managers, department heads, and executive committees. He excels in fostering collaborative environments, where individuals are empowered to contribute their best and achieve collective goals.

Warlito's passion for continuous learning and development is evident through his advanced training skills. He takes pride in sharing his knowledge and expertise with colleagues and has been recognized for his outstanding contributions in training and development initiatives.

In addition to his professional achievements, Warlito possesses advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Excel, further enhancing his ability to streamline financial processes, perform detailed analyses, and deliver accurate reports.

As a leader in the finance industry, Warlito Cruz Jr. has shattered barriers and redefined success in a highly competitive and male-dominated environment. His unwavering determination, exceptional financial expertise, and strategic mindset have positioned him as a respected leader in the field. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring finance professionals, proving that gender is not a limitation to achieving excellence.

Warlito's dedication to the industry extends beyond his own success. He is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, actively promoting gender equality and empowering women in finance and throughout organizations. Through mentorship and serving as a role model, he strives to create opportunities for aspiring female professionals, encouraging them to break barriers and reach their full potential.

In conclusion, Warlito Cruz Jr.'s remarkable journey as a finance leader in the Middle East hospitality industry is marked by excellence, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of growth. His exceptional skills, strategic acumen, and commitment to fostering inclusive work environments have positioned him as a trailblazer in his field. As he continues to make significant contributions to the finance landscape, his impact resonates across the industry, inspiring others to strive for greatness and redefine success.