From Humble Beginnings to Top Tourism Executive: The Journey of Raúl González

Raúl González was born in Guardo (Palencia) in 1961, a place he describes as rather strange. Despite the challenges of living there, he believes that his father’s stationing there led him to pursue a career in tourism. Currently serving as the CEO for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East of Barceló Hotel Group, the second-largest Spanish chain by number of rooms, González grew up and lived in Bilbao until work with the hotel company brought him to Palma de Mallorca.

González is known for his love of traveling and meeting new people. He admits that excessive travel can be exhausting but believes it is crucial to his work in the tourism industry. He takes around 200 flights per year and emphasizes the importance of staying connected with hotels under his supervision. As he reflects on his career evolution, González notes that as responsibilities have increased, he has become more focused on fostering personal relationships rather than economics. He stresses the importance of understanding people from various roles and backgrounds.

In terms of personal interests, González enjoys sports like paddle tennis and tennis, reading, and spending time with his family. He acknowledges the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance but tries to ensure quality time without distractions when he spends time with his loved ones. When discussing stress management, González emphasizes temperance and respectful communication to avoid impacting those around him negatively. He acknowledges that maintaining a friendly demeanor can be challenging but believes it is essential for self-reflection and humility in decision-making.

In conclusion, Raúl González’s journey from Guardo (Palencia) to becoming CEO of Barceló Hotel Group highlights how destiny can shape our careers and lead us down unexpected paths. His love for travel and people has fueled his success in the tourism industry while also providing opportunities for personal growth and development outside of work. With a focus on building relationships and staying connected with those around him, González has achieved great success while also maintaining a sense of balance between work and family life.