CLOSING JAN 9TH, 2025

Marc Ledesma

Marriott International / Director F&B Design & Development MEA

Marc Ledesma’s passion for hospitality started early on; people say it’s in his blood! Growing up working in his family’s restaurant & bar business taught him the value of building relations, entrepreneurship, and hard work. After his studies at Les Roches Crans-Montana Global Hospitality, looking to further develop and explore his interests in the industry and multi-unit operations management, Marc opted to travel. Working within independent and corporate environments, in restaurants, bars, and Hotel corporations throughout Europe, the USA, and MEA, he has built up an envelope of skills to become a multidisciplinary professional with a matured approach to business development, operations, and a refined eye for the creative disciplines.

Some notable projects through his years in the industry include Yas Island Abu Dhabi hospitality master planning, more recently, Zenith rooftop in Amman, Jordan, and Tamoka a beachfront concept in Dubai. Operationally awarded as the best restaurant in the category, best bar, best outdoor terrace, and a team of the year in various publications. 

For Marc Ledesma, the industry is all about people: people creating and sharing experiences around food & beverages. He loves creating F&B spaces that encourage interaction & connections. Marc is the most “alive” when the components of a strategy come together to create buzz and energy in a space full of people engaging with it and one another.

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Past Jury