Spanish national leaves impressive mark on local tourism landscape

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A last-minute decision made 24 years ago led Carlos Moleón, a Spanish economist, to swap a planned assignment to Central America for an unexpected redeployment to Jamaica.

His arrival on the island was not just a professional pivot; it marked the beginning of a transformative journey that would reshape both his life and the Jamaican tourism industry.

“Jamaica was not a part of the agenda; it was not on the initial itinerary. When the Spanish company hired me, I was going to Guatemala. About ten days before going to Guatemala, they told me they had just signed off on a three-month contract with a company from Ireland called Digicel, Mossel Jamaica Limited at the time…to build some 50 cell sites [towers] in Jamaica,” Moleon reminisced.

“The company explained that they wanted someone who could also speak English and asked if I could go to Jamaica for the three months. I told them I didn’t have a problem and so I came for three months, and it’s been 24 years since.”

Moleón landed in Jamaica in the early days of Digicel’s expansion, a burgeoning telecommunications company that would soon become a household name. His expertise in installing cell sites was crucial for the company’s rapid growth, and it was during this period that he began to forge connections that would serve him well in the years to come.

As the telecommunications landscape evolved, so did his career. By the time he transitioned into tourism, Jamaica was on the cusp of a hospitality boom.

The only prominent Spanish hotel at the time was RIU, and Moleón quickly became an invaluable resource for potential Spanish investors looking to break into the Jamaican market.

“Investors needed someone who understood both the local landscape and the Spanish way of doing business,” he explains. “My fluency in Spanish and deep understanding of Jamaican culture made me the ideal consultant for hotel projects.”

Moleón’s influence can be seen in some of Jamaica’s most easily recognisable resorts. He has played a part in the establishment of almost 4,000 hotel rooms, collaborating during his telecommunications time with major brands like Iberostar, Secrets, Grand Palladium, Excellence, Grand Bahia Principe and new kids on the block, Princess and H10 Ocean.

Of significant note also, Moleon has a role to play in another Secrets Hotel coming to Jamaica as construction of the new property is expected to start in Richmond, St Ann in another few months.

His role has been multifaceted: advising on land acquisition, liaising with local government entities, and ensuring that the transition for Spanish interests was as smooth as possible.

His contributions extended beyond consultancy; he also spearheaded telecommunication installations and special systems services for many of these properties.

“People often assume I am an engineer because of the type of work I deliver,” he laughs, crediting his success to a blend of hard work and a commitment to excellence.

Moleón’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop at hotels. He became a founder and senior director of Club Mobay and Club Kingston, VIP lounges at Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport and Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. These lounges cater to travellers seeking a premium experience, and Moleón’s leadership (along with partner David Hall) has been instrumental in enhancing the offerings.

Beyond lounges, he ventured into villa rentals and property acquisition. His keen eye for opportunity has led him to develop a robust portfolio, making him a prominent figure in Jamaica’s real estate market.

About six years ago, Moleon also established a high-quality concrete supply company named DURACON which competes head-to-head with the ancillary local suppliers of concrete within the hotel industry.

“I believe in the potential of this island, and I want to be a part of its growth,” he stated passionately.

Moleón said Jamaica’s investment climate is such that he sees a further tourism boom with the Spanish hotels being at the front and centre of what is to come.

“The Spanish expansion in Jamaica is just the tip of the iceberg,” he asserts confidently. “I believe more investors are coming, and I want to be at the forefront of that movement.”

Moleón’s story not only exemplifies the broader narrative of Spanish investment in Jamaica but has won him many admirers – both public and private.

“Carlos Moleon’s journey and his contributions to tourism overall have been immeasurable. Over the years, he has been a catalyst for connecting Spanish entrepreneurs with local opportunities, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both parties,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett.

Continuing, Bartlett added that “his extensive network and deep understanding of both cultures have made him a bridge between Jamaica and Spain, fostering partnerships that continue to flourish”. According to Bartlett, Moleon’s optimism is backed by “tangible results.”

The tourism minister noted that the presence of Spanish hotels and businesses in Jamaica has surged since Moleon’s arrival and involvement on the island 24 years ago, contributing significantly to the local economy and creating jobs for thousands of Jamaicans.

“Mr Moleón’s role in this transformation cannot be overstated, he has been both a guide and a facilitator for Spanish interests eager to navigate the complexities of the Jamaican market,” Bartlett noted.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, Marc Melville, said an understated fact of Moleón’s approach to community engagement is his involvement in the Spanish Jamaican Foundation.

“As a founding member of the Spanish Jamaican Foundation, a non-profit organisation, I can’t stress enough the great job they did during COVID-19, reflecting a broader trend among foreign investors in Jamaica, where business leaders are increasingly recognising the value of good corporate involvement,” Melville shared.

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