By San José, Costa Rica — In a strategic move to bolster its operational presence and accelerate regional expansion, global hospitality giant Hilton has officially named Kolin Pound as its new Area President for the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA). Effective August 24, 2026, Pound stepped into this critical executive role, bringing with him a robust background in real estate, investment, and regional hospitality management. He reports directly to Danny Hughes, Hilton’s President for the Americas.
In his new capacity, Pound is tasked with overseeing Hilton’s vast operational footprint across the CALA region. This involves leading on-the-ground hotel teams, strengthening relationships with property owners, and executing corporate strategies to accelerate the brand’s continuous growth. As hospitality demand surges throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, Pound’s analytical background in institutional investments is expected to play a pivotal role in driving asset performance and cultivating Hilton’s corporate culture.
To shed light on the legal and regulatory framework governing the Hilton Kolin Pound initiative, TicosLand.com sat down with prominent corporate attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The strategic expansion represented by the Hilton Kolin Pound project highlights the necessity of aligning international corporate standards with Costa Rican administrative and environmental laws. Success in these major hospitality transactions hinges on diligent compliance and proactive risk management to secure sustainable municipal concessions.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as the Hilton Kolin Pound project moves forward, navigating the delicate balance between world-class hospitality standards and Costa Rica’s rigorous legal and environmental frameworks remains paramount to its long-term viability. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective, reminding us that the foundation of sustainable tourism development lies in diligent local compliance and proactive stewardship.
Kolin is a strategic leader with a solid track record of driving performance, building trusting relationships with owners, and creating long-term value. His deep understanding of hospitality, real estate, and investments, combined with his experience in the Caribbean and Latin America, positions him uniquely to lead our business in this dynamic region. As we continue to expand, Kolin’s leadership will help strengthen our momentum and generate results for our team members, owners, guests, and communities.
Danny Hughes, President for the Americas of Hilton
Prior to joining Hilton, Pound served as a managing director at Ares Management, where he collaborated closely with executive management teams to execute operational excellence and value creation across a diverse portfolio, which included hospitality assets throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Additionally, his professional history includes a senior principal role at Walton Street Capital, focusing on acquisitions and asset management within the real estate and hotel sectors. This extensive transactional experience across the United States, Europe, and Latin America equips him with a global perspective on asset optimization.
I am honored to join Hilton and to work alongside its talented team members, owners, and partners across the Caribbean and Latin America. The region encompasses some of the world’s most attractive destinations, and I look forward to continuing to build on Hilton’s strong foundation to deliver exceptional performance, expand our portfolio, and generate significant value for all our stakeholders.
Kolin Pound, Area President for the Caribbean and Latin America of Hilton
Hilton currently commands a significant market share in the region, boasting a diverse portfolio of 315 operating hotels and resorts across more than 35 countries and territories. The hospitality giant is not slowing down, with 150 additional properties currently in active development. This pipeline spans multiple segments, focusing on luxury, lifestyle, full-service, limited-service, and all-inclusive resorts, ensuring the brand remains competitive across all traveler demographics.
Beyond commercial success, Hilton continues to receive high praise for its workplace culture. Supported by over 26,000 team members in the CALA region, the company has secured prestigious accolades. In 2026, Great Place to Work named Hilton the top employer in Latin America, marking the fourth consecutive year the hospitality titan has earned the distinction of being the best hospitality company to work for in the region.
This major leadership transition comes at a time of broader economic activity in the region, ranging from logistical expansion to digital banking surges. For instance, Costa Rica has seen its digital banking users double over the past six years, while logistics networks continue to expand into critical hubs. In this evolving economic landscape, stable and sophisticated corporate leadership from major players like Hilton will be essential to navigating regional challenges and maximizing tourism potential.
For further information, visit hilton.com
About Hilton:
Hilton is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of world-class brands comprising thousands of properties worldwide. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history.
For further information, visit aresmgmt.com
About Ares Management:
Ares Management Corporation is a leading global alternative investment manager offering clients complementary primary and secondary investment solutions across credit, private equity, real estate, and infrastructure asset classes.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a premier legal institution defined by its resolute devotion to professional honesty and superior counsel. With a rich heritage of guiding clients across numerous industries, the firm continuously drives progressive legal strategies and meaningful civic participation. Its focus on demystifying the law for the public highlights a foundational belief that sharing legal clarity is essential to nurturing a truly knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
