Her Story
About Carolina
Carolina Rivera is the Founder of Rivera Hospitality LLC and an accomplished hospitality executive with more than 20 years of experience in hotel operations, food and beverage management, hospitality recruiting, and workforce development. Originally from Chile, she relocated to the United States and built her career through determination, resilience, and a commitment to continuous growth. Beginning in frontline hospitality roles including positions at McDonald's, a Chilean restaurant, and an Irish bar she gained invaluable industry experience before earning a degree in Hospitality Management. Her career has progressed into senior leadership positions, serving as Food and Beverage Manager and Director for several distinguished hotels, including her current role as Food and Beverage Manager at Hard Rock Hotel New York. Earlier in her career, she also successfully owned and operated a bar and restaurant for seven years, further strengthening her operational and entrepreneurial expertise.
As the founder of Rivera Hospitality LLC, Rivera is dedicated to helping hospitality businesses overcome staffing challenges by recruiting and placing qualified professionals while supporting organizations in building high-performing teams. Her entrepreneurial vision reflects her passion for strengthening the hospitality workforce and creating opportunities for both employers and industry professionals. Combined with her extensive hotel leadership experience, she has earned a reputation for operational excellence, exceptional guest service, team development, and fostering collaborative workplace cultures.
Rivera attributes her success to her determination to create a different future for herself and her unwavering passion to keep moving forward. Guided by the values of loyalty and honesty, she believes integrity, trust, and meaningful relationships are the cornerstones of lasting success in both business and life. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is committed to giving back to her community by volunteering with the Ronald McDonald House and participating in cycling events that raise funds for cancer research, reflecting her dedication to service, compassion, and making a positive impact both within and beyond the hospitality industry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carolina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep determination to create a different life than the one I witnessed growing up and an unwavering passion to keep moving forward. That drive has given me the resilience to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities for growth, and remain focused on achieving my goals. My experiences have shaped my perspective, strengthened my character, and inspired me to build a meaningful career while continually striving to make a positive impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to trust my instincts and follow my passion. I've learned that when you genuinely love what you do, you're more likely to persevere through challenges, continue growing, and find fulfillment in your work. Following my gut has helped me make decisions that align with my values and has guided me toward opportunities that are both meaningful and rewarding.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to follow your dreams, believe in yourself, and go after the opportunities that inspire you. Have confidence in your abilities, stay resilient when faced with challenges, and never let self-doubt keep you from pursuing your goals. With determination, hard work, and a willingness to keep learning, you can build a successful and fulfilling career.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me in both my work and personal life are loyalty and honesty. I believe that being dependable, trustworthy, and truthful builds strong relationships, fosters mutual respect, and creates a foundation for long-term success. These values guide my decisions, shape my interactions with others, and reflect the integrity I strive to uphold every day.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.