Paulson Puerto Rico Announces Co-CEOs and Advances Its 2026 Strategic Vision
2025 marked a pivotal year in the growth of Paulson Puerto Rico. It was a year of execution, results, and consolidation, during which the company completed more than $150 million in investments across its various business lines, strengthening its presence in strategic sectors and reaffirming its commitment to Puerto Rico’s economic development.
Looking ahead to 2026 and as part of the company’s next chapter of growth, Paulson Puerto Rico is formalizing its executive leadership structure with the appointment of Rolando Padua and Rafael Cedeño Paulson as Co-Chief Executive Officers (Co-CEOs). This decision institutionalizes a leadership model that has guided the company’s growth over recent years.
Under this shared leadership structure, Paulson Puerto Rico has consolidated its position as one of the strongest business platforms in the country, with integrated operations across hospitality, real estate development, corporate offices, and automotive portfolios, as well as a corporate social responsibility strategy embedded as a cross-cutting pillar across all operations. This growth is reflected in milestones such as the opening of Four Seasons Resort & Residences Puerto Rico, the conversion of La Concha Hotel to Autograph Collection, and the launch of world-class residential developments, among other strategic initiatives.
As a result of the sustained development of its projects over time, the company currently generates an accumulated economic impact equivalent to approximately 3.5% of Puerto Rico’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“2025 was a year in which we closed significant chapters and strengthened key alliances, working hand in hand with the public sector and nonprofit organizations to ensure that our growth remains aligned with the Island’s sustainable development. This collective effort, driven by the commitment of our team, allowed us to strengthen our operations and consolidate a vision built on solid and responsible foundations. Today, we see the results of this work reflected in the continuity of more than 3,000 jobs, both direct and indirect, which will continue to expand with the projects ahead. Looking forward, we are prepared to continue driving growth for Puerto Rico,” stated Co-CEOs Rolando Padua and Rafael Cedeño Paulson in a joint statement.
Organizational Structure
Paulson Puerto Rico continues to operate with a solid corporate structure and a proven executive leadership team, including Nelson Colón, Chief Financial Officer; María Ligia Giráldez, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer; Eduardo Shaw, Chief Technology Officer; Marian Medina, Chief Communications Officer; and Luis Brigantti, Corporate Director of Security Operations.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With nearly $1 billion in planned investment over the coming years, Paulson Puerto Rico enters 2026 focused on maximizing its business lines, expanding strategic projects, and continuing to position Puerto Rico as a world-class destination for investment and development.
The formalization of the Co-CEO leadership model reflects continuity, alignment, and strong governance, positioning the company to execute its next phase of growth with institutional clarity and a long-term vision.
About the Co-Chief Executive Officers
Rolando Padua is a native of Puerto Rico with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. He is an attorney, a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, and has held senior public service roles, including Deputy Secretary of State, Director of Aviation at the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, and Advisor to the Governor. He joined Paulson Puerto Rico more than seven years ago and previously served as President of the company, leading key strategic initiatives across the organization.
Rafael Cedeño Paulson is a native of Ecuador with a strong background in the financial sector, specializing in private equity and investment banking. He joined Paulson & Co. Inc. three years ago, where he served as Executive Vice President. Previously, he held various investment roles at leading global financial institutions including Goldman Sachs, Evercore, Cargill, and Credit Suisse, focusing on large-scale investments, mergers, and acquisitions. He graduated summa cum laude from Cornell University and holds an MBA from Harvard Business School. Rafael is also a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Museo de Arte de Ponce, an alumnus of SEO Career, and held FINRA licenses, including Series 7, Series 79, and Series 63.