Michael Escalante

Michael A. Escalante – Global Hospitality Leader & Founder of R5 Hospitality Solutions

Michael Escalante is a global hospitality executive and the founder of R5 Hospitality Solutions, where he helps hotel owners, investors, and brands uncover hidden value and deliver exceptional guest experiences. With more than 30 years in the industry, Michael has worked with some of the most recognized names in hospitality, including Hilton, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, and Blackstone.

Before launching R5, Michael served as Hilton Worldwide’s Global Vice President for the Center for Operational Excellence, leading initiatives that improved service while delivering millions in annual labor savings across hundreds of properties worldwide. His career spans roles from General Manager to President of Operational Effectiveness, giving him a rare perspective that blends on-the-ground operations with boardroom strategy.

Michael’s approach is rooted in precision and systems thinking — a legacy of his early career in the U.S. Air Force and as an aerospace engineer. He holds a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M and an Executive MBA from Baylor University. When he’s not optimizing hotel performance, you’ll find him scuba diving, mountain biking, or behind a camera as a wildlife photographer.

Previously, Michael served as Global Vice President, Center for Operational Excellence for Hilton Worldwide, where he co-founded Hilton’s OE methodology and led the global deployment of enterprise-wide labour management and performance optimization systems across more than 600 properties. These initiatives consistently delivered sustained EBITDA savings of 6–12% of total operating labour without compromising service quality.

With hands-on experience in roles ranging from General Manager to Senior Vice President of Asset Management, Michael brings a rare blend of operational insight, financial acumen, and change leadership. His approach—rooted in his early career in the United States Air Force and aerospace engineering—applies precision, systems thinking, and disciplined execution to complex hospitality environments.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University and an Executive MBA in Finance from Baylor University. Outside of his professional pursuits, he is an avid global traveller, advanced scuba diver, mountain biking enthusiast, and wildlife photographer.