At the 2025 Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala, Heiko Dobrikow was named Hotelier of the Year by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA). The event took place at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin, where Dobrikow was also inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, said, “Heiko Dobrikow represents the heart and spirit of Florida’s hospitality industry – a dedicated professional whose passion for people, pursuit of excellence, and commitment to service have left an enduring mark on our state. For more than three decades, Heiko has led with purpose and humility, proving that true leadership is rooted in service to others. His commitment to excellence, mentorship, and community has not only elevated the Riverside Hotel and The Las Olas Company but has also strengthened Florida’s entire hospitality family. It is our great honor to welcome Heiko into the FRLA Hall of Fame and celebrate him as our 2025 Hotelier of the Year.”
The annual gala honors restaurant and lodging professionals from across Florida for their achievements in hospitality. The Hall of Fame distinction is given to leaders who have made significant contributions over many years.
Dobrikow responded to his recognition by saying, “I am deeply honored to be recognized as the 2025 Hall of Fame Hotelier of the Year by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of the incredible people who make Florida’s hospitality industry thrive every day. Servant leadership has always been my guiding principle — leading by lifting others, empowering teams, and creating meaningful experiences for our guests and communities. I remain fully committed to serving our industry with gratitude, integrity, and a shared vision for a stronger, more connected Florida hospitality family.”
Dobrikow has more than 30 years’ experience in hospitality management. He currently serves as Executive Vice President at The Las Olas Company and General Manager at Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. His career includes positions at several well-known resorts such as Marriott’s Bay Point Resort and Hilton Palm Beach Oceanfront Resort.
In addition to his business roles, Dobrikow has chaired organizations like the Broward Workforce Development Board and Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. He previously led FRLA’s Broward Chapter as well. His leadership has been acknowledged through various honors including being listed among Florida Trend’s Top 500 Most Influential Leaders.
FRLA is a statewide trade association representing more than 10,000 members from hotels, restaurants, theme parks, franchises, and suppliers across Florida. Its mission includes advocacy for its members’ interests before lawmakers as well as offering regulatory compliance training programs for food safety through Safe Staff and RCS Training. The association also supports high school career-building programs via its Educational Foundation.
