Although Benchmark’s tremendous success is the result of the energy and talent of its remarkable and diverse management team, the company was founded in 1980 through the distinct vision of Burt Cabañas.

Mr. Cabanas emigrated from Cuba to the United States in 1957 at age 10, along with his mother and sister, following the death of his father. The family’s stay in the US was intended to be temporary; however, once Castro took power in Cuba, Burt and his family became “permanent exiles” in their new adopted homeland, never returning to Cuba.

• For over 30 years, Burt Cabañas, Benchmark, and the hospitality industry have been indelibly linked through the building or repositioning of countless hotels and resorts, through the development of the global conference center industry, and by serving on university boards, including Cabañas’ alma mater, Florida International University.
• Led by Burt Cabañas, Benchmark Hospitality is today the composite of thousands of people who serve a growing list of guests every day.
• Benchmark’s company culture is central to its management philosophy. The company’s stated purpose is “to provide an entrepreneurial environment where determined people dare to create, share, and build futures.”
• Benchmark’s vision is today as was when Mr. Cabañas launched the company in 1980 -- to provide career opportunities to individuals who have a positive service attitude and the determination to succeed.

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