Alexander Claus
Alexander Claus is the Managing Director at Clay Hospitality, an enthusiastic and driven hospitality company. For him, hospitality and entrepreneurship aren’t just career paths—they're in his DNA. He’s deeply passionate about pushing boundaries in the hospitality industry through creative and lifestyle-focused initiatives, constantly striving for excellence. The Clay Hospitality brands are all focussed on creating spaces, wheter it be hotels, restaurants or event venues, that make their guests feel both welcome and at home as inspired and adventureous.
Alexander’s journey in hospitality is rooted in a strong academic foundation. He holds a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management from Florida International University, where he was an active member of the Eta-Sigma Delta Honors Society and played a part in the celebrated South Beach Wine & Food Festival. Before that, he earned his Bachelor's degree from Hotelschool The Hague, where his passion for hotel management and operations began to take shape.
His career began with diverse roles in hospitality, including a Project Manager position at O’Neill in 2010, where he organized the O’Neill Surf Academy across multiple European locations and served as Relations Manager during several events for O’Neill in Canada, USA and Africa. From there, he took on the role of General Manager at El Sitio - Boutique Resort & Beach Club in Panama, where he not only ran operations but also developed fresh, innovative hospitality concepts.
Over the past decade, Alexander has founded several successful businesses such as Shjark Group, a consulting and development firm that advises clients in hospitality, event management, and marketing, Three Palms Adventures an ecotourism company offering unique experiences, such as boat/jungle tours and surfing lessons in Panama, and Tres Palmas Houses, a property management and rental company.
In 2018, he joined the board of his family business, Claus Company, as Chief Commercial Officer, overseeing brand development and feasibility. The past few years have been filled with many transitions, changes, and new opportunities. - However, the past few years brought new opportunities and the decision to split the family business in 2022. This pivotal moment led Alexander to fully dedicate himself to Clay Hospitality, where he now leads a team of talented and creative individuals who share his vision and passion for change. Together, they are constantly evolving and elevating the Clay Hospitality brands.
His global experience across hospitality, consulting, and management allows him to bring innovative solutions and leadership to every project. In 2021, he was honored with the Rising Star Award for Corporate Hospitality Management by FIU. He is also a proud board member of theConvention Bureau Event Park Amsterdam.
Driven by both passion and experience, Alexander believes that entrepreneurship is most successful when led by the heart. It’s this combination of instinct and dedication that fuels his work and his life.