Paulson PR generated $1.3 billion for local economy in 2 years

By THE STAR STAFF

Paulson Puerto Rico generated more than 13,000 jobs and $1.3 billion in operational economic impact during 2024 and 2025, according to a new economic study developed as part of the company’s Summer Internship Program.

The findings anchor the fourth edition of the initiative, which Paulson uses to expose university students to real‑world strategic projects while highlighting the broader effect of its investments across the island.

This summer, seven students from universities in Puerto Rico and the United States participated in the immersive program, working alongside executives to analyze the economic footprint of Paulson Puerto Rico’s diversified portfolio. The cohort -- with concentrations in hospitality, finance, engineering and marketing -- examined the company’s operations across hospitality, real estate, commercial offices and automotive assets.

The project was led by Chief Financial Officer Nelson Colón, with support from the corporate leadership team and the consulting firm Estudios Técnicos, which guided the students through the methodology, analytical modeling and validation process. Colón said the program is designed to give participants substantive, high‑impact assignments rather than a traditional internship experience.

“Our goal is to offer much more than a summer experience,” Colón said. “This year they developed an analysis that demonstrates, with data, the impact a company like Paulson Puerto Rico generates in the island’s economy. That combination of practical learning and strategic thinking is the essence of our internship program.”

The study consolidated, for the first time, the economic impact of Paulson Puerto Rico’s principal assets, including The Condado Collection (Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, La Concha Resort and Condado Ocean Club), Four Seasons Resort Puerto Rico, Four Seasons Private Residences, Vanderbilt Residences, American International Plaza, 270 Plaza and the automotive operations of Gómez Hermanos.

Co‑Chief Executive Officers Rolando Padua and Rafael Cedeño Paulson said the results underscore the effect of a diversified investment strategy and reinforce the importance of continuing to invest in both Puerto Rico’s economic development and the training of future leaders.

“This study confirms that our investments go beyond project development; they generate economic activity, support thousands of jobs and contribute to Puerto Rico’s sustainable growth,” they said. “Our Internship Program reflects that same philosophy, exposing students to analyses that help them understand the multiplier effect of our operations while strengthening their skills and inspiring them to become professionals committed to generating positive impact.”

With four editions completed -- supported by executives including Chief Legal Counsel María Ligia Giraldéz, Chief Communications Officer Marian Juliette Medina, Corporate Director of Security & Operations Luis Brigantti, Legal Operations Manager María Victoria Muñoz, Senior Financial Analyst Jean Philippe Beauchamp and Senior Accounting & Internal Controls Manager María Ayala -- the program has become a bridge between academia and the private sector. It offers students the opportunity to collaborate directly with senior leaders on high‑impact projects that enhance their professional development and contribute to Puerto Rico’s broader economic growth.