Heiko Dobrikow, Executive Vice President of The Las Olas Company and General Manager of The Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, has been named the 2025 Hotelier of the Year by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA). Dobrikow was also inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame during the Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala held at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, commented on Dobrikow’s recognition: “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 operators as well as suppliers from across Florida for their achievements in hospitality. The Hall of Fame award is given to leaders who have demonstrated significant dedication and impact over many years within the industry.
Dobrikow responded to his induction 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.”
With over 30 years in hospitality management, Dobrikow is known for his focus on servant leadership and organizational transformation. He has managed teams at several major resorts including Marriott’s Bay Point Resort, Fisher Island Hotel & Resort, Casa Marina Resort, Mayfair Hotel & Spa, Radisson Deauville Beach Resort, and Hilton Palm Beach Oceanfront Resort.
Dobrikow has also contributed significantly to his local community through roles such as chairing both the Broward Workforce Development Board and Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. He previously led FRLA’s Broward Chapter and participated in various civic organizations. His work has earned him distinctions like being named one of Florida Trend’s Top 500 Most Influential Leaders.
Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association before merging with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006, FRLA represents more than 10,000 members statewide including independent businesses as well as large franchises. The association works to protect nearly $112 billion worth of economic activity generated by Florida’s hospitality sector while providing advocacy efforts along with training programs through its subsidiaries.
