News Room
Press Releases
DECEMBER 1, 2025
Executive Chef Diego Ortega Takes Helm
Chef Ortega brings a refined, globally inspired perspective shaped by his international training and passion for flavor-forward coastal cuisine.
January 28, 2025
Welcome Specialty Chef Joe Bennett
Chef Bennett will oversee culinary operations and offerings at Rufa as well as Jack Dusty.
September 30, 2024
Rufa Added to Resort’s Dining Portfolio
The new outlet features imaginative cocktails, shareables and breathtaking sunset views.
March 5, 2024
Celebrate Easter on the Gulf Coast
Guests will love this year’s extensive schedule of spring-themed special events and experiences.
December 14, 2023
Mark Sherwin Joins Resort as General Manager
Sherwin brings more than three decades of hospitality expertise to the role.
December 5, 2023
Renovated Ritz-Carlton Spa Unveiled
The resort unveils phase one of its newly renovated spa, ushering in a new era of wellness for the property.
October 2023
Enchanting Holiday Season Experiences
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota just announced an extensive program of seasonal experiences, culinary delights, wellness offerings and family-friendly activities that will take place from late November through New Year’s Day.
October 2023
Director of Group and Catering Sales Welcomed
Leslie Bloznalis Ellis brings three decades of hospitality sales expertise to her role.
Wednesday, April 19, 2023
New Senior Sales Managers Join Resort Team
The resort is delighted to welcome Diann Flanders, who will oversee Catering sales, and Jennifer Hanna, who will manage Group sales.
Friday, April 7, 2023
New Director of Restaurants, Beach Club Ops
With a tenure of over 15 years with The Ritz-Carlton brand, Ozdemir brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role managing the day-to-day operations of The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club and its various food and beverage outlets, including signature beachfront restaurant, Ridley’s Porch.
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
U.S. News & World Report Names Us #1
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota swept the Sarasota hotel and resort categories, ranking first place in Best Sarasota Hotels, Best Sarasota Resorts, and Best Central Sarasota Hotels.
Monday, December 5, 2022
Celebrate the Holidays in Style
Offerings Include Seasonal Culinary Creations, Cocktails, Wellness Programs & Family Friendly Activities.
Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce Hospitality Business of the Year, 2026
Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Sarasota
Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota, 2026
U.S. News & World Report Gold Badge Winner, 2026
Wellness in Travel & Tourism (WITT) Certified
Good Housekeeping Travel Award, Best East Coast Beach Resorts, 2026
Sarasota Magazine's Best of Sarasota Awards, Best Hotel, Best Spa, Best Golf Course, Best Mixologist, Best Cocktail (Finalist), 2025
AAA Four Diamond Award, 2025
OpenTable Diners' Choice Award, Jack Dusty Coastal Cuisine and Crafted Cocktails, 2025
Magellan Gold Award, Business/Conference Resort/Hotel, 2024
Hemispheres Magazine’s Best American Spa, 2023 – The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota
Marriott Golf Property of the Year, 2021
Shannon Hadley
Director of Sales & Marketing
