Sunil Wadhwani of McAllen, TX, is a recognized success story within the hospitality industry, and it’s not hard to see why.

The Asian-born businessman immigrated to the U.S. with his family at six. After drawing heavy inspiration from the success story of his parents (an American Dream-personified), Sunil set out on a journey that sailed along the ebbs and flows of the nation’s entrepreneurship. He experienced the highs and lows, the changes, and the complete restructuring of commerce in the blooming digital age, all of which came firsthand.

What began as a single 65-room inn has become an eight-location franchise, with a ninth soon on the way and nearly 1,000 managed rooms across South Texas’ La Quinta/Wyndham, Motel 6, and Marriott brands.

Sunil Wadhwani may have maneuvered the American Dream masterfully, but he didn’t stop there. Today, the CEO’s $8.5 million company has consistently earned Franchise of the Year for Motel 6 and La Quinta.

Sunil Wadhwani: The Family Man

Behind the mind of one of the Texas hotel industry’s leading figures is a loving, compassionate, and dedicated husband and father. Sunil Wadhwani married his high school sweetheart in 1989 and has had four children with her. He’ll be the first to express how meaningful they are in his life, especially during times of hardship and travail.

On his biggest motivators throughout his career, Sunil commented: “Always first is my Family, my children, and grandchildren. Second is the inspiration of watching my parents build a successful and happy life from nothing.”

From a young age, witnessing his parents turn nothing into success was more than enough inspiration to propel Sunil’s career. His ethos derives from their ability to champion adversity and support the family.

“[My parents] are my heroes and all the inspiration I ever needed to excel. If I am a success, then [sic] it’s due to them, and I can only hope to continue that and do the same for my children and their children.”

Now Sunil has three grandchildren and works tirelessly to grant them the opportunities his parents allowed for him.

Sunil Wadhwani: The Business Man

At 25, Sunil Wadhwani ventured into entrepreneurship by establishing his own retail store in McAllen, TX, specializing in electronics and fine watches. The business not only rode along the shifts of an ephemeral American market but also embraced the imminent rise of online retail, where Sunil found success, engaging with platforms like Amazon.

Years later, he transitioned into real estate development, venturing into a 20-acre housing project that was stunted by a housing market collapse. Undeterred, he seized an opportunity in the hospitality sector in the year 2000, becoming a franchisee with La Quinta Inn & Suites and establishing a 65-room inn in Pharr, Texas.

Today, Sunil Wadhwani’s business history exemplifies the same perseverance showcased by his parents. Knowing the rarity of success in a single industry, he shadowed his youth and let his inspiration guide him along each and every roadblock he faced.

Sunil Wadhwani: The Leadership Man

At the heart of Sunil Wadhwani’s leadership style is a hands-on, involved approach that sets him apart from other hotel owners. As a CEO deeply invested in the daily operations of his establishments, Sunil has made it a routine to visit each location on a daily basis. This hands-on engagement isn’t just a quirky habit; it is a commitment to ensuring the optimal functioning of each property.

Sunil’s direct interaction with general managers allows him to avoid any challenges or situations that may have arisen since their last conversation. He has created a unique sense of trust with his 120+ employees, allowing for a collaborative atmosphere where solutions are discussed and guidance is offered.

The CEO also takes a personal interest in maintaining strong relationships with over 100 vendors daily. This commitment to direct communication ensures that the supply chain is not just efficient but operates in a way that contributes to the overall success of its entire fleet of establishments and its staff. This directly-involved role reflects his belief in the power of relationships in business, perhaps a byproduct of his dedication to his family.

So what truly sets Sunil Wadhwani of McAllen, TX, apart from his contemporaries? Many CEOs wouldn’t blink an eye at the prospect of meeting their staff face-to-face, but for Sunil, it’s second nature; for Sunil, the success of those around him is just as, if not more, important than his own. This selflessness isn’t for financial gain — it’s a part of his identity.

What Does the Future Hold for Sunil Wadhwani?

As Sunil Wadhwani nears his sixties, the CEO aspires not just to accumulate more properties but to instill a lasting impact on future entrepreneurs and his family. He strives to kindle the spark of ambition in others, proving that dreams are attainable and worth pursuing relentlessly.

Sunil has given his children and grandchildren the opportunity to thrive, much like his parents did for him. Perhaps future generations of the Wadhwani family will see Sunil’s success and carry that ethos into their endeavors.