Magnolia Hotel Omaha Appoints Rivera as GM, Rocha as F&B Director
September 1, 2026
OMAHA — Magnolia Hotel Omaha has appointed Ernesto Rivera as general manager and Rocky Rocha as director of food and beverage.
In his new role at the helm of the historic boutique hotel in the Old Market District, Rivera is responsible for overseeing operations, financial performance, team development and guest experience. Meanwhile, Rocha leads all the food, beverage and culinary operations, including banquets, events, catering and Olive & Ira’s, the property’s restaurant and bar that serves contemporary American cuisine.
Rivera began his hospitality career while in college as an airport greeter for El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. Before joining Magnolia Hotel Omaha, he was director of operations at The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Westin at The Woodlands. He also has held general manager and hotel manager roles in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
An award-winning chef, Rocha has more than 25 years of leadership experience in hotels, casino resorts, restaurants and banquet operations. He previously served as executive chef at Magnolia Hotel Omaha from 2007 to 2012.
His background includes roles as executive chef at Horseshoe Casino, senior sous chef at Hilton Omaha, sous chef at Ameristar Casino and Harrah’s Casino and a member of the opening culinary leadership team for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City. Before rejoining Magnolia Hotel Omaha, Rocha owned and operated Stadium 34 Sports Bar & Grill in Red Oak, Iowa.
