My career journey from operating resort properties to developing award-winning destinations has been nothing short of extraordinary and fun. It all began when I transitioned from driving accommodation revenues and delivering memorable guest services into building meaningful pillars for one of the top amusement park operators in the world—Cedar Fair now Six Flags Entertainment.
I was fortunate to be part of a lean, diligent, and incredibly hardworking team that touched and influenced every sector of our division. Although our experience in development and strategy was limited at that time, and operating budgets were tight, we were empowered by the leadership of Matt Ouimet, whose hospitality expertise from Disney and Starwood sparked a refreshed approach within our team. We found creative ways to influence, innovate, and develop properties over a ten-year stretch.
One key turning point was the creation of beach-front guest experiences through a newly formed Activities Department at Hotel Breakers, which evolved into the park-wide Cedar Point Beach Nights initiative that has been highly successful due the overall teams hard work and creativity. This project, heavily supported by our Marketing department, not only enhanced guest experiences but also revived Cedar Point’s legacy as a lakeside entertainment destination dating back to the early 1900s when its dance galas were the main focal point.
This pivotal moment shifted my focus toward the development, design, and user experience of our guest spaces. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of transforming many properties, turning guest experience challenges into highly profitable and energetic resorts and campgrounds.
In 2023, my wife and I took a leap and launched Explorer Rest & Recreation, a revitalization of the 60’s roadside motel, designed for value travelers. Our vision was to create a resting spot for Cedar Point and sports travelers, offering a seamless self-check-in experience and the amenities guests desire—all at an affordable cost. Today, Explorer is one of the top-ranked hotel properties in Sandusky, Ohio.
This journey has been filled with unique opportunities, growth, and lifelong lessons. I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries in hospitality and look forward to what’s next.