Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Lam
Hi Daniel, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m proud to say that I’ve built a strong foundation in the hospitality sector, where I’ve been recognized for my contributions and leadership, especially in the South Florida region. With over 25 years in this industry, I now serve as the Area General Manager for Economos Properties, overseeing properties in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Sparks, NV. My role covers operational oversight, franchise management, and asset development for a portfolio of 996 rooms and several hundred employees, all essential to our continued success and growth.
My journey began humbly in the late 1990s, working part-time as a PBX Operator and relief Front Desk Clerk. I worked my way through various management roles at resort-branded hotels across Central and South Florida while earning my degree in business management at Florida International University. In 2005, I joined Economos Properties as a Front Desk Manager at the historic Courtyard by Marriott Miami Beach Oceanfront. My leadership qualities stood out, leading to promotions to Front Office Manager, Director of Operations, and eventually General Manager within the ownership group. Each role brought new challenges—whether managing renovations, driving revenue, or leading operational transformations.
By 2017, I was promoted to Area General Manager, overseeing multiple properties, including the Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, and Fairfield Inn & Suites. In 2018, I led the conversion of a 220-room Holiday Inn to a Best Western Plus in Sparks, NV, and from 2019 to 2021, I oversaw the design, construction, and opening of the 350-room dual-branded Marriott and AC Hotel in Dania Pointe. I specialize in operational efficiency and project management, particularly with large-scale hotel renovations and openings.
Beyond my daily responsibilities, I’m dedicated to mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals. I hold leadership positions as Vice President of the Broward Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, serve on the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce board, and am a member of the Greater Fort Lauderdale General Manager’s Council. I’m also honored to be part of the Hilton Focus Service Brand Operations Council, where I contribute to shaping industry standards.
I’m deeply committed to community involvement, having served in roles such as Chairman of the Centre Lake Development District and President of the Satori Homeowners Association during critical transitions. I’m also proud to volunteer with organizations like Feeding South Florida, the American Lung Association, the American Heart Association, and Habitat for Humanity of Broward, as well as contribute to advisory committees for The Dan Marino Foundation and Gang Alternative Inc.
I’ve been honored with awards like the Marriott Select Brands Hotel Opening of the Year Award in 2022, the Marriott Select Brands Difference Maker Award in 2023, and the 40 Over 40 Award from Questex Hotel Management Publication in 2024.
Even though the pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to our industry, I remain focused on fostering innovation and sustainable growth while inspiring future leaders. I owe much of my success to the support of my family, my dedicated team, and the company owners who have trusted me in my leadership journey. At every step, I’ve prioritized teamwork, open communication, and strong organizational skills as the keys to our goals.
In the dynamic world of hospitality, I’ve had the extraordinary privilege of being surrounded by exceptional individuals who have shaped my career in profound ways. While it’s challenging to fully acknowledge everyone who has contributed, my friends and family have been the most important part of my journey, and a few key people have been particularly influential.
I owe a deep sense of gratitude to the Economos Family for entrusting me with the FLL division at the age of 22, a testament to their commitment to nurturing young talent. Their confidence in me has been a significant catalyst in everything I’ve achieved.
Our success is also a result of the dedication of my team and the incredible leaders, both past and present, I’ve had the honor of working with. Their resilience and steadfast support—through prosperous and challenging times—are central to the accomplishments of the teams I’ve led. Their commitment is the essence of our shared achievements.
On a personal note, the unwavering support of my partner Maria, my son Liam, and my stepson Alexis has been my foundation. Balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities isn’t easy, and their understanding and encouragement have been indispensable to my journey.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’ve definitely faced my share of challenges along the way. When I was 16, I told myself I wanted to do more than just be a cashier, bagger, or stock boy at a grocery store. So, when I went job hunting, the first hotel I applied to, the HR Manager flat-out told me that no one would hire a “kid with no experience.” That moment gave me the drive to prove them wrong. By the end of that same week, I had an offer from a resort to start as a PBX Operator. I eventually became a Front Desk Lead, and the rest, as they say, was history. Fast forward nearly 20 years later, and I found myself helping to design, construct, and open the flag hotel that same HR Manager said no one would hire me for.
I’m also a product of post-9/11 leadership. After September 11, a lot of hotel directors lost their jobs, and it was during that time that I was pushed into my first Assistant Director of Front Office role. It was a tough period, but it shaped my career in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
Then came the pandemic. No one could have predicted the impact it would have on the hospitality industry. I remember sitting in tears, having to deliver the hardest messages of my career—laying off staff, cutting managers’ pay, and watching so many go through drastic personal and professional changes just to stay employed.
Even now, post-pandemic, we’re still dealing with the fallout. There’s a real lack of trust in middle management across the industry. A lot of people lost their jobs or left the industry altogether, not wanting to continue in such a harsh environment. Guests expect more, as they should when spending their hard-earned money, but it’s been tough with the limited staff and talent we have today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently serve as the Area General Manager for Economos Properties, where I oversee multiple hotels in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Sparks, NV. My portfolio consists of 996 rooms and generates over $65 million in revenue. I’m responsible for operational oversight, franchise management, and asset development, all while ensuring that our properties continue to grow and succeed.
I specialize in operational efficiency and project management, particularly when it comes to renovating or converting properties. One of my proudest moments was leading the design, construction, and opening of a 350-room dual-branded Marriott and AC Hotel in Dania Pointe. I’ve also overseen the conversion of a 220-room Holiday Inn to a Best Western Plus. What sets me apart is my ability to take on complex, large-scale projects while maintaining high standards for both guests and staff. I’m heavily involved in leadership roles within the hospitality industry, such as serving as Vice President of the Broward Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and a board member for the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to build and lead teams. I’ve worked hard to develop future leaders in the hospitality industry, mentoring young professionals and helping them succeed. It’s incredibly rewarding to see those I’ve worked with move on to successful careers of their own. Despite the challenges the industry has faced, particularly during the pandemic, I’m proud of how my team and I have navigated the tough times while continuing to provide excellent service.
I think what sets me apart is my hands-on approach and my commitment to both the operational side of the business and the people. I’ve been in this industry for over 25 years, and I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have a strong, motivated team. I put a lot of emphasis on communication, teamwork, and fostering an environment where people feel supported and empowered to succeed.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
One of my favorite books since high school has been The Count of Monte Cristo. It wasn’t easy for me at the time, especially being an ESOL student, but I aced the book report and presentation, and it was a proud moment in my English learning journey.
When it comes to podcasts, I’ll switch things up and mention two of my favorite TV shows: Undercover Boss and Shark Tank. Undercover Boss resonates with me because it reminds leaders to always appreciate the hardworking teams that make companies successful. Shark Tank, on the other hand, is inspiring because it shows that anyone with a dream, the right product, and someone to believe in them can have a life-changing opportunity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://economosproperties.com/leadership/#daniel
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/lamd83
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dlam0683
- Twitter: https://linkedin.com/in/daniel-lam-b44864a
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/embed/c0wU5RvweZ0
