Today we’d like to introduce you to Lewis Rissman.
Lewis, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am originally Canadian. I have been working in the golf business and resort industry for 25 years.
I had a short career in this field in Canada and I then got the opportunity to manage one of the top golf resorts in the Philippines. I was there for 8 years. I wanted to swim the sharks in this industry so I got hired by the number one golf management company Troon. I was fortunate enough to end up being placed at a course in South Florida called Hillcrest in Hollywood. I was there until a year ago and for the last 3 years I have also been managing The Diplomat.
One year ago Hillcrest was sold to a housing company and has closed which has allowed me to spend all my time at the Diplomat. It is an amazing property and we have been working hard to bring it back to life.
Has it been a smooth road?
The golf industry has been a challenge in the last year. It is imperative to look at other sources of income at golf properties. When you think outside the box it is amazing what can be created.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the The Diplomat Golf and Tennis Club story. Tell us more about the business.
We are a Golf and Tennis Club with a Marina. We are known for our magnificent property in the middle of Hallandale.
It is as if you are in an oasis in Italy when walking through the fountains and beautiful architecture.
More importantly we offer high quality friendly service. We strive at making every member and guest and everyone who comes feel special. We have a team of people that create a culture of touching people’s hearts.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
The Club Business is struggling. It is very important to be able to appeal to multiple generations. What is good for the Traditionalists or Baby Boomers is not the same for Millennials or Generation X. The challenge lies in creating a club that appeals to all. The biggest challenge is appealing to the younger generations.
Contact Info:
- Address: 301 Diplomat Parkway,
Hallandale, Florida 33009 - Website: www.diplomatgolf.com
- Phone: 954-883-4000
- Email: sloring@troon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theclubdiplomat/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDiplomatGolfandTennisClub/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheClubDiplomat
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-diplomat-golf-and-tennis-club-hallandale-beach
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