You wake up in the morning – what’s the driving passion?

I have a genuine desire for providing great service and leadership on a daily basis. I definitely possess a servant’s heart. I receive great joy from giving to members, staff and the community.

Given your varied involvements with different facilities — what’s the chief difference between working at a high-profile restaurant and a private club like Liberty National?

I believe the main difference at Liberty National is the focus is on you, the member. We strive for a very personalized style of service. It truly is special.

Golf clubs have accelerated efforts in upgrading culinary options but not all have the financial wherewithal to do what you’re able to do at Liberty National. What are some key steps that can be taken at those facilities regarding interesting food choices?

I think most clubs could benefit by growing some of their produce and herbs on property. This elevates quality and also has a positive impact on the bottom line.

Describe the process you follow regarding menu choices and the pathway you follow when changes are made during the course of a given year.

My menus are driven by the seasons and its offerings. I work with what’s fresh and beautiful. As time moves on, offerings are phased out and new ones appear.

What’s the biggest misunderstood elements that people have regarding what you do and what steps do you proactively take to orientate them in this regard.

I’m often asked, “how do you do it all and do it so well?” The answer is I have a great team. I make it a point to show off their abilities and attributes every opportunity I get. They are simply amazing!

Facilities of all types tout the importance of customer service. Define the term and the approach you follow.

Member service is in the way we deliver our “product” on a daily basis. This is an extremely vast topic. My approach is to be proactive while anticipating needs and engaging at all times.

What role does customer feedback play in your efforts and can you briefly outline a specific instance that shaped your future actions.

We thrive on member feedback. One instance is when trying to elevate a very elaborate and excessive member tournament we had engaged a few key members to be part of an ad hoc committee. This created an immediate “buy in” from membership as they were part of the decision making. It provides me with a better understanding of their perspective and the result was a huge success.

Curious to know, when you go out to eat with family and friends what’s the first thing you notice when arriving at the facility?

First thing I will take notice of is how I am greeted. Is it warm, friendly and genuine? The next observation will be of the scent and sounds. There are so many things that race through my mind from glassware to staff uniforms.

Your biggest pet peeve professionally is what?

Cleanliness — it’s an obsession.

Best advice you ever received — what was it and who from?

Early in my career at the Pierre hotel Chef Gerry Gramzay had made it a point to focus on the quality and seasonality of ingredients. “Procure the best ingredients and proper technique and let the food speak for itself.”