When it comes to association and industry involvement, I have a long- standing relationship with many local, regional and national associations - first and foremost being NACE (National Association of Catering Executives).
I first joined NACE in 1992 to gain some insight into how “other places do it.” Over time I developed relationships and wound up building a “preferred profes- sionals” list for Drexelbrook. In 1998 I became Vice-President of the local chapter, and President in 2000. I also have attended more than a dozen national conferences, and I can honestly say that I have made friends with peers from all over the country. In addition, Drexelbrook has garnered many referrals and events from other NACE members.
Presently I am Chairman of the Board for the Delaware Chamber of Commerce. I believe in a strong business community, which is the backbone of a strong econ- omy, and I have many long-term rela- tionships with fellow business owners and elected officials who share this same philosophy. In part because of these relationships, Drexelbrook also plays host to many chamber and politi- cal events.
In addition, I serve as the Vice-Chair for Delaware County’s Brandywine Conference and Visitors Bureau. Tourism is vital to the success of the hospitality industry, whether it’s hotels, restaurants, attractions, historic locations or event centers. The bureau works on creating awareness and promoting all the great
things to see and do in Delaware County, including its very successful Taste & Tour of the Countryside show- case event, hosted annually by Drexelbrook.
For the future, we are optimistic about adding a hotel to our existing Corporate Event Center. We feel this is the “missing piece” to really grow and reach markets that we are unable to serve without hav- ing hotel rooms on property.
Recently, we assumed management of three other facilities in Chester and Bucks Counties. Our Drexelbrook Brand awareness has enabled us to partner with good owners to help develop their business and broaden our reach in the marketplace, adding more resources for current and future clients.
In February 2012, we launched our first corporate café in the headquarters of Aqua America in Bryn Mawr, PA. We feel this business model will enable Drexelbrook to grow our brand locally and in the region. A second café con- cept is already in the works for the sum- mer of 2012. I firmly believe that these strategic partnerships, along with contin- ued relationship building, will strengthen each company’s position in the market- place.
When it comes to the hospitality indus- try, I would like to see this community present a united voice to our political leaders on the local, state and federal levels. So much of our financial success is contingent upon enacting laws that
help small businesses succeed without being over-taxed. Another area of con- cern is not being able to successfully obtain loans to grow businesses.
On a positive note, here in Pennsylvania we have seen a significant law change with regard to alcohol sales. With the passing of Act 11 of 2011, those busi- nesses with a liquor license can now sell alcohol outside of their premises, open- ing more opportunities for growth.
For those just starting out in this indus- try, I think it’s important to find a mentor right away, someone with experience either in sales or management or both. Because you will always being selling yourself or a product/service at some point in your career, it is vital to learn everything you can about sales.
When it comes to technology, I say embrace it. Today it’s a way of life, so the more you know about it, the more you will grow. As for social media, mas- ter it! But don’t rely exclusively on it. It’s still essential to build relationships, as they are the foundation of success. It’s important to join associations and con- tinue to educate yourself through research, reading and seminars. Be a sponge, and absorb everything around you by observing and then implementing what you learn.
Finally, have a “plan” everyday. Set goals on a daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and three-to-five year basis - then work the plan!
“For those just starting out in this industry, I think it’s important to find a mentor right away, someone with experience either in sales or management or both. Because you will always being selling yourself or a
product/service at some point in your career, it is vital to learn everything you can about sales.”
Mid-Atlantic EVENTS Magazine 73
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92