We all know no day is the same, but what does ‘a day in the life’ as the Chief Financial & Commercial Officer of DYRSL look like?
My days are extremely varied. They range from managing strategic projects such as the current Development Application which will see us deliver the next stage of the Club’s growth, to overseeing the day to day financial and business management ensuring the club is here for current and future generations to enjoy.
What do you love the most about your role?
I get immense satisfaction driving club developments forward and watching members, guests and staff enjoy new spaces and facilities. Creating and constantly increasing the clubs diversified income portfolio is also extremely rewarding.
This might be hard to narrow down, but can you share your favourite moment from the past 25 years?
There are several but my absolute favourite would be the day the first residents moved into Oceangrove seniors’ living village – I still feel proud transforming an idea had on a plane into an award winning village.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in this industry?
The Club industry is all about people and community. Our roles enable us to positively impact the community in which we live, and you get to see the benefit and camaraderie firsthand. Embrace the industry – you can make a difference and it is a great place to be.
What has been your biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?
That would have to be the Covid pandemic. It was terrible having to stand staff down and see an empty Club which is usually full of life and activity. Not only was it extremely hard from a people perspective, but we were also in the middle of construction with Battery House about to open and the new 6 level car park, Courtyard and Flame in progress. Managing the contractual obligations was challenging, but the Club was extremely well protected, and the final outcome was very positive.
If you could go back and give your younger self advice on your first day at DYRSL, what would it be?
Balance driving the club forward with spending more time with my son when he was younger. He was always first to arrive at daycare and last to leave. For all the clubs progress that aspect still makes me sad. I think this generation has a better balance on life.
What is your favourite drink?
It would have to be a gin and tonic, closely followed by a cold glass of Vidal.
What is your go-to meal at DYRSL?
There is a lot of great food but my favourite would be any dish on the Flame menu – it’s a great restaurant.
Tell us something we wouldn’t know about you…
I absolutely love sailing. My experiences have ranged from being rescued at sea on the English south coast when I was eleven, to winning the twilight series last year.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Anything and everything that involves water.