Company address: 2308 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Company Web site: www.ambassadormilwaukee.com
Industry: Hospitality
Number of employees: 120
Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marquette University
Family: Wife, Carol; son, Rick; and daughter, Taylor.
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
“Hired extremely qualified staff with a vision consistent with that of ownership.”
What’s new at your company?
“The remodeling and repositioning of our sister property, the Ambassador Inn at Marquette.”
Do you plan to hire any additional staff or make any significant capital investments in your company in the next year?
“We are currently planning the future expansion of the Ambassador Hotel, which will include a banquet facility, additional guest suites and a parking structure.”
What will be your company’s main challenges in the next year?
“Continuing the pace that we have been able to increase occupancy and ADR over the past year.”
What’s the hottest trend in your industry?
“Providing personalized spa and other relaxation facilities and services.”
Do you have a business mantra?
“Invest in neighborhoods that are on the verge of revitalization, plan thoroughly and renovate with the intention of holding the property forever.”
From a business standpoint, who do you look up to?
“I can’t disclose. He tries to keep a low profile.”
What was the best advice you ever received?
“Listen more than talk. Read the newspaper.”
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened to you in your career?
“A woman who had lived in the hotel for decades (it used to be a residential hotel), who truly believed she owned it, asked me, ‘Who said you could replace the windows?’ I said, ‘You did, Judith, don’t you remember?’ And she replied, ‘Oh yeah, I remember.'”
What do you like to do in your free time?
“Ski, scuba dive, swim and tennis.”
