Home:Shoal Bay, New South Wales, Australia. Age: 59. Birthplace: Sydney, Australia. Profession: Hospitality leader. Organization: Shoal Bay Country Club. Title: Director. Pronouns: He/Him/His. Alma mater: UNSW Sydney.
Current project: Atmos, Shoal Bay Country Club. Recent recognition: Nominated for best Restaurant NSW for Atmos at Shoal Bay Country Club. Latest contribution to others: I strive to donate tens of thousands every year to local communities and sport teams. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Leaving my job at Commonwealth Bank to buy my first venue, The Piccadilly Hotel. Hobbies: Time with my wife Denise and my children, Kristen, Peter and Luke Lazarus. Recent travel or adventure: Our annual holiday in the Greek Islands. Last book read: Verity, by Colleen Hoover.
Personality profile: Introverted, decisive, contemplative. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Mutually beneficial. What is your greatest joy? My family. What word or phrase do you use far too often? One team. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Travel. How do you relieve stress? Massages. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Sun and cocktails.
What was your first paying job? Waiter. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Books. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? Tony Robbins. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Good people are the key to success. What is your favorite app? TikTok. What is your go-to source of creative inspiration? Other leading hospitality groups such as Merivale. What personal circumstance has had the greatest influence on your life? Growing up in a migrant family, which taught me the value of hard work.
What is your big idea?
If you can provide enough value to other people, you will find that they will add immeasurable value to your business.
What mega-trend most concerns you? De-globalisation. What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Treat your staff well, and the rest will take care of itself. Give great training, respect and appreciation for your team and the customer will see the difference. What message do you want to send out into the world? “Swap your expectation for appreciation” (Tony Robbins).
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? The Underdog. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Nicholas Cage. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My father. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Photo albums. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? Quality time with my family. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? My twenties.
Personal mission: A happy family and successful business. Favorite quote: “Don’t reinvent the wheel.” Desired epitaph: Loved father, brother, son.
