Crimson Ridge announces new director of operations

NEWS RELEASE
CRIMSON RIDGE
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The ownership group at Crimson Ridge is extremely proud to introduce their new director of operations, Mr. Travis Spiess. Travis has established himself as a top industry leader and has a proven track record of delivering a world-class golf and dining experience at the highest level.

Travis officially started on Jan. 2, 2020 and will lead our team in providing an atmosphere and culture that will be unmatched in the Sault and surrounding area. See below for a full bio on Travis and please join us in welcoming him to the Crimson Ridge family.

Travis’ apprenticeship as a PGA of Canada Professional began in his home town at the North Bay Golf and Country Club in 2003. Upon completion of three years, he went on to spend two years with The Ridge at Manitou Golf Club near Parry Sound. During this period Travis also achieved degrees from Nipissing University in Business Administration and earned his Bachelor of Education.

Both golf courses were private but offered completely different experiences. North Bay G&CC was fast-paced while The Ridge at Manitou offered a very high-end private equity membership for an exclusive number of members.

With guidance and mentorship from his head professionals, Travis learned all aspects of the golf operations. Skills were developed in merchandising, tee sheet management, event organization, golf instruction and most importantly customer service and overall member and guest experience.

In 2008, Travis became a Class “A” Professional and relocated to Elliot Lake to pursue the position of director of golf at the newly constructed semi-private Club, Stone Ridge.

With an extremely active membership, the club was vibrant and provided an excellent opportunity to develop his leadership abilities. Travis led the golf operations team and mentored an assistant professional for three years before making his return to The Ridge at Manitou in 2011 as the head golf professional.

From 2012 to 2016 Travis held the role of director of golf and clubhouse manager at The Ridge at Manitou.

This was the best possible learning experience Travis could ask for as it exposed him to all aspects of the golf industry. From marketing and website design to golf and hospitality operations, it was an incredible opportunity at a top 40 golf club in Canada.

From 2017 to 2019 Travis’ role was to focus on the golf operations and member and guest experience. An aspect he is most proud of during his time with The Ridge at Manitou is the many relationships he’s formed with members and the local community.

Travis has always enjoyed the game of golf, whether it is a friendly round with members or competing in professional events. Golf is a passion for Travis, and he is also devoted to his role on the PGA of Canada National Board of Directors.

Travis is looking forward to meeting our great Crimson Ridge members and connecting with many golfers and community partners at the newly transformed Crimson Ridge Golf Club this season.

You’ll also find that Travis lives a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle by staying active and participating in events throughout the community. He enjoys cycling, mountain biking, skiing as well as many other indoor and outdoor activities. Travis believes in supporting and contributing to local causes that improve the environment and wellbeing of the entire community.

Professional highlights:

PGA of Canada Class ‘A’ Professional since 2008
Board Member PGA of Canada National Board of Directors
PGA of Canada Northern Ontario Assistant Professional of the Year in 2004
PGA of Canada Northern Ontario Club Professional of the Year in 2011
1st Place NOPGA Pro/Pro Championship 2005 and 2009
Certified Level IV golf instructor
Certified golf fitness instructor
Scratch golfer and avid tournament player
Host Professional Canadian Assistants Championship in 2014

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