|
CALTRAVEL / MEMBER SPOTLIGHT / JANUARY 2023
|
|
|
An Interview with Steve Thomas, General Manager of Belmont Park
|
|
|
BY SHANNON BROOKS, PRINCIPAL AT FORWØRD
|
|
Steve Thomas did not set out to work in the travel and tourism industry. But his natural instincts for hospitality, effective leadership skills, and knack for human resources landed him the dream role that he is thriving in today. For the past five years, he has served as General Manager of Belmont Park Entertainment, a multi-faceted collection of attractions in San Diego’s Mission Beach neighborhood.
|
|
|
|
Steve originally joined Belmont Park as a Maintenance Manager in 2017. “I was brought on to rebuild the maintenance department,” he recalled. “After about 10 months in that role, I was promoted to General Manager.” And he’s been actively engaged in California’s tourism industry ever since.
Steve currently serves on the California Restaurant Association board of directors as well as the board of the California Attractions & Parks Association. He’s got his finger on the pulse of what today’s travelers seek and brings a spirit of positivity and “can-do” attitude to every role he plays—be it championing his employees’ growth or being a doting father and exploring California’s great outdoors. Read on to learn more about Steve and Belmont Park.
What makes Belmont Park special?
Belmont is a unique property and does not fall into the quintessential beach boardwalk category. We have three oceanfront, full-service restaurants: Draft (American pub fare), Beach House (Mexican fare and concert venue), and Cannonball (world-class rooftop sushi). In addition to the full-service restaurants, we have the best pool and fitness facility in San Diego run by FIT Athletic. Mixed into all that, we have 20 rides and attractions—Giant Dipper, our wooden roller coaster built in 1925, is a national historic monument.
How did your experience outside of the industry uniquely equip you to succeed in hospitality, travel and tourism?
|
|
|
Prior to joining Belmont Park, I spent 15 years in leadership roles in various industries including construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas. I gained tons of experience leading teams in some of the toughest environments. Leading diverse groups of people in different settings made me the leader I am today and taught me the most important qualities of what makes a great one—take care of your people, put them in a position to thrive, and truly get to know them. It’s simple—care for your employees and care for your guests.
|
|
|
|
What career accomplishments or milestones are you most proud of?
First and foremost, I’m proud to be the General Manager of Belmont Park. During my time in this position, I’m most proud of the culture we’ve created together. We’ve built a work environment that values growth—we are always pushing for excellence, and we want our employees to succeed. It’s a culture in which individuals can thrive.
What advice would you give to a young person just starting out on their career path?
Never undervalue work ethic and a growth mindset. Those two things make anything possible.
How does your work on the board of the California Attractions & Parks Association dovetail with CalTravel’s advocacy and education work?
It’s a great fit! They both have the same mission at the core and that’s to promote and protect all the amazing things California has to offer. One of the best compliments we get is when people from other parts of the country or world come to Belmont and say, “This is exactly what I thought California would be like.” It is our responsibility to make sure all our guests experience the surf, sand, sunsets, and fun. We want people to leave with memories that touch all the senses.
What fresh or innovative opportunities do you see on the horizon for California’s attractions and parks?
I see more California attractions and parks elevating their food experience. I think the industry is starting to realize that food is a major driver and guests are looking for chef-driven food alongside the unique and active experiences.
|
|
What’s something you can share about yourself that might surprise people?
This might not be that surprising seeing as I work at a beachfront park, but I love the outdoors—hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. One thing that might genuinely surprise people is that my 9-year-old daughter and I are writing a kid’s books called Letty Spaghetti. It’s a series of misadventures and mysteries.
|
|
|
|
Where is your next California road trip or vacation/adventure taking you?
Our family loves Yosemite! I see some late spring camping and hiking there in our future.
|
|
|
Have a suggestion for a future Member Spotlight? Submit it to barb@caltravel.org
|
|
|
By Shannon Brooks, Principal at FORWØRD
|
|
|
|
|
|
