Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa Announces New General Manager

After 11 years as the Resort’s General Manager, Tom announced his retirement effective January 1, 2023 after 40+ years in the hospitality industry. He passes the torch to Lisa Jaager who seamlessly moves into the General Manager’s role after being the Assistant General Manager for 3 years.

Tom will continue to be involved with the Resort as President of Tepic Management Co, the property management company that has managed the resort since it’s opening in 2005.

Lisa’s involvement with the resort goes back to 2012 when she joined the team as a part-time Sales Coordinator to cover a maternity leave. Her dedication to service and bringing groups together shone and she moved into the role of Sales Manager. In sales, she was involved with many other hotel departments, gaining insight and knowledge in the characteristics of the Resort operation.

What really grabbed a hold of her and increased her desire to manage and lead is the relationships with the guests, the owners, and above all, the operations team.

“Working with Tom, who has 40 years of hospitality expertise, has been a gift. I have learned invaluable principles and approaches that will stay with me for a lifetime”, says Lisa about her years as the Assistant General Manager alongside Tom Matthews.

Looking ahead, Lisa Jaager sets her sights on setting new goals to build upon the excellent foundation of guest-centric service, staff culture, teamwork, and genuine care for all people, guests and staff, who experience Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa.

“We know what we do well, what our guests love, and why our staff stay as part of our team. We have our foot on the gas in that we are focused on improving that exceptional guest experience – the things that make people want to stay again and again. Our goal is to be part of people’s life stories”, Lisa shares with enthusiasm and passion.

Living in Summerland since 1994, and raising her family there, she is “Summerland proud”. As much as she loves the area, she has made a hobby of seeking out inspiration in design, decor, food, and drink during her stays at other hotels and dining experiences.

While it’s true that Lisa didn’t start out seeking a career in hospitality, it is true that this new appointment as General Manager of the Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is an ideal fit.