About Brandon
Hi there, I'm Brandon Blitz - an experienced and results-driven operations executive with a passion for developing and leading teams through growth, change, and new business processes.
Throughout my career, I've built a track record of success in executive leadership, operational excellence, strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and communication. I pride myself on building strong relationships by fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture for all employees and external stakeholders.
In my most recent role as Chief of Staff at Drive Shack, I successfully developed and launched the Puttery experience from the ground up, and implemented the company's first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council and program.
Prior to that, I held various leadership roles, including Vice President of Operations and Vice President of New Venue Openings, where I partnered with the CEO to transform the traditional golf business into an entertainment operating company.
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Professional Experience
2022-2023
Chief of Staff
Drive Shack
Successfully developed and expanded the Puttery experience, opening six venues and achieving an annual run-rate of approximately $60 million. Implemented various initiatives, including a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council that increased employee engagement by 22%, a new menu and pricing strategy resulting in a 15% increase in average spend, and a secret shopper program that improved Guest Satisfaction Scores by 17%. Additionally, led the implementation of a performance evaluation process, a learning management system roll-out with 85% user adoption, and served as a trusted liaison between the CEO and executive team while fostering positive relationships throughout the organization.
2019-2022
Head of Business Operations
Drive Shack
Partnered with the CEO to transition a REIT-based golf business into an entertainment operating company, achieving record-breaking annual revenue of approximately $300 million. Led a remarkable revenue growth of around 2,500% in the entertainment golf sector, expanding from $3.5 million to a run-rate of over $90 million annually. Successfully accomplished company targets of maintaining labor costs below 18% and Food & Beverage COGS below 25% at all venues within three months of each opening, while overseeing a high-ranking team and managing all aspects of venue operations, financials, and expansion efforts.
2014-2018
National Openings Operations Manager
TOP GOLF USA
Successfully opened and managed over 25 national venues within budget, handling build budgets ranging from $30 million to $75 million and revenue budgets between $20 million and $50 million per venue. Orchestrated cross-functional communication between Operations, IT, Construction, Marketing, and Sales departments to ensure alignment on schedules and expectations. Developed comprehensive pre-opening events and oversaw the hiring, training, and professional development of approximately 450 associates per venue, while driving engagement, culture, and compliance through initiatives, training programs, and operational manuals.