Summer One-On-One with Joseph Elwell Bonita Bay Club's Assistant GM: Balancing Tradition with Innovation

What does it take to rise from busboy to Assistant General Manager at one of Florida's premier private clubs? Joseph Elwell's remarkable 22-year journey at Bonita Bay Club reveals the dedication, adaptability, and passion required to excel in club management.

Following in his father's footsteps, Joseph began his hospitality career at just 17 years old, washing dishes and bussing tables at Bonita Bay Club. What started as a test to see if he'd enjoy the industry blossomed into a lifelong vocation. Through rotations across departments—from scraping tennis courts to maintaining golf course bunkers—Joseph gained a holistic understanding of club operations that now serves him well in his leadership role.

As Assistant General Manager, Joseph's responsibilities extend far beyond what members typically see. While food and beverage operations fall under his purview, he also oversees sports and lifestyle amenities including the spa, salon, and fitness facilities. His days are unpredictable, requiring flexibility to address everything from staff conflicts to service issues across the club's extensive amenities.

The club's highly seasonal nature presents unique challenges, with 80% of activity occurring during just six months of the year. Balancing peak-season excellence with year-round value requires careful planning and resource management. Joseph approaches innovation thoughtfully, viewing new technologies as tools to enhance rather than replace human connection. The club's willingness to test new ideas while respecting traditions demonstrates its commitment to evolution without losing its identity.

What truly distinguishes Bonita Bay Club, according to Joseph, is its exceptional people—both the 600+ staff members who deliver memorable experiences and the uniquely warm, genuine membership. With over 240 team members boasting five or more years of tenure, the club has cultivated a culture of excellence that perpetuates itself. 

For those considering a career in club management, Joseph offers straightforward advice: do the work, get your hands dirty, and master each step before moving to the next. His own journey stands as testament to the rewards of this approach.

Chapters

• 0:01 Welcome to Joseph Elwell
• 1:10 From Busboy to Club Management
• 4:35 Behind the Scenes Role
• 7:10 Managing Seasonal Challenges
• 8:50 Balancing Tradition and Innovation
• 11:50 What Sets Bonita Bay Apart
• 13:30 Improving Member Experience
• 15:50 Staff Culture and Leadership
• 20:30 Future Direction and Closing Thoughts