In the bustling city of Pensacola, Florida, where the Gulf Coast's emerald waters kiss powdery white sands, a dynamic entrepreneur named Kevin is reshaping the landscape of vacation rentals. Born in Atlanta and a graduate of Georgia State University, Kevin's journey into the world of hospitality was sparked by an elective course in Tradeshow Management, a decision that set the stage for a remarkable career.
Kevin's initial exposure to the industry came through an internship at Portofino Island Resort, selected among 40 other interns from across the country. That summer in Pensacola Beach, a place he had never visited before, became a pivotal chapter in his life. His natural talent for sales shone brightly, leading him to be the first to sell club memberships at Portofino, marking the start of his successful career in hospitality.
However, it was a call from the owner of a property management company that brought Kevin back to Pensacola in 2010, coinciding with the oil spill crisis. It was here that Kevin truly honed his skills, transitioning from restaurant work to becoming a masterful sales director, managing over 300 condos and ensuring their occupancy.
A crucial turning point in Kevin's career came a decade later when he stood at a crossroads: venture into medical sales or embrace the world of property management. Influenced by his sister's words, emphasizing the choice between being another corporate employee or pursuing the American dream of business ownership, Kevin chose the latter. This decision led to the birth of Foxy Vacations, a name inspired by an affectionate nickname given by a Portofino owner and a testament to Kevin's unique and engaging business style.
Kevin's journey as an entrepreneur wasn't without its challenges. The transition from a sales-centric role to a multifaceted business owner, especially during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic, tested his resilience and adaptability. The pandemic hit hard, halving his inventory and nearly bringing his business to the brink of closure. However, a fortuitous investment from a Californian investor during this critical period not only saved his business but also propelled it to new heights.
With a keen understanding of the real estate market, Kevin expanded his horizons into property development. He now manages a diverse portfolio, including eight employees and over 50 properties across various locations. His involvement in real estate has led to significant projects like Covington Place, Romano Residences, and 101 Bayshore, blending his expertise in hospitality with real estate acumen.
Kevin's personal life is as dynamic as his professional one. A lover of sports, he enjoys attending events from college football to F1 racing, finding joy in the adrenaline and excitement of the action. His philosophy of life is reflected in his work ethic, where he sees no clear divide between work and leisure, embracing both with equal enthusiasm.
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Kevin's advice is grounded in the reality of entrepreneurship: the necessity of resilience, readiness for adversity, and the importance of bouncing back from setbacks. He draws inspiration from his parents and former bosses, who instilled in him the aspiration to own a business and the values required to succeed.
Looking ahead, Kevin has ambitious plans for 2024, including developments near Water Street in downtown Pensacola, focusing on individual residences and affordable housing. His story is not just a tale of business success but a narrative of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of a dream, making him a true exemplar in the vacation rental industry and beyond.
