Terri Haack has a knack for all things hospitality. After being away from Isle of Palms since 2007, she was recently lured back to the Wild Dunes Resort to take over operations as its new managing director. Her return comes after serving 22 years in different roles with Lowe Enterprises, a private real estate company headquartered in Los Angeles.
“Terri has been an invaluable asset to the firm and has brought great value to our hospitality assets and relationships over the past two decades,” said Bob Lowe, co-CEO with Lowe Enterprises. “She began her career with us at Wild Dunes Resort, so in a way, this next move will be like going home for her.”
Haack began her new position on May 6, but in many ways she didn’t seek the job, the job sought her. Lowe is part owner and managing partner for Wild Dunes and Hyatt operates the resort.
“So when the Hyatt managing director left in March 2024, Hyatt asked me to become an employee to further my influence on the property,” Haack said.
Haack then assisted Lowe and majority owner Dart with community and governmental issues for the next 18 months – representing Wild Dunes at IOP City Council meetings and sharing input regarding noise ordinances and short-term rental licenses.
When the resort needed a new managing director, Haack was the most obvious choice. “While I was reluctant to leave Lowe, I am thrilled to be joining Hyatt.”
From the beginning, circa 1978, Haack had no desire for anything but hospitality. Her ambition led to roles such as property general manager, managing director, senior vice president and president of the Los Angeles Terranea Resort, which she opened in 2007.
“The hospitality industry grew into a lifelong passion during my humble first job at the old Stapleton Denver Airport in a food court at 15 and a half years old,” Haack said. “To be successful in the hospitality industry you must commit to be ‘all in’ and find joy to be of service when everyone else is on holiday.”
Haack is now responsible for all Wild Dunes resort operations, two Hyatt hotels, vacation rentals, golf, spa, tennis, a conference center, all food and beverage, beach activities and anything else that happens to arise.
With the summer beach season upon us, both visitors short-term and daily will range between 20,000-60,000 per day. While that might sound daunting to most people, Haack has her sleeves rolled up, a smile on her face and is enthusiastic about being back in a place that she never really left.
“I don’t believe I would have done this anywhere else,” Haack added. “I love Wild Dunes and the City of Isle of Palms.”
By L. C. Leach III
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