Mark Thomas,
Director of Food & Beverage
Mark was born and raised in New York State’s Hudson Valley. He began his hospitality career working for a family friend’s German bakery and restaurant. He moved on to serving and managing at a variety of restaurants throughout New York State while pursuing his college degree. Mark attended Fordham University in New York City and SUNY, New Paltz before joining a friend in Flagstaff and completed his studies at NAU. He went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude with a history and business degree.
Mark has held many positions at Forest Highlands. He started working as a Canyon Dining Room server back in 1994 and was quickly promoted to assistant manager. Working at a country club was a new work experience that quickly developed into his career pursuit. The members were incredibly friendly and truly cared about the staff. The employees and leadership team were uniquely dedicated to the club and to providing exceptional service. In 1999, when the Meadow Clubhouse was built he was offered a new position as the Food and Beverage Manager. Mark’s main responsibility was the Food and Beverage operations at the new Meadow clubhouse, which he oversaw for over 10 years. In 2010, he joined the leadership team as the Director of Food and Beverage and became responsible for all Food and Beverage operations at Forest Highlands.
Mark is a member of the Greater Southwest Chapter of the CMAA and works closely with NAU’s Student Chapter. He is currently pursuing his CCM accreditation. Mark has also taken several Wine Professional courses at the acclaimed Rudd Center at the Culinary Institute of American in Napa Valley and is studying for his Certified Wine Professional certification. Mark enjoys hiking and exploring the Southwest and feels very fortunate to be able to live in an incredible community like Flagstaff.