As part of the fun surrounding our 50th anniversary, Golfweek will be walking down Memory Lane with a number of former employees who helped make the brand what it is today.
We continue our series with one of the many ad specialists who has worked for Golfweek through the years, Mary Dees.
When did you work at Golfweek?
Mary Dees was part of the Golfweek team from 2006 to 2016, a decade that saw significant transitions in the golf industry and journalism realms.
What was your Golfweek title, and what did you do?
As the Southeast Regional and International Sales Manager, Mary focused on expanding Golfweek’s advertising reach. Her responsibilities included nurturing client relationships and strategizing marketing initiatives tailored for both regional and international markets. This role was crucial, especially during a time when digital marketing was beginning to take precedence over traditional print advertising.
Mary Dees was a Golfweek ad rep, including international sales, for a decade.
What’s your current title and company?
Mary currently is the Owner of Rapid Estate Liquidators and Auction Gallery. This entrepreneurial venture allows her to apply her extensive sales and management experience to a different industry, showcasing her versatility and skill set.
What’s the one moment you’re proudest of while working with Golfweek?
One of Mary’s proudest achievements during her time at Golfweek was the successful entrance and growth of the digital market, extending beyond traditional print media. She spearheaded initiatives that revitalized the Rater Program by organizing exceptional events in stunning destinations, thereby engaging more audiences and enhancing Golfweek’s digital presence.
What’s the ‘hair-on-fire’ moment you remember most vividly?
Mary recounted a particularly memorable incident involving a family of monkeys while she was on a golf course in Barbados. What seemed like a humorous encounter now was quite daunting at the time. Additionally, she had an unforgettable “5-minute” introduction to Donald Trump, which unexpectedly turned into an extended meeting filled with laughs and even a photo shoot.
What’s your favorite golf course you’ve played and why?
Mary has many favorites, but she particularly cherishes Querencia in Cabo and the stunning courses in the Dominican Republic. She also holds a soft spot for the remarkable courses in the Kohler, Wisconsin area and Calusa Pines Golf Club in South Florida. Each of these venues presented a unique blend of challenges and breathtaking scenery, making her feel privileged to play on some of the world’s best courses.
(Editor’s note: We appreciate all the former employees who have contributed time and effort to this feature. The golf journalism community is a small one, and we’re proud of the achievements of all our former colleagues.)
This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Golfweek 50th anniversary memories: International sales rep Mary Dees