Celebrating the Heart of Sundial: Our 15+ Year Team Members
At Sundial, we are lucky to have a team that feels less like coworkers and more like family. And like any great family, we’re built on a foundation of long-lasting loyalty and dedication. These dedicated individuals have been part of our story through hurricanes, remodels, busy seasons, and countless sunsets. They’ve built relationships with guests, helped each other through challenges, and kept the heart of Sundial beating strong.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on those who have been with us 15 years or more, sharing their stories, memories, and what keeps them coming back for more.
Danny: The Omelet Guy
Joining us in 1991, Danny has been a pillar of our Food & Beverage department for over three decades. He arrives at 4:30 AM every morning to begin preparing breakfast for our guests.
“This is my place,” he told us. “Other chefs have tried to entice me to leave, but I love the atmosphere here and plan on staying until I retire.”
For many of our returning guests, a Sundial breakfast isn’t complete without a stop at Danny’s station. He loves the art of cooking and enjoys interacting with guests, often making them his personal favorite omelet – one with “a little bit of everything” in it.
Sammy: Full Circle Chef
Joining us in 2003, Sammy’s journey through Sundial is a story of versatility. When Sammy first started, it was as a hibachi chef at Sundial’s FIRST Japenese Steakhouse, Noopies. He has worked in Food & Beverage, Engineering, and as our Safety Officer, before finally returning to his passion as a hibachi chef at Shima.
When asked why he’s stayed, he says, “I love the atmosphere, everyone is friendly, and the location. I feel like I’m on vacation every time I cross the causeway and come to work.” His favorite part of the job is meeting new people and making them happy with his cooking.
Mike: Mr. Fix-It
Mike has been an integral part of the Sundial family since 2007. Starting as an engineer, he has risen to the role of Director of Engineering. He has worked with five different General Managers over the years, guiding the resort through major remodels and, most recently, the massive rebuild after Hurricane Ian. Mike was a leader among the hardworking employee cleanup crew, and his dedication helped get us back on our feet.
“I love that each day brings something new; it is never boring,” Mike says. He enjoys the problem-solving aspect of his job and the opportunity to help every department.
Jean: The Boss of the Beach
Since 2007, Jean has been a beloved face in our Recreation Department. His day starts at 5:30 AM with the heavy lifting of setting up our beach cabanas, kayaks, and paddleboards—ensuring every guest has a perfect start to their day. Jean also joined our dedicated employee cleanup crew following Hurricane Ian.
Jean’s favorite part of his job is the interaction with guests. “There are many families who have been coming for years,” he says. “I have seen their families grow up and look forward to welcoming them back every year.”
Javier: The Team Player
Javier, who joined us in 2008, has worked in a number of departments, from Recreation to Engineering Manager. Like many on this list, he was an integral part of our hardworking employee cleanup and construction crew after Hurricane Ian.
“Sundial just sucks you in!” he jokes. “It’s a family-oriented atmosphere with good people who all help each other to get things done. Because of that, we all work hard and go above and beyond.” As Engineering Manager, he loves working with all the different people and departments on the property.
Elmener: Our own Mr. Clean
Starting in 2008, Elmener has worked in Housekeeping, Owner Services, Engineering, and Recreation, before returning to his passion in Housekeeping.
Elmener loves the work and takes great pride in keeping things clean and organized. He credits the great company and promotion opportunities as reasons for his loyalty. Elmener also played a crucial role on our cleanup and construction crew after Hurricane Ian.
Jader: The Jack of all Trades
Jader has been a part of the Sundial family since 2008 and has worked in Housekeeping, Banquets, Recreation, and the Front Desk before settling in Engineering. He was also part of the employee cleanup crew following Hurricane Ian.
Jader likes the fun-to-work-with Sundial team and the island atmosphere. He enjoys his current position as Engineering Supervisor because he gets to fix things and make sure our beautiful units are guest-ready.
To All of Our Sundial Veterans
Your years of dedication, hard work, and heart are what make this resort more than just a place to stay — you make it a place to belong. From hurricane recovery crews to everyday guest service, you’ve shown that Sundial’s strength is in its people.
Here’s to you — and to all the team members whose 15-year milestone is just around the corner. We can’t wait to celebrate you next!
