I’m a senior VP in hospitality making $230K a year—here’s how I’ve set my family up for success

Real people. Real finances. From six-figure earners to side hustlers, BCBusiness's Money Makers is pulling back the curtain on how British Columbians really make, spend and think about money—no filters, just facts.

At 62, a senior vice-president in Delta has found his financial rhythm after more than three decades in the hospitality industry. Earning about $230,000 a year—including a healthy annual bonus—he’s built a life that balances comfort and restraint. He still splurges on the things he loves (golf tops the list) but avoids unnecessary tech or lifestyle creep. A mix of discipline and planning—plus an early foothold in the Lower Mainland housing market—has given him the confidence to approach retirement on his own terms. 

For him, wealth isn’t about flash or status; it’s about legacy. After years of hard work and careful saving, he’s focused less on chasing more and more on setting his family up for success. “Don’t live beyond your reach,” he says, “but also don’t be mortgage poor. Enjoy your life.” 

  • Age: 62 
  • Location: Delta 
  • Industry: Hospitality 
  • Role: Senior Vice President 
  • Pronouns: He/him 
  • Total annual income: $230,000 

Income 

  • Annual salary: $180,000 
  • Bonuses: $50,000 
  • Benefits: Extended healthcare, life insurance, commuting subsidy, fitness stipends 

 

Do you feel fairly paid for what you do?

Yes, compensated fairly

Name one item you splurge on, regardless of your budget.

Golf

What’s something you refuse to spend money on?

Useless technology or software

Do you use a financial advisor, app, spreadsheet—or vibes?

Both financial advisor and internal spreadsheet

How has living in your city/neighbourhood impacted your financial choices?

Lived in Lower Mainland 30+ years so got in market earlier so no impact—my kids and impact on them is another story.

Do you ever find yourself concerned about money or financial security? If you’re comfortable sharing, what contributes to that?

No, I have worked long and hard to set us up.

How, if at all, are you approaching retirement planning right now?

I have made a date decision, but not sure if I will choose full-time retirement, or one day a week/month.

Is there a job you secretly admire for the pay or lifestyle?

Professional athlete

How do you define financial success? What does being“rich” mean to you?

I live comfortably, but rich is not my legacy. My legacy is my family and setting them up for success.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned about work and finances that you think others in your industry could benefit from? 

Don’t live beyond your reach, but also do not be mortgage poor, enjoy your life. 

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The Editors

The Editors

The BCBusiness editorial team lives for big ideas, bold entrepreneurs and the business stories that make B.C. tick.