Kristine Haines
Kristine Haines is a dedicated hospitality professional currently serving as the Oasis Manager at Heritage Palms Golf & Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida. With a background in nursing and a passion for service, Kristine brings a unique blend of care, precision, and leadership to her role. She oversees daily operations, leads a talented team, and ensures that members and guests experience the highest level of hospitality and comfort. Her commitment to excellence was recognized in 2021 when she was honored as Employee of the Year by Heritage Palms Golf & Country Club.
Kristine is deeply invested in professional growth and continuous learning. She is currently pursuing her CMAA Certification and Accreditation, a prestigious six-year program through the Club Management Association of America, which reflects her dedication to advancing her expertise in club management and leadership. Actively involved with the Florida Chapter CMAA, she values the opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and contribute to the future of the private club industry. Her leadership style emphasizes teamwork, mentorship, and communication, helping her team thrive in a collaborative and service-driven environment.
Outside of work, Kristine enjoys a fulfilling personal life rooted in family and the outdoors. Married for 14 years, she and her husband share their home with two beloved dogs. When she’s not at the club, she loves spending time on the water and paddleboarding—activities that reflect her appreciation for balance, peace, and connection. Guided by honesty, integrity, and a drive for continuous improvement, Kristine strives each day to leave a lasting positive impact on her team, her members, and her community.
• Employee of the Year 2021
• Florida Chapter CMAA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a commitment to continuous improvement and personal growth. Each day, I strive to be better than I was before, guided by valuable advice from a former manager—to always leave things better than I found them. This mindset has shaped my approach to leadership, teamwork, and service, driving me to make a positive impact in every role I take on.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from a former manager who told me, “I’m not hard on you because you’re not good. I know you’re good. I push you because I want you to be great.” That message has stayed with me throughout my career, reminding me that constructive challenges are opportunities for growth and that true leadership inspires others to reach their full potential.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to have a backbone, use your voice, and believe in yourself. Confidence and self-assurance are essential to navigating challenges and earning respect. Trust your abilities, stand firm in your values, and never be afraid to speak up your perspective and leadership have the power to make a lasting impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in our field right now is bringing together different generations in the workplace. Hiring and retention can be difficult when values, communication styles, and work habits vary so widely. However, these differences also create an incredible opportunity for growth. When we take the time to understand one another and leverage each generation’s strengths, we can build stronger, more cohesive teams that deliver exceptional results.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty and integrity. I believe in being truthful, transparent, and consistent in my actions, no matter the situation. These principles guide how I lead, communicate, and build relationships, ensuring that trust and respect remain at the heart of everything I do.