Puttshack expands executive team; poised for rapid expansion
The entertainment concept, which combines tech-infused mini-golf with food and drink in a high-energy environment, has added two new members to its senior leadership ranks as it continues to expand its U.S. footprint.
The tech-driven mini-golf/dining brand has appointed Susan Burke as as its first general counsel and chief risk officer. It also named Rocio DeJesus as head of people & talent. They will both report directly to Puttshack CEO Joe Vrankin.
In September 2022, Puttshack closed on a growth capital round of $150 million from funds managed by BlackRock, Inc. The new capital, which follows a $60 million funding round from Promethean Investments in 2021, will allow Puttshack to expand into more top markets across the U.S., as well as invest in new technologies to enhance the overall guest experience.
Opening announced for 2023 include Natick Mall, Natick, Mass.; las; Denver; Houston; Nashville, Tenn.; Philadelphia; Pittsburgh; Scottsdale, Ariz.; St. Louis; and a second location in Atlanta.
"Last year's growth investment by BlackRock afforded us the opportunity to search the marketplace and go after top talent in their respective fields who will be able to make an immediate impact in helping Puttshack achieve our aggressive growth," said Vrankin.
As chief risk officer, Burke brings a wealth of experience in handling complex legal contracts and negotiations. Prior to joining Puttshack, she spent more than 20 years as a Partner at Chicago-based law firm Pedersen & Houpt, where she worked with a wide array of clients.
"Susan's extensive legal experience better positions Puttshack and our partners as we enter a crucial phase of our growth strategy,” said Vrankin. “Her expertise will be critical as we quickly move to establish our brand in key markets.”
Prior to joining Puttshack, DeJesus previously led the talent acquisition department at Martin-Brower, where she was responsible for developing the strategy and building out the new department ramping up the Talent Acquisition team from four to 20 employees and was integral in supporting recruitment efforts across departments including corporate (300 employees) and field (6500 employees).
" We’re bolstering our talent acquisition efforts and are confident Rocio's expertise in both talent acquisition and developing and executing employee satisfaction efforts will allow Puttshack to be named an employer of choice where everyone, from in-venue associates all the way to our in-house design team, feels firmly supported and believes in Puttshack values,” said Vrankin.
Since opening its first location in 2018, Puttshack has opened eight U.S. locations, in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Miami, Denver, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis. It also has four London locations.