Jim Lewis Fired from WDWCo

[Graydon]

Glad to see the Sentinel was able to pick up and share the story on JL's departure.

He was a political vamp who hid behind Al Weiss and was yielding power he thought he had. He created his own 'fifedom' of his own diverse candidates not based on qualifications as one would have hope. He manipulated systems, processes and people for his own personal greed. He cut expenses with disregard of the outcome for his own personal gain - as you can imagine bottom line numbers at year end means a healthy bonus.

Time for his hinchmen & women to follow suit and leave what was once a incredible organization to work for - a group of people who cared only about providing an amazing product and service to DVC members. I should know - I was one of them.

I think this departure is long overdue and welcome the stewardship and kindness Karl H has bestowed upon many cast members across the world!

 

[TisBit]

I doubt it will get worse. It was pretty ugly on the inside and I've heard wonderful things about Karl Holz. Also, not mentioned in the article, Al Weiss retired a few months back and from what I understand he covered Lewis's rear end for a long time. I think Disney has finally awoken to the fact that DVC was losing it's distinction in the industry and I hope they work to replace it.

Unfortunately it doe not mean that Karl will take over DVC directly or really stand in the way of a new person that comes in with loftier ideas. Again, I will reserve judgement until we get a couple of years in with the new guy.

I would guess that Disney is making a political move in firing Lewis. First of all, very, very rarely does a company publicly state that they fired an executive. The only reason that I can think of is that Disney is trying to correct the Aulani issue with the State of Hawaii and if it's not corrected, it could cost DVD a billion dollars or more. Some reports state that Lewis was aware of the Aulani problem and he ordered sales to start anyway even though he was told by Hawaii not to.

Secondly, Karl Holtz may be flexing his muscle being Lewis's new boss and/or they had a major falling out. One thing you can be sure of is that the DVD/DVC will take on the same business attributes as the DCL and now Holtz can hand pick his new president.

I don't know that much about the DCL but maybe DVCers will at least get clean, well maintained resort rooms before 4PM with the new management.

Bill

My thoughts exactly, very rarely do you hear that someone was "fired" in this high of a position and rarely do they actually get fired vs asked to resign. I think there have been some serious issues of late, but not the ones most members are complaining about. The normal things like loss of perks, or the fact that BLT had some issues with furnishings are both causing a stir among members, but that is not something you fire the president over. Hawaii sales is MAJOR issue and an embarrassment for the Company. That is something that can get you canned, especially if there were other relatively minor things that were piled up.

Many longtime DVCers, who bought in the early days, have expressed their displeasure in how DVC has been heading in the last few yrs. I dont remember that much negativity pre Lewis days. But since he has been there, things in units have declined. By himself, no he couldnt fix those things, but he had the power to fix them by letting up on monies to do so. Refurnishing of old units, OKW alone has gotten a bad rap from its owners, especially those longtime owners.

Cheap...its the word that comes to mind for the dues we pay each year that is supposed to keep DVC at the top of the timeshare pile. Cheap is what DVC has become.

I, like so many here, feel the same about change, it might get worse. But in this case, IMO, change will be better.

I wont share my source, but a ASA our family knows has pointed out that many DVC CMs have become disgruntled about recent hires at the ASA level that are the typical pushy timeshare folks, not typical DVC/Disney type personalities. And it was causing lots of disgruntle among its "good" people. To the point of quitting.

So Lewis being gone, it will be a good thing. It will take DVC awhile to get back on top. I for one liked when we were at the top, I look forward to at least having that opportunity again.

The disgruntledness from the members to me is a lot like the normal people at WDW that say "it was so much better when....". A lot of people want to remember a time when things were just rosy and great, but a lot of times that is more imagination vs reality. In a members "honeymoon" phase of owning DVC, they are always going to be happier, but as years go by and things change, they will start complaining.

I do agree that it seems the guides have been put under a lot of pressure and some of that has been translated into more pressure on person taking a tour. I hope that this is going to be a good and productive change....and I am sure the next person in charge will remember their predecessor was fired and hopefully not make the same mistakes. The real question is what the motivation of firing him was...if they felt that he wasn't making enough money, well we are in trouble. If it is because he was mismanaging and complaints where going through the roof (costing money) and screw ups in Hawaii, well we might be in good shape as members with this change.

 

[WilsonFlyer]

I just love how the OP was tried, judged and executed on the first page. I have not read the whole thread in its entirety however I believe there are some people on here who need to seriously offer an apology to the OP.

I think it's apparent now that this person is also a long-time member under another alias here and likely a CM (and to me it's obvious he is DEEP inside DVC and/or DVD) as well. Obviously, people at Disney know him as his other alias here and at the risk of his employer knowing his identity (real alias here) and associating him with posting this news, he formed the new alias in order to post this breaking news early/first.

I certainly understand where he is "coming from" in doing this but you certainly understand our hesitancy in swallowing the hook with no questions asked of a first time poster in this community, don't you?

I don't think anybody was unreasonably harsh on him. We were just asking him to authenticate what he had claimed. Like a lot of things, it's easy to look back now and see how this all transpired but it certainly wasn't that apparent when I made my reply to him.

I certainly appreciate your sentiments but I have to say that I will likely respond exactly as I did this time next time something like this happens. I don't think your post was specifically related to my post because I don't see anything offensive in my response.

As it turns out, it's apprently true, but I'm sure everyone here understands our obvious hesitancy in accepting such a major claim as gospel from what initially appeared to everyone as a first time poster on the boards.

 

[anniet]

I don't know any specifics on HR-related issues / lawsuits so I can't comment on that. If you do, please share.

I can't share all that I know, but I can share this

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com...ey-vacation-club-time-share-sales-time-shares

What is not printed in the sentinel is those cuts were made retroactive 2 weeks - which I believe is illegal - and DVC had to put a lump sum back into the ASAs checks for that time period.

That was just one of MANY other things that you won't hear about.

Pay attention to and Trust the posts by Graydon. I think I know who that is and if I'm right, you are getting THE MOST reliable info right from the heart and soul of DVC.

 

[Oglet]

I think it's apparent now that this person is also a long-time member under another alias here and likely a CM as well. Obviously, people at Disney know him as his other alias here and at the risk of his employer knowing his identity (real alias here) and associating him with posting this news, he formed the new alias in order to post this breaking news early/first.

I certainly understand where he is "coming from" in doing this but you certainly understand our hesitancy in swallowing the hook with no questions asked of a first time poster in this community, don't you?

I don't think anybody was unreasonably harsh on him. We were just asking him to authenticate what he had claimed. Like a lot of things, it's easy to look back now and see how this all transpired but it certainly wasn't that apparent when I made my reply to him.

I certainly appreciate your sentiments but I have to say that I will likely respond exactly as I did this time next time something like this happens. I don't think your post was specifically related to my post because I don't see anything offensive in my response.

As it turns out, it's apprently true, but I'm sure everyone here understands our obvious hesitancy in accepting such a major claim as gospel from what initially appeared to everyone as a first time poster on the boards.

No, I agree with everything you said in your original post, there is nothing wrong with asking for sources and some proof at all.

I feel that some posters crossed the line because rather than say something constructive they took the approach of mocking the OP, sadly it is something that seems to be coming more and more common on here, especially with some senior members.

There are certainly ways to address concerns with a post and I feel you done yours in a very respectful and courteous manor.

 

[smjj]

I have not read the whole thread and it is so long. Can someone in the know kind of summerize what has happened in a small post fior those of us who are new to this thread??...smjj

 

[Sammie]

Glad to see the Sentinel was able to pick up and share the story on JL's departure.

He was a political vamp who hid behind Al Weiss and was yielding power he thought he had. He created his own 'fifedom' of his own diverse candidates not based on qualifications as one would have hope. He manipulated systems, processes and people for his own personal greed. He cut expenses with disregard of the outcome for his own personal gain - as you can imagine bottom line numbers at year end means a healthy bonus.

Time for his hinchmen & women to follow suit and leave what was once a incredible organization to work for - a group of people who cared only about providing an amazing product and service to DVC members. I should know - I was one of them.

I think this departure is long overdue and welcome the stewardship and kindness Karl H has bestowed upon many cast members across the world!

I know for a fact that expenses were cut on the selection of product for BLT, even though he was warned by the selection team that these products would not last. He was not the least concerned and had an attitude of as long as it looks good while selling I don't care if they have to pay later to replace it.

I feel the same was done for OKW. The redo looked cheap.

 

[Corinne]

While I had no idea this was coming down the pipe, the fact that Al Weiss suddenly without any warning up and retired and then Karl Holz was made JL's boss, I had a feeling somethinig was not right in DVCland. It will be very interesting to watch.

I thought the exact same thing with the announcement of Holz becoming Lewis' boss. While others have cautioned, not to celebrate just yet, I do hope this is a step in the right direction. Only time will tell!

 

[granmanh603]

Many longtime DVCers, who bought in the early days, have expressed their displeasure in how DVC has been heading in the last few yrs. I dont remember that much negativity pre Lewis days. But since he has been there, things in units have declined. By himself, no he couldnt fix those things, but he had the power to fix them by letting up on monies to do so. Refurnishing of old units, OKW alone has gotten a bad rap from its owners, especially those longtime owners.

Cheap...its the word that comes to mind for the dues we pay each year that is supposed to keep DVC at the top of the timeshare pile. Cheap is what DVC has become.

I, like so many here, feel the same about change, it might get worse. But in this case, IMO, change will be better.

I wont share my source, but a ASA our family knows has pointed out that many DVC CMs have become disgruntled about recent hires at the ASA level that are the typical pushy timeshare folks, not typical DVC/Disney type personalities. And it was causing lots of disgruntle among its "good" people. To the point of quitting.

So Lewis being gone, it will be a good thing. It will take DVC awhile to get back on top. I for one liked when we were at the top, I look forward to at least having that opportunity again.

Boy I agree with you. I have felt that things have gone downhill since he came on board but I feel that about Iger too. I know people hated Eisner but at least I always felt he cared about WDW , don't feel that way about Iger...

 

[LauraLea]

I think it's apparent now that this person is also a long-time member under another alias here and likely a CM (and to me it's obvious he is DEEP inside DVC and/or DVD) as well. Obviously, people at Disney know him as his other alias here and at the risk of his employer knowing his identity (real alias here) and associating him with posting this news, he formed the new alias in order to post this breaking news early/first.

I certainly understand where he is "coming from" in doing this but you certainly understand our hesitancy in swallowing the hook with no questions asked of a first time poster in this community, don't you?

I don't think anybody was unreasonably harsh on him. We were just asking him to authenticate what he had claimed. Like a lot of things, it's easy to look back now and see how this all transpired but it certainly wasn't that apparent when I made my reply to him.

I certainly appreciate your sentiments but I have to say that I will likely respond exactly as I did this time next time something like this happens. I don't think your post was specifically related to my post because I don't see anything offensive in my response.

As it turns out, it's apprently true, but I'm sure everyone here understands our obvious hesitancy in accepting such a major claim as gospel from what initially appeared to everyone as a first time poster on the boards.

Agree.

but Oglet should have read the entire thread BEFORE she started throwing flames. Apoligies were given early on.

Laura

 

[jimmytammy]

His replacement has been chosen, I am sure even before Jim was let go. No I don't know who it is, but was told the announcement will be made soon.

My biggest complaint with Jim was that in the beginning he was very much for the membership and implemented some good improvements. Then it was like the glory of being head of DVC, went to his head and he thought himself above everyone. That he could do and say whatever and no one could check him on it and his agenda became self promotion over what was good for DVC.

I think the Aulani situation was just the final straw in a building dissatisfaction from many factors.

I had the chance meet with him at VWl maybe 2 months after he took over. At that time, he seemed genuine. He asked if I was an owner and asked my opinion of DVC. He was very cordial to me, and seemed sincere in his asking. I agree, like so many, Eisner included, the title takes over, it goes to their heads, and they become bigger than they need to be. Great leaders know to look to those under them for advice, help, etc. Great leaders become that way because they have great people under them. Lewis lost sight of that quickly, if he ever knew it in the 1st place. DVC was great before he got there. Hoping for greatness again!!

 

[Deb & Bill]

I guess you'll all have me to thank. After the Deevy Cee issue of Disney Files, I sent a long letter to DVC. That must have done the trick.


(yeah, right)

 

[jimmytammy]

Boy I agree with you. I have felt that things have gone downhill since he came on board but I feel that about Iger too. I know people hated Eisner but at least I always felt he cared about WDW , don't feel that way about Iger...

To me, the jury is still out on Iger. He hasnt done anything earth shaking that I know of, good or bad in his tenure, IMO. But he is at the top, and its tough to rid someone at that position. Look at what it took to get Eisner out, and how long. People at the top of any business, organization, etc. always take the criticism, but its understood up front it will be that way. Lewis was his own demise, Eisner was his own worst enemy as he micro managed himself into a deep hole, and Iger will probably work himself into a hole of some making of his own. I agree with you that Iger is not like Eisner in his passion for Disney, at least not publicly.

Dont mean to steer this in a different direction, just comparing leadership roles to those of Lewis. IMO, parallels are that leadership goes to peoples heads.

 

[jimmytammy]

I guess you'll all have me to thank. After the Deevy Cee issue of Disney Files, I sent a long letter to DVC. That must have done the trick.


(yeah, right)

Thanks Deb

 

[Deb & Bill]

Thanks Deb

And you get a big YOU'RE WELCOME from me, Jimmy.

 

[cgcw]

Those of us on both the 2005 and 2006 Member Cruises saw a major change in him. In 2005 he always had a smile and would stop and talk with anyone and everyone. In 2006 he was constantly surrounded by his people, tried to avoid guests at all costs and even lied outright to some saying there was no 2007 Member Cruise booked even though everyone knew there was (and it was announced a few weeks later but with a different booking only for those who hadn't sailed before). I lost respect for him after that cruise.

Here's hoping DVC has a brighter future with whoever they get to replace him.

Very true ---- but at least I got a picture of the two of us together.

 

[DebbieB]

His replacement has been chosen, I am sure even before Jim was let go. No I don't know who it is, but was told the announcement will be made soon.

My biggest complaint with Jim was that in the beginning he was very much for the membership and implemented some good improvements. Then it was like the glory of being head of DVC, went to his head and he thought himself above everyone. That he could do and say whatever and no one could check him on it and his agenda became self promotion over what was good for DVC.

I think the Aulani situation was just the final straw in a building dissatisfaction from many factors.

I agree. One of the first things he did was get the $100 AP discount. Members were asking for an AP discount for years, hoping for just 10% like the old length of stay. When it came out, the $100 discount was around 25%, which was awesome! But then it has gone downhill. The valet parking fiasco was bad. How can you have someone parking their car at night when it's free and then being charged to pick it up in the morning? They couldn't have announced it and made it effective in a week? Or told people when they left the car? It's not that it was alot of money but it was an underhanded way of doing business.

I had a feeling something was wrong when so many guides (including mine) suddenly "retired".

 

[goofydad99]

I agree. One of the first things he did was get the $100 AP discount. Members were asking for an AP discount for years, hoping for just 10% like the old length of stay. When it came out, the $100 discount was around 25%, which was awesome! But then it has gone downhill. The valet parking fiasco was bad. How can you have someone parking their car at night when it's free and then being charged to pick it up in the morning? They couldn't have announced it and made it effective in a week? Or told people when they left the car? It's not that it was alot of money but it was an underhanded way of doing business.

I had a feeling something was wrong when so many guides (including mine) suddenly "retired".

We don't know what happened to our original guide. We suddenly just had a new one. How do you figure out what happened to them?

 

[Sammie]

We don't know what happened to our original guide. We suddenly just had a new one. How do you figure out what happened to them?

You won't unless you were close enough to your guide they contacted you as our did.

 

[twinboysmom]

I guess you'll all have me to thank. After the Deevy Cee issue of Disney Files, I sent a long letter to DVC. That must have done the trick.


(yeah, right)

Thanks for taking care of that Deb! I know everyone hates Disney files. I wouldn't know because dvc can't seem to get it to me. That last person I talked to was clueless and said maybe I don't have enough points for it. Really? I have 200 btw. Our new guide called the other day. I asked him to help us get it. He said he couldn't help with that. I hope he is waiting by the phone for that 200 point add on I want.