Ramses "Rams" Meijer has established himself as a highly effective operator within the fintech and travel industries, managing large multi-million-dollar enterprises with precision and strategic foresight. His expertise spans a wide range of online technology components, including product management, marketing, sales, analytics, business development, call center management, and operations. His ability to lead large, geographically dispersed teams has enabled him to drive rapid optimizations, foster sustainable growth, and implement long-term strategies that have consistently delivered results. His comprehensive approach to business management ensures that all aspects of the companies he leads work in harmony, ultimately leading to enhanced efficiency and profitability.
Leadership and Growth at WerkMagic
Harnessing his extensive experience in various industries, Meijer founded WerkMagic, a full-service property management, marketing, and consulting firm based in North Carolina. As the owner and CEO, he has infused WerkMagic with his deep knowledge of sales and marketing strategy, people management, company culture, and organizational leadership. His leadership has positioned WerkMagic as a critical player in the short-term rental market, offering a range of services tailored to the needs of property owners. Under his guidance, WerkMagic is set to experience significant growth, leveraging his expertise to expand its footprint and deliver unparalleled value to its clients. His vision for the company is rooted in a commitment to excellence and a desire to provide comprehensive solutions that meet the evolving demands of the industry.
Significant Achievements at LendingTree
During his nearly five-year tenure at LendingTree, Ramses's talents were quickly recognized, leading to a series of promotions that culminated in his role as Senior Vice President of General Management Operations. Starting as General Manager responsible for credit cards, student loans, and auto loans, his strategic insight and operational expertise led to his oversight of all of LendingTree's lending marketplace businesses. He managed an impressive $700 million in annual revenue, with full ownership of the P&L, business strategy, operations, and execution. The LendingTree Marketplace, comprising ten business lines and six brands, thrived under his leadership. His ability to lead core vertical teams—encompassing general managers, product, sales, marketing, analytics, finance, and tech—resulted in the successful delivery of strategies that drove growth across the board. His work in integrating acquired brands and optimizing business loans and credit card verticals further solidified his reputation as a strategic leader capable of navigating complex challenges with ease.
Innovative Leadership at Expedia Group
Before joining LendingTree, Ramses Meijer spent six impactful years at Expedia Group, where he held several key roles, including General Manager of North American brands such as Orbitz, Travelocity, and CheapTickets. His tenure at Expedia was marked by his innovative approach to brand management, launching forward-thinking campaigns that resonated with a broad audience. Campaigns like "Just Like That," "Travel with Pride," and "Santas in Santa Monica" showcased his ability to align brand messaging with cultural trends, thereby enhancing brand visibility and engagement. His leadership and creative vision were instrumental in driving the success of these brands, reflecting his ability not only to manage but also to elevate the brands under his care. His rapid rise within Expedia, with three promotions in six years, is a testament to his ability to deliver results and drive growth in highly competitive markets.
A Strong Foundation in Hotel Sales and Marketing
Meijer's career began in the hotel sales and marketing industry, where he spent 14 years honing his skills in some of the most prestigious hotels across the globe. His roles included Senior Sales Manager at InterContinental DC & Chicago, Director of Sales at Omni Hotels Dallas, Director of Sales & Marketing at Bel Air Hotel The Hague, and Director of Sales at The Langham Hotel Chicago. This extensive background provided him with a deep understanding of customer service, brand management, and sales strategies, laying the groundwork for his later success in the fintech and travel industries. His ability to navigate the competitive landscape of hotel sales and marketing allowed him to develop a keen sense of what drives consumer behavior, a skill that he has leveraged throughout his career to deliver exceptional results in every role he has undertaken.
Personal Life and Global Perspective
Born in Doetinchem, The Netherlands, Ramses has cultivated a global perspective that has greatly influenced his personal and professional life. He attended NHL Stenden Hotel Management School and moved to the United States in 1999 to complete his bachelor's degree in hospitality, which included a year-long internship with the Ritz-Carlton Company. Fluent in English, Dutch, and German, his life and career have taken him across multiple countries and cities, including Doetinchem, Leeuwarden, Atlanta, Washington, DC, Chicago, Dallas, and Charlotte. He is married to April, and together, they have a daughter, Maxime, and two dogs, Riley and Remy. He is actively involved in his daughter's academic and sports activities, coaching her YMCA volleyball and soccer teams. The family shares a love for travel and outdoor adventures, frequently exploring new destinations and enjoying nature, particularly the Carolina Mountains and their annual ski trips to Utah and Colorado.
Passion for Sports and Athletic Pursuits
Sports have always been a significant part of Ramses Meijer's life. Growing up in the Netherlands, soccer was an integral part of his upbringing, and he continued to play the sport until the age of 33. His passion for soccer is also shared by his older brother, Rogier, a professional football coach for the Eredivisie club NEC. After stepping away from soccer, he took on new athletic challenges, completing marathons in Chicago and Las Vegas and participating in the Louisville Ironman in 2018. His dedication to fitness has led him to compete in various other races, including several half-Ironman events. In recent years, he has rediscovered his love for tennis, playing through local leagues in Charlotte, and has also taken up pickleball. His commitment to staying active reflects his belief in the importance of physical fitness and the joy of competition.
Mastery of DIY Projects
Outside of his professional and athletic pursuits, Meijer is an avid DIY enthusiast who enjoys taking on home improvement projects. His hands-on approach and attention to detail are evident in the various projects he has completed around his home, including the construction of a new 25x20 composite deck, an 80-foot yard fence, and an outdoor swing set. His skills extend to interior projects as well, such as revamping the laundry room and updating the fireplace with new cabinetry and a backsplash. His passion for DIY projects not only allows him to express his creativity but also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride in his home. These projects are a reflection of his dedication to creating a comfortable and beautiful living space for his family.
Commitment to Community and Philanthropy
Ramses Meijer and his family are deeply committed to giving back to their community. He volunteers his time coaching at the YMCA, where he is actively involved in supporting youth sports programs. He also dedicates time to working at food pantries, homeless shelters, and organizations like Loaves and Fishes. The Meijer family is also committed to supporting various charities and making financial contributions to several causes each year. Their dedication to philanthropy is a core value that drives their desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through hands-on volunteering or financial support, their commitment to community service is a testament to their belief in the importance of helping those in need and contributing to the betterment of society.