By: Jen Jones
Resort managers use multiple skills to ensure the smooth operation of luxury travel destinations. Since resort managers are responsible for a variety of departments and area supervisors, they work closely with the management staff of resort operations for activities, transportation, housekeeping, spas, and restaurants.
Resort managers also coordinate the work of resort sales representatives, and may also meet with potential clients utilizing the facility for meetings, events, or lodging.
Customer service is another responsibility of the resort manager, as is resolving any complaints by clients.
A key focus for the resort manager is tracking resort spending to ensure that the operation runs within budget and at a rate of profitability.
In working with multiple staff to ensure the success of the facility, resort managers also carry out much of the personnel hiring, training, and supervision of the staff at large.
Resort management entry-level positions can include the positions of manager for marketing, sales, advertising, public relations, finances, human resources, labor relations, training, housekeeping, or food service.
Looking at the global picture, tourism currently accounts for more than 10 percent of the world's GDP.
Resort managers utilize both "soft" skills, such as communications, or interpersonal leadership in working with resort staff; and "hard" skills, such as financial analysis, marketing and legal issues.
Potential resort managers will fare better in hiring situations with a bachelor's or a master's degree in hospitality or hotel management than those candidates without a degree. A business degree in management is also an asset.
Entry level resort managers can expect to earn just over $25,000 a year, but, as managers gain experience and add responsibilities, that figure can rise to as high as $88,000 per year.
Check out our list of Resort Management Schools