Job Description

Elk & Embers is a luxury mountain resort and wedding venue nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Waynesville, North Carolina. We offer an intimate, elevated experience for guests seeking a refined escape in nature. Our property combines rustic elegance with modern amenities, delivering exceptional hospitality in a breathtaking setting.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic General Manager to oversee all aspects of operations at Elk & Embers. This leader will be responsible for delivering outstanding guest experiences, managing daily operations, leading our team, and driving business growth. The ideal candidate combines hospitality expertise with strong business acumen, thrives in both the retreat and event spaces, and is passionate about creating memorable experiences in a luxury high-touch setting.

Key Responsibilities

Operations Management

· Oversee and support day-to-day operations of the property, including guest accommodations, event execution as needed, food and beverage service, and property maintenance

· Ensure all facilities meet our luxury hospitality standards and maintain the property's distinctive mountain elegance aesthetic

· Prepare food and beverage daily

· Develop and implement standard operating procedures as required to ensure consistency and efficiency

· Manage vendor relationships and coordinate with external service providers

· Oversee inventory management and procurement

· Work closely with maintenance staff or external vendors for property upkeep and preventative maintenance

· Other duties to support the larger business as required

Guest Experience & Hospitality

· Create and maintain an exceptional guest experience from booking through departure

· Handle guest inquiries, reservations, and special requests with attention to detail and empathy

· Resolve guest concerns promptly and professionally, turning challenges into opportunities for excellence

· Personally welcome high-value guests and maintain relationships with repeat visitors (our Ember Members)

· Oversee execution of special experiences and curated guest activities

· Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements based on insights and learnings

Wedding & Event Management

· Oversee the planning and execution of weddings and special events

· Work closely with couples and event planners to bring their vision to life

· Coordinate with catering, décor, entertainment, and other event vendors

· Ensure seamless event logistics from ceremony through reception

· Manage event timelines and troubleshoot any issues that arise

Team Leadership

· Recruit, train, and manage hospitality staff as needed

· Foster a positive, collaborative work environment that reflects our values

· Conduct regular reviews and provide ongoing coaching and support

· Organize schedules for redundancy prioritizing an elevated guest experience

· Lead by example in delivering exceptional service

Sales & Marketing Support

· Represent Elk & Embers at industry events and in the local community if needed

· Develop relationships with wedding planners, tourism boards, and corporate clients

· Respond to inquiries and conduct property tours

· Support efforts to drive direct bookings and expand market reach

Compliance & Safety

· Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations including health, safety, and hospitality licensing

· Maintain risk management protocols

· Implement and oversee emergency procedures and staff training

· Conduct regular safety inspections and address any concerns promptly

Qualifications

· 3+ years of hospitality management experience, preferably in boutique hotels, luxury retreats, or event venues

· Strong leadership skills with experience managing people

· Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

· Proficiency in property management systems and booking software a plus

· Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

· Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field a plus

· Knowledge of the Western North Carolina tourism market a plus

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Flexible hours
• Performance-based incentives
• On-site perks and guest experience discounts
• Opportunity to help shape the growth and vision of a unique mountain resort

Please send availability and salary requirements with cover letter.

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