Imagine your career unfolding in some of the most beautiful vacation places on earth where people ski, swim, play golf, eat, drink, and dance. For those with resort management careers, that’s just another day at the office. Ski resorts, golf courses, hotels, restaurants, casinos, cruise lines, and entertainment venues are all run by skilled managers. These hospitality professionals work with the public while supervising housekeeping, desk services, food preparation, and dozens of other tasks necessary to run a smooth and efficient operation. Resort managers might run huge overseas properties or small, local venues.
When you study for a degree in resort management you learn about the hotel, bar, and restaurant businesses as well as trade shows, and recreation operations. You’ll study the latest trends in resort marketing and hospitality technology. Courses also include business accounting, human resources management, food and beverage management, and facilities management and design. Those specializing in ski resort management look after the operations of winter recreation hills, make sure equipment and ski runs are safe, manage finances, and oversee the marketing and promotion of the ski area.
While it might be fun to work in a stylish environment with free access to fitness centers, ski slopes, pools, food, and entertainment, resort managers must work hard to satisfy the public. As resort manager Michael Bargas explains, “Unlike many organizations, we are in the happiness business, and have the obligation as well as the opportunity to provide unforgettable experiences to our guests. They have made a significant financial commitment in exchange for our services, and we must never forget the essential role that they play in the continued success of our business.”
Resort managers can expect to earn more than $55K a year at larger hotels, casinos, and ski resorts. If you love the outdoors, have a head for business, and enjoy working with the public, resort management might just be the ticket for a career that’s fun and fast-paced, and where the vacations never end.