What are the responsibilities and job description for the Area General Manager position at Avalon Palm Springs Hotel and Ingleside Estate?
AVALON HOTEL & BUNGALOWS PALM SPRINGS
An old-world hideaway in the heart of Palm Springs, Avalon is a desert oasis tucked into the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains. With 70 Spanish-style lodgings, including romantic studios and 13 private villas; 3 cabana-lined pools; the acclaimed Chi Chi restaurant; and the restorative Estrella Spa, it’s no secret while Avalon’s sun-kissed, lush, citrus tree-lined grounds have been a Hollywood playground since the 1930s.
INGLESIDE ESTATE
At the historic Ingleside Estate & Melvyn’s Restaurant, an old Hollywood glamour runs deep: Built in the 1920’s for the heirs to the Pierce Arrow Automobile Company, it was later purchased in 1935 by Palm Springs pioneer Ruth Hardy. Through the years, Ingleside served as a Palm Springs escape for A-list names including Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe, and Elizabeth Taylor, with a legacy that's still felt in its serene, hedge-lined grounds. A relaxed elegance is palpable throughout the 30 Spanish Revival rooms and suites, and on the lush lawn with pool and hot tub. The iconic dining experience of Melvyn’s restaurant and lounge completes this picturesque setting to play and escape it all.
Job Summary:
The Area General Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, ensuring the property runs efficiently, profitably, and provides an exceptional guest experience. This leadership role involves managing the day-to-day operations, financial performance, guest satisfaction, staff development, and strategic planning. This position ensures that all hotel departments—such as front desk, housekeeping, food and beverage, sales, and maintenance—are aligned with both hotels' goals and standards. This position requires strong leadership, operational expertise, and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
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Operational Leadership:
- Oversee all hotel operations, ensuring a seamless operation across departments including front desk, housekeeping, food and beverage, maintenance, and sales.
- Develop and implement operational procedures and policies that enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction.
- Monitor hotel performance metrics on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis, adjusting operations as necessary to meet targets.
- Regularly inspect hotel facilities, ensuring that everything is in working order and that maintenance issues are addressed promptly.
- Implement and maintain high cleanliness and safety standards throughout the property.
- Conduct regular staff meetings to address operational concerns, discuss improvements, and keep all departments aligned with hotel objectives.
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Financial Management:
- Develop and manage the hotel’s annual budget, ensuring that it reflects financial goals, cost control, and revenue targets.
- Monitor financial performance on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis, ensuring that profit and loss (P&L) statements and other key financial indicators are accurate and up-to-date.
- Identify opportunities to optimize revenue, including dynamic pricing, sales promotions, and maximizing room occupancy.
- Regularly analyze financial reports to detect areas of improvement in operations, inventory management, and expense reduction.
- Work closely with the finance department to manage cash flow, ensure proper invoicing, and monitor accounts payable/receivable.
- Approve major expenditures and ensure the hotel operates within budgetary constraints.
- Create financial strategies that drive performance in key areas, such as average daily rate (ADR), occupancy, and revenue per available room (RevPAR).
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Guest Experience & Satisfaction:
- Ensure the highest levels of guest satisfaction by overseeing the guest experience from check-in to check-out.
- Proactively address guest concerns, complaints, and requests, ensuring prompt resolution and maintaining high guest satisfaction.
- Implement strategies that encourage guest loyalty and repeat business, such as loyalty programs, special promotions, and personalized guest experiences.
- Regularly engage with guests, either directly or through guest feedback surveys, to understand their needs and expectations.
- Monitor online reviews and respond to feedback to improve the guest experience and the hotel’s reputation.
- Coordinate with departments to ensure special guest requests are met, including handling VIP arrivals, group bookings, or special events.
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Staff Management & Development:
- Lead, motivate, and manage hotel employees, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Develop and implement training programs to ensure that all hotel staff are knowledgeable, skilled, and adhere to company standards.
- Recruit, interview, hire, and onboard hotel staff across various departments.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback and coaching to employees.
- Address staff concerns and resolve conflicts promptly to maintain a harmonious work environment.
- Identify opportunities for career development and provide growth opportunities for high-performing staff members.
- Ensure that all team members are trained on health and safety protocols, guest service standards, and emergency procedures.
- Organize team-building events and activities to maintain staff morale and promote a positive workplace culture.
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Sales & Marketing Strategy:
- Work with the sales and marketing teams to develop and execute strategies that drive new business, attract guests, and increase brand awareness.
- Identify key market segments and collaborate with the marketing department to tailor campaigns for each segment.
- Oversee the development and execution of promotional offers, special packages, and discounts to maximize occupancy.
- Coordinate with local tourism boards, travel agencies, and corporate clients to secure group bookings and contracts.
- Track the performance of marketing campaigns, adjusting strategies based on results and market trends.
- Maintain and promote the hotel’s brand reputation through effective public relations and community engagement.
- Ensure the property’s website and social media profiles are up-to-date with accurate information and engaging content.
- Evaluate the competitive landscape to understand market trends, pricing strategies, and guest preferences.
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Compliance & Safety:
- Ensure the hotel complies with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding health, safety, labor laws, and hospitality standards.
- Regularly review and update health and safety procedures, ensuring staff are trained and aware of emergency response protocols.
- Ensure proper maintenance of the hotel’s security system and safety protocols to ensure a secure environment for guests and staff.
- Conduct regular safety audits and address any issues in accordance with local health and safety guidelines.
- Oversee risk management activities, ensuring the property is adequately insured and that all necessary licenses are up-to-date.
- Manage the hotel’s environmental impact, ensuring sustainable practices are in place for waste management, energy consumption, and resource use.
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Strategic Planning & Reporting:
- Develop and execute the hotel’s long-term strategic plan to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
- Set and communicate clear performance goals and objectives for all departments, ensuring alignment with the hotel’s overall business strategy.
- Regularly review key performance indicators (KPIs), adjusting strategies and operations to meet goals.
- Prepare and deliver reports to senior management and stakeholders on hotel performance, market conditions, and operational improvements.
- Participate in forecasting and budget planning meetings to align business objectives with financial and operational goals.
- Stay up to date on industry trends, market conditions, and competitor performance to make informed strategic decisions.
Education and/or Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 6 years of experience in hotel management, with at least 2 years in a senior leadership role.
- Extensive knowledge of hotel operations, including front office, housekeeping, food and beverage, sales, and revenue management.
- Proven track record of financial management, team leadership, and guest satisfaction.
Skills/Specialized Knowledge
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
- In-depth understanding of revenue management and financial reporting.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain a calm demeanor under pressure.
- Knowledge of hospitality software and property management systems (PMS).
- Proactive problem-solving skills with the ability to address issues effectively and efficiently.
- Strong customer service orientation and a passion for the hospitality industry.
Physical Demands
- Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods.
- Occasional lifting of items such as office supplies or hotel materials (up to 25 pounds).
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed, depending on hotel operations.
Company Overview
Avalon PS HM, LLC is made up of a diverse group of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: There is a right way to do things and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking out the best of the best from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us as we grow a new kind of lifestyle hospitality company inspired by a centuries-old tradition. The work is challenging and fast-paced, but rewarding above all.
Avalon PS HM, LLC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.
Avalon PS HM, LLC will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.