Military Veterans are Encouraged to Apply. The Event Programming Manager leads the development and execution of guest-facing events from concept through delivery, ensuring alignment with Wild Dunes Resort's mission of creating immersive experiences and a sense of belonging that inspires guests to make our destination their own. This is an on-property position.This collaborative, creative, and detail-oriented leader will oversee all aspects of event design, planning, and logistics, dedicating approximately 25% of their time (10-15 hours per week) to public-facing activations. The role is also responsible for on-site event coordination, serving as a liaison between meeting planners, banquet operations, and the Conference team.Through research, ideation, budgeting, staff management, and partnership across departments, the Event Programming Manager will develop a dynamic calendar of events that is innovative, engaging, and aligned with both resort and guest expectations. This position plays a key role in maintaining AAA Four Diamond standards and delivering seamless, memorable experiences for all audiences.Key ResponsibilitiesProgramming & Guest Experience
- Research competitive sets and industry best practices to stay current on trends in resort activations and guest programming.
- Propose new events with supporting budgets, target audiences, ROI considerations, marketing needs, pricing strategies, and frequency recommendations.
- Manage and maintain a 52-week resort-wide guest calendar to ensure consistent and business-appropriate programming.
- Partner with leaders across departments (Executive team, Marketing, Sales, F&B, Recreation, Retail, Sports, Events) to integrate and optimize programming using existing resources.
- Provide on-site leadership for new events or train staff for recurring activations to ensure delivery at the highest standard.
Event Coordination & Operations
- Act as on-site assistant for meeting planners and liaison between planners, banquet managers, and conference coordinators.
- Ensure timely and accurate transfer of event details from Sales to Event Planning.
- Manage event logistics in Envision, including space control, menu creation/edits, and out-of-order functions.
- Support the Senior Event Planning Manager and Director of Event Operations with special projects.
- Provide administrative and operational support to Event Planning Managers, Banquet Managers, and Banquet Supervisors.
- Process invoices (Event Planning, Event Operations, A/V contracts, capital projects).
- Oversee event signage, daily resort event reporting, and group shipping logistics.
- Coordinate with resort HOA (Front Gate) and manage site visits for the Sales team.
- Oversee deposits, Dinner Delivered orders, and the VIP amenity program.
Qualifications: QualificationsEducation & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Business, or related field preferred.
- Minimum 3-5 years of progressive experience in event programming, hospitality, or conference services.
- Strong background in event logistics, budgeting, and program design.
- At least 2 years of administrative experience required.
- Event planning experience with the ability to research trends and recommend new programming to drive guest engagement.
- Guest service experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of hotel/resort operations required.
- Understanding of Sales and Conference Planning procedures preferred.
- Experience with hospitality/event software preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
Job Requirements- Must be authorized to work in the United States (employment verified through the federal E-Verify system).
- Must be able to perform in a highly confidential environment.
- Must be able to read, write, and speak English fluently.
- Must have strong computer skills.
- Must work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Must be able to accurately follow instructions, both written and verbal.
- Must be highly detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
- Must have excellent listening and communication skills.
- Must present a professional appearance and demeanor.
- Must foster a teamwork-oriented environment.
- Must be able to interact effectively with guests, colleagues, and resort partners.
- Must demonstrate the ability to resolve conflicts diplomatically and tactfully.