Description

Summary

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 Responsibilities

Programming & 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

Qualifications

Education & 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.