How to Become a Resort Manager
The most expeditious way to become a resort manager is to earn a degree in hospitality management (or a related field), apply for and participate in an internship program, and stay current with industry changes by networking in trade associations and professional organizations.
Education Requirements for Resort Manager
While you could spend years attempting to work your way up the chain of command on the resort ladder, the wisest way to become a successful resort manager is to first earn a bachelor’s degree. Several accredited colleges and universities offer Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in Hospitality Management or related fields, which may include concentrations or coursework in resort management. Here are a few examples of institutions known for their hospitality management programs, and a brief description of their degrees in their own words.
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)
- Johnson & Wales University
- Florida International University (FIU)
- University of Central Florida (UCF)
- Michigan State University
- Penn State University
“UNLV’s William F. Harrah College of Hospitality offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Resort Management. Our program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of hospitality operations, including resort management principles and practices.”
“Johnson & Wales University has campuses in multiple locations, including Providence, Rhode Island, and Denver, Colorado. We offer a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Resort and Hotel Management. As a student, you will learn about various aspects of resort operations, including guest services, food and beverage management, and event planning.”
“FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a specialization in Resort & Spa Management. The program covers topics such as resort development, operations management, and sustainable tourism practices.”
“UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Resort and Attraction Management. Our program focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities within the resort and attractions industry, preparing students for leadership roles in these settings.”
“Michigan State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business with a concentration in Club Management and Resorts. The program emphasizes business fundamentals as well as specialized coursework in resort management, club operations, and guest services.”
“The School of Hospitality Management at Penn State offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Club and Resort Management. Our students learn about various aspects of managing resorts and clubs, including financial management, marketing, and guest relations.”
Get Experience in the Field & Job Offers by Participating in an Internship Program
In order to maximize your potential and total return on your investments of time and study, enroll in an internship program. Many are paid positions and lead right into a job offer (upon successful completion). Here are some resources for striking gold in an internship program.
- Resort Companies
- Hospitality Management Programs
- Online Job Boards
- Hospitality Industry Associations
- Resort Hotel Association (RHA)
- International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC)
- American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA)
- Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI)
- International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA)
- Local Resorts
- Professional Conferences and Events
Many resort companies offer internship programs for students or recent graduates interested in gaining experience in various aspects of resort management. Examples of such companies include Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products. Here what you will need to research and keep on the lookout for:
Colleges and universities with hospitality management or resort management programs often have partnerships with resort properties that offer internships to students. Check with your academic advisor or career services office for information on internship opportunities available through your school.
Large resort companies often list internship opportunities in the hospitality industry, including resort management roles. You can search for internships using keywords such as “resort management internship,” “hospitality internship,” or specific resort company names.
There are a number of networking opportunities, job postings, and internships available through association with, or membership in, one or more well-respected trade associations and professional organizations. Here are a few with their own brief descriptions.
“The Resort Hotel Association is an international association representing resort hotels and resorts worldwide. It provides networking opportunities, industry research, advocacy, and educational resources for resort managers and professionals.”
“The ISHC is a professional association of consultants serving the hospitality industry, including resort management consultants. We offer networking events, educational programs, and resources for our members.”
“The AHLA is a national association representing all segments of the hospitality industry, including resorts. We pride ourselves regarding our advocacy, education, and resources for hospitality professionals, including resort managers.”
“HSMAI is a global organization representing sales, marketing, and revenue management professionals in the hospitality industry. Here at HSMAI, we offer resources and networking opportunities that may be beneficial for resort managers seeking to enhance their marketing and revenue management skills.”
“IAAPA is a global association representing professionals in the attractions industry, including theme parks, water parks, and resorts with recreational facilities. We are known for our networking events, educational programs, and resources for resort managers and professionals involved in attraction management.”
Even if they don’t have formal internship programs, some resorts may be open to offering internships or externships to individuals who express a genuine interest in learning about resort operations. Consider contacting resorts directly to inquire about potential internship opportunities.
Attending conferences, seminars, or trade shows related to the hospitality industry can provide opportunities to connect with industry professionals and learn about internship opportunities.
One Example of an Internship Opportunity: The Hilton
Here is one example of an internship opportunity, offered by one of the world’s most prestigious corporations.
“ABOUT THE 2024/2025 MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
This full-time paid training program begins in August 2024. Upon completing the program, MDP graduates will be invited to apply for job placement opportunities at any of our managed hotels. An overview of the areas of specialization is as follows:
The Management Development Program is a comprehensive nine-month development program. Our goal is to prepare first-time managers in hospitality. As an MDP trainee, you will spend the first three months of your program participating in a general rotation through all areas and functions of the hotel to gain a complete understanding of our business.
The remaining six months will focus on a specific area of specialization. Specialization function choices may include: Culinary, Food & Beverage, Front Office, Engineering, Revenue, Catering & Events, Marketing, Finance, Sales, and Housekeeping. Upon successfully completing the program, MDP Trainees will be offered job placement opportunities at one of our U.S. managed hotels.”
Job Outlook for Resort Managers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (https://www.bls.gov/), Resort Managers have promising opportunities for the time period spanning 2022-2032. The field is growing by 7% per year, which is faster than the average growth rate. Government experts predict that each year over 5,400 openings will become available (between 2022-2032), due to replacing resort managers who leave the profession, leave the work force and/or retire. Over the ten-year time span (2022-2032) it is projected that a total of 3,400 new resort management positions will be created. In 2022 there were 50,800 individuals working as resort managers. The median pay per year was $61,910, while the median hourly wage was $29.76. (As a reminder, the “median” amount is not an average, it is the middle value of a dataset. For the U.S. BLS definition go to: https://www.bls.gov/cps/definitions.htm#medianearnings).
By earning a degree in hospitality management (or a related field), participating in an internship program, and staying current with industry changes by networking in trade associations and professional organizations, you will be well on your way to realizing your dream of becoming a happy and prosperous resort manager!
