What are the responsibilities and job description for the Area Director of Recreation & Experiences position at BHC?
The Area Director of Recreation & Experiences leads the design, implementation, and growth of BHC’s guest programming across The Charleston Place, The Cooper, American Gardens, and future properties. This role shapes experiences that embody wellbeing, connection, and growth, celebrating Charleston’s culture and natural beauty through wellness, culinary, family, and adventure offerings. The Director provides strategic leadership while ensuring operational excellence and brand consistency across the collection.
Duties & Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Program Development
- Lead the creation and execution of BHC’s lifestyle and recreation strategy in alignment with the company vision and brand identity.
- Develop a balanced calendar of wellness, culinary, arts, outdoor, and family experiences.
- Collaborate with marketing and property teams to ensure offerings reflect each property’s character and exceed guest expectations.
- Build and maintain partnerships with local artisans, wellness experts, and cultural organizations.
Operations & Team Leadership
- Oversee the Recreation & Activities team, including the Recreation Manager, Supervisor, and Agents.
- Establish and maintain standards and operating procedures for guest engagement, safety, and quality.
- Manage staffing, budgets, and training to ensure consistent, high-quality execution across all properties.
- Collaborate with Finance to oversee departmental forecasting and reporting.
Guest Experience & Brand Integration
- Serve as a visible ambassador of BHC’s lifestyle philosophy, creating meaningful connections between guests and place.
- Collaborate with Marketing, Concierge, Spa, and F&B teams to integrate programming into the guest journey.
- Utilize guest feedback and performance data to enhance programs and overall satisfaction.
Innovation & Growth
- Drive innovation in experiences across the collection, piloting new wellness and cultural concepts.
- Expand offerings through creative partnerships, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement.
- Stay informed on global trends in luxury recreation, wellness, and experiential hospitality.
Year One Focus
- Launch core lifestyle programming at The Cooper and The Charleston Place by Q2 2026.
- Form key partnerships in wellness, culture, and adventure within the Charleston community.
- Increase guest satisfaction scores related to engagement and recreation.
- Develop scalable models for lifestyle programming across BHC properties.
Required Skills & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Recreation, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
- 5-8 years of experience leading recreation, lifestyle, or guest experience programs in luxury hospitality.
- Strong leadership, communication, and operational management skills.
- Deep understanding of Charleston’s culture and outdoor experiences.
- Proven ability to build teams, manage budgets, and deliver high-impact programs.
- Visionary and detail-oriented leader who balances creativity with discipline.
- Collaborative and inspiring with a passion for authentic hospitality and connection.
- Entrepreneurial and adaptable—able to grow a department and lead innovation across properties.