Event Manager

EVENT MANAGER 

Reports to: Director of Sales and Catering

Department: Sales

OUR STORY

The Forester Hotel is the natural selection for modern comfort and evolutionary service. Founded on the motto of "Love of Science and Nature", the city of Lake Forest has always been at the crossroads of preservation and progress with its open lands backing up to office parks and the cobblestone streets of historic Market Square leading to Starbucks and Williams Sonoma. We’re blazing new trails with boutique offerings including an upscale bistro bar and over 4,500 square feet of flexible event space.  

BENEFITS

• Competitive compensation package
• Competitive Paid Time Off policy
• Full benefits package, including 401K and paid time off
• Professional development
• Hotel discounts at locations worldwide

JOB DESCRIPTION
At The Forester Hotel, a luxury full-service property, the General Manager is a dynamic and visible leader responsible for the successful day-to-day operation and long-term strategic direction of the hotel. This hands-on position ensures the delivery of exceptional guest experience, operational excellence, and financial performance, in alignment with brand standards and ownership expectations. The General Manager must lead with professionalism, integrity, and a guest-centric mindset while cultivating a high-performing team that reflects the hotel’s commitment to quality, service, and luxury. Key areas of focus include service delivery, team development, revenue growth, profitability, and operational compliance. Flexibility in scheduling—including nights, weekends, and holidays—is essential.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain a polished and professional appearance, consistently representing the hotel’s luxury brand standards.
• Provide 24/7 operational leadership and support;must be available toworka flexible schedule including weekends and holidays.
• Ensure full compliance with brand policies, corporate standards, and all local/state/federal regulations.
• Oversee all aspects of human resources including recruiting, onboarding, performance management, training, and professional development.
• Lead and mentor department heads; foster a culture of accountability, hospitality, and service excellence.
• Manage payroll, staffing levels, and progressive discipline as needed, ensuring alignment with budget and service standards.
• Conduct daily property walks and inspections to maintain quality standards in guest rooms, public areas, and back-of-house operations.
• Proactively respond to guest feedback, ensuring service recovery and continuous improvement in guest satisfaction scores.
• Collaborate with Sales and Revenue Management to oversee pricing strategies, group bookings, and revenue optimization.
• Develop,monitor, and manage the hotel’s annual operating budget, P&L performance, and financial forecasts.
• Oversee capital projects, vendor management, and ensure proper bidding, execution, and approval processes.
• Review and approve invoices and purchasing activity; ensure financial accuracy and cost control throughout departments.
• Build strong relationships within the local community; actively participate in business associations and public relations efforts.
• Uphold all safety and security procedures, including emergency protocols, lost & found, and reporting of suspicious activity.
• Operate office systems and perform light physical tasks including lifting upto 50 lbs.
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods; occasional bending, twisting, reaching, and stair climbing required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 3–5 years of hotel General Manager experience in an upscale or full-service property required.
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Business Administration, ora related field preferred.
• Proven success in managing operations, leading teams, and driving guest satisfaction.
• Previous experience with a luxury hotel brand or soft-branded property is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills with a hands-on, service-oriented approach.
• Proficiency in hotel systems and Microsoft Office Suite; experience with brand property management and revenue systems preferred.