What are the responsibilities and job description for the EVENTS PROGRAMMING MANAGER position at Wild Dunes Resort?
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.
