Area Manager

Better Talent by Laveer & Co.; Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge (TN, TN); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Job summary

Southern Sands is seeking an Area Manager to lead operations in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge market. The role requires managing daily operations of vacation rental properties, ensuring outstanding guest experiences, and driving performance across a expanding national portfolio.

The candidate will lead local teams, conduct property inspections, and collaborate with internal teams to maintain high hospitality standards.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in hospitality or vacation rental property management.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage, motivate, and develop a local team.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build rapport with guests, homeowners, and team members.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively across multiple properties.
• Proficiency in computer systems, including CRM tools, property management software, and VoIP phone systems.
• Must reside within a short drive of the vacation rental properties, with reliable transportation, a valid driver\'s license, and current insurance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all vacation rental properties in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area.
• Audit properties, manage supplies, respond to guest and property concerns.
• Conduct regular property inspections for cleanliness and readiness.
• Lead, train, and develop local team members (field staff, housekeeping, maintenance).
• Serve as primary local liaison for property owners and provide performance updates.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure smooth operations and guest experiences.
• Manage vendor relationships and coordinate contractors as needed.
• Monitor performance metrics (occupancy, revenue, expenses) to meet goals.
• Support onboarding of new homeowners and properties as expansion continues.
• Analyze guest/homeowner feedback to identify trends and improvements.
• Provide regular reports on KPIs and guest satisfaction to leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Organization

CRM systems

Tools

CRM tools

Property management software

VoIP phone systems

Job description

Company Overview

At Southern Sands, we are redefining the short-term rental industry by combining exceptional hospitality with innovative technology. As we embark on an exciting journey of national expansion, Southern Sands is poised to become a leading name in vacation rentals across the United States. Our mission is to create unforgettable guest experiences while fostering a culture of inclusion, unity, and excellence.With a growing portfolio of properties in key markets nationwide, Southern Sands is committed to delivering the highest standards of service and hospitality. We believe that every stay should feel like home, and every guest interaction should leave a lasting impression.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, results-driven Area Manager to lead our operations in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge market at this pivotal time of growth. In this role, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of our vacation rental properties in the region, ensuring guests receive the exceptional service for which Southern Sands is known while contributing to the success of our national expansion efforts.As an Area Manager, you will be responsible for the operational excellence, quality standards, and financial performance of your assigned portfolio. You will lead and develop local team members, coordinate cross-functional operations, and serve as a key point of contact for property owners in the area. You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with our leadership team to refine processes and implement innovative strategies that elevate the guest and homeowner experience as we expand our footprint.This position requires proximity to the market and frequent travel to various properties within the designated area. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a thriving market and make a meaningful impact on the future of hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of all Southern Sands vacation rental properties in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area, ensuring seamless performance across the portfolio.
• Ensure a superior guest experience by auditing properties, managing supplies, and promptly responding to guest and property concerns.
• Conduct regular property inspections to confirm cleanliness, readiness, and adherence to Southern Sands' high hospitality standards.
• Lead, train, and develop local team members, including field staff, housekeeping, and maintenance coordinators, to run high-performing operations.
• Serve as the primary local liaison for property owners, building strong, trust-based relationships and providing regular updates on property performance.
• Coordinate with internal teams—including guest experience, maintenance, and housekeeping—to ensure smooth, efficient operations and exceptional guest experiences.
• Manage vendor relationships and coordinate outside contractors when needed to maintain property quality and readiness.
• Proactively identify quality assurance concerns at the properties and exercise independent judgment to take appropriate corrective action.
• Monitor area-level performance, occupancy, revenue, and expenses to meet or exceed operational and financial goals.
• Support the onboarding of new homeowners and their properties as we expand in the market.
• Analyze guest and homeowner feedback to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Provide regular reports on operational performance, KPIs, and guest satisfaction metrics to leadership

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in hospitality or short-term/vacation rental property management mandatory
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage, motivate, and develop a local team.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build rapport with guests, homeowners, and team members.Exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively across multiple properties.Proficiency in computer systems, including CRM tools, property management software, and VoIP phone systems.
• A passion for hospitality and a commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences.
• Must reside within a short drive of our vacation rental properties in the designated area, with reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and current insurance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a rapidly growing or expanding company. Familiarity with the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge/Sevier County vacation rental market.

Compensation & Benefits

Annual Salary: $45,000 - $50,000 Benefits

• Paid time off such as PTO, sick days, and vacation days
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance

Location & Schedule

• Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge | Full-time | Hybrid role