General Manager

Southern Marinas; Tennessee; On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Marinas seeks a General Manager to lead all marina operations, drive slip leasing sales, and train the team for superior customer service. The role requires strong leadership, operational expertise, and the ability to collaborate with the home office.

Responsibilities include overseeing maintenance, safety, budgetary control, and revenue strategies to maximize profitability while ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of marina management experience or related hospitality/operations management.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Strong leadership and customer service orientation.
• Proficient with reservation/booking systems and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Oversee marina operations including maintenance, dockage, fuel dock management, boat rentals, and slip occupancy.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize revenue, control costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Routinely inspect all areas of the property to ensure safety and appearance.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance and timely repairs for all equipment and docks.
• Train and coach staff on sales, customer engagement, and lead follow-up best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Sales & Leasing

Customer Service

Budgeting

Operations Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Reservation systems

Job description

The General Manager is responsible for all aspects of marina operations, ensuring efficient, safe, and customer-focused service while achieving financial objectives. This role owns the sales process for slip leasing—from lead generation through conversion—and is accountable for training the team to deliver results. Strong leadership, operational expertise, and the ability to work collaboratively with the home office and colleagues across the organization are essential.

Operational Management

• Oversee all marina operations including maintenance, dockage, fuel dock management, boat rentals, and slip occupancy
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize revenue, control costs, and enhance customer satisfaction
• Routinely inspect all areas of the property to ensure above-average appearance and a safe environment
• Coordinate preventive maintenance and timely repairs for all marina equipment, property, grounds, and docks
• Monitor inventory levels of fuel, supplies, and equipment within budgetary guidelines
• Maintain and update local Standard Operating Procedures and Instruction Manuals
• Respond to weather events or emergencies that could damage marina assets or customer property
• Ensure all company and customer equipment is secured each evening prior to lock-up

Compliance & Safety

• Understand and comply with all government regulations including OSHA, EPA, and weights and measures
• Handle all aspects of governmental reporting and compliance
• Ensure training of employees in safe use of marina equipment, firefighting procedures, and spill containment
• Maintain proper controls to safeguard assets including equipment and inventory
• Ensure the safety of customers and employees at all times

Customer Service

• Deliver exceptional service ensuring customers have a positive experience throughout their interactions
• Address customer inquiries, concerns, and complaints promptly and professionally
• Develop strong customer relationships and actively seek feedback for continuous improvement
• Coordinate with third-party vendors (such as restaurant management) to ensure seamless service integration

Sales & Leasing

• Own the full sales process from lead generation through lease execution, ensuring consistent follow-up and conversion
• Actively manage the sales pipeline, tracking all inquiries and maintaining accurate records in the reservation system
• Train and coach staff on sales techniques, customer engagement, and lead follow-up best practices
• Respond to all slip inquiries promptly and professionally, with a focus on converting leads into long-term lease agreements
• Conduct marina tours and showcase amenities to prospective slip holders
• Manage slip occupancy targets and develop strategies to minimize vacancy
• Oversee the waiting list process, maintaining regular communication with prospective customers
• Collaborate with marketing to generate qualified leads through advertising, events, and outreach initiatives

Staff Management

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise all employees and contract labor
• Foster a positive work environment promoting teamwork, professional development, and service excellence
• Train team members on the sales process, ensuring they understand how to qualify leads, communicate value, and drive conversions
• Hold staff accountable for lead follow-up and customer engagement standards
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and identify training opportunities
• Handle disciplinary actions and terminations when appropriate
• Train and coach office administrator to ensure accurate data entry
• Develop and manage the annual operating and capital budgets
• Drive slip occupancy and lease revenue to meet or exceed targets
• Monitor actual versus projected figures monthly; investigate and correct negative variances
• Approve all purchases, invoices, and check requests
• Implement pricing strategies and adjust rates to maximize profitability
• Collaborate with finance to ensure accurate accounting and reporting
• Identify and develop new revenue sources and growth opportunities
• Maintain professional relationships with agencies, contractors, vendors, and customers
• Oversee vendor relationships ensuring timely and quality service delivery
• Approve and oversee all long-term dock leasing, waiting lists, and retail leasing
• Oversee implementation and maintenance of marketing programs

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum 5 years of marina management experience or related hospitality/operations management
• Demonstrated success in sales, leasing, or revenue generation roles
• Strong understanding of maintenance operations and fuel dock management
• Excellent leadership skills with ability to motivate and develop staff
• Strong customer service orientation with track record of exceptional guest experiences
• Solid understanding of financial management principles and budgeting
• Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and safety standards
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office and reservation/booking systems
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Flexibility to work weekends and respond to emergencies

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field
• Experience with marina-specific software and point-of-sale systems
• Track record of meeting or exceeding occupancy and sales targets

Working Conditions

Work involves a variety of tasks requiring independent judgment and compliance with policies and procedures. The role manages multiple projects simultaneously and requires frequent adaptation to meet operational needs. This position has supervisory responsibility for all marina operations and employees on the property.