Convention Services Manager

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is a distinguished hospitality company renowned for owning and operating the largest indoor waterparks in America. With a unique African-inspired theme, Kalahari offers not only exhilarating waterpark experiences but also top-tier accommodations, world-class dining, luxurious spas, and advanced convention centers. These resorts are designed to deliver unforgettable vacations and events that cater to families, business travelers, and large groups seeking extraordinary experiences. The company is family-owned and prides itself on a Promise to "Lead with Love," which emphasizes caring deeply for guests, associates, and the communities they serve. This promise embodies a culture of treating people like family, giving generously to charitable causes, and fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where all feel valued. Among its community initiatives, Kalahari partners with charity: water to provide clean water access to one million people in Africa, demonstrating a commitment to positive global impact.

The Convention Services Manager role at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is central to orchestrating flawless events within the expansive resort and convention centers. This position involves servicing assigned groups and special events from the planning stages to successful execution. The manager will collaborate closely with event planners to arrange detailed agendas, room layouts, and menu selections while also managing bookings for single-day events and prospecting for certain social gatherings. A critical aspect of the role is optimizing revenue streams by recommending menu enhancements and resort amenities that align with client needs, thereby enhancing the overall guest experience.

As a member of the leadership team, the Convention Services Manager is expected to personify the company's core value, "Lead with Love," by guiding, supporting, and inspiring associates to deliver remarkable service. The manager's efforts ensure that every detail of group events is coordinated seamlessly, contributing to a stress-free environment for attendees and staff alike. Serving as the pivotal liaison among clients, various resort departments, and external vendors, this role demands exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to create memorable and successful events.

The ideal candidate will bring valuable experience from roles such as catering manager or conference services manager within hotel or resort environments featuring event spaces of at least 20,000 square feet and high group volume. Experience managing large, complex multi-day events with thousands of attendees, negotiating program changes, and adeptly multitasking in a dynamic setting is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is required, with sales experience for upselling food, beverage, and meeting services preferred.

Kalahari offers a comprehensive benefits package, including career growth opportunities through internal promotions, 401(k) matching, paid time off, holiday compensation, and health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates. Additionally, employee appreciation events, discounts across all resorts, and education assistance programs are available to support both professional and personal development. This is a full-time position located in several possible resort locations including Wisconsin Dells, WI; Sandusky, OH; Pocono Manor, PA; Round Rock, TX; and Spotsylvania County, VA. Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every team member can thrive.