Area Manager, Guest Experience

Valleyfair LLC•Shakopee, MN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Guest Experience Area Manager is a frontline operational leader responsible for executing daily park operations that shape guests' first and lasting impressions. Reporting to the Director of Park Operations, this role oversees Admissions, Guest Services, and Park Services teams, including Custodial and Grounds. The Area Manager ensures safe, clean, efficient, and guest-focused operations while leading large seasonal teams and supporting peak attendance periods.

Requirements

4–6+ years of progressive experience in guest services, admissions, custodial, or park operations.
Proven experience supervising large frontline and seasonal workforces.
Strong understanding of guest service standards and service recovery.
Ability to lead in a fast-paced, high-volume, outdoor operating environment.
Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and labor scheduling or workforce management systems.
Ability to obtain an OSHA Forklift Certification.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Business, Operations, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Enhance overall guest experience by leading day-to-day operations for Admissions, Guest Services, and Park Services (Custodial & Grounds).
Ensure exceptional first impressions through efficient entry processes, friendly service, and park cleanliness.
Maintain high standards of cleanliness across all park areas to enhance visitor experience.
Execute operational plans, staffing models, and schedules aligned with attendance and business needs.
Lead a team that actively improves guest experience through proactive engagement, assistance, and service resolution.
Supervise, coach, and develop supervisors and frontline leaders to drive accountability and engagement.
Monitor admissions throughput, guest flow, cleanliness standards, and service recovery efforts.
Respond to and resolve guest concerns, complaints, and service escalations in real time.
Enforce safety standards, policies, and procedures to support a safe environment for guests and associates.
Support recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance management of seasonal associates.
Manage supply inventory, including monitoring stock levels and ordering supplies to meet operational needs.
Monitor labor usage and productivity to meet departmental budgets and targets.
Monitor operational expenses to meet departmental budgets and targets.
Manage operating supply expense budget.
Partner with Operational leadership during peak periods, special events, and incidents.
Provide operational updates, metrics, and recommendations to park leadership.
Assist with the maintenance of park equipment and facilities.