- Wages/Pay
- $72,500.00 - $75,000.00 / year
- Experience Level
- Previous experience required
- Job Start Date
- Sep 14, 2026
This is a unique opportunity to run a one of a kind property. We’re building something different—an experience-driven, design-forward retreat that blends hospitality, nature, and community. And we’re looking for a leader who wants to own it. At its core, a great GM is responsible for the entire operation—team, guest experience, and financial performance. But this role goes beyond operations.
Our Mission
Make the outdoor experience comfortable and convenient
Our Vision
Create luxury camping experiences that foster rest and provide an intimate connection with nature
Impact Statement
Redefining the outdoor experience
Core Beliefs
We believe immersing oneself in nature is the best environment for restoration
We believe enjoying the outdoors should be comfortable, accessible and enjoyable
We believe in the power of thoughtful yet simplistic design
The Opportunity
This is not a traditional hotel General Manager role. We are seeking a hands-on, entrepreneurial operator to take full ownership of the performance of our Hill Country property—leading day-to-day operations while helping scale and evolve the business. The right candidate will combine operational excellence with a builder’s mindset: someone who can lead a team, improve systems, drive financial performance, and play a key role in the next phase of growth. We are looking for someone who can take what has been built and elevate it—someone who treats this property as their own and is excited to help define its next chapter.
What You’ll Own
You will be accountable for the overall success of the property, including:
Operations & Team Leadership
Build, lead, and develop a high-performing on-site team across guest services, housekeeping, and maintenance
Establish clear standards, accountability, and culture across all departments
Recruit, train, and manage staff, including performance reviews and staffing strategy
Lead daily operations while maintaining a strong on-site presence during key guest touch points
Guest Experience
Own the end-to-end guest experience, ensuring exceptional service from booking through departure
Maintain high guest satisfaction and online reputation across all platforms
Oversee group bookings, events, and special experiences
Continuously refine the guest journey to align with the Walden brand
Financial Performance
Own day-to-day financial performance of the property
Manage labor, expenses, and purchasing in alignment with budget
Partner with ownership on annual budgeting and forecasting
Identify opportunities to improve revenue, margins, and operational efficiency
Revenue & Systems Management
Own pricing, availability, and distribution strategy across all booking channels (direct, OTA, group)
Manage PMS and operational systems to ensure efficiency and accuracy
Optimize occupancy, ADR, and revenue mix
Property & Asset Management
Ensure the property is maintained to a high standard across all accommodations and common areas
Oversee maintenance, preventative care, and capital projects
Conduct regular property walks and identify opportunities for improvement
Expansion & Growth
Support ownership in planning and executing property expansion, including additional accommodations, amenities, and programming
Help build scalable systems and processes to support future growth
Contribute to long-term strategic decisions for the property and brand
What Success Looks Like
Success in this role will be measured by:
Strong financial performance (revenue growth, cost control, NOI improvement)
High guest satisfaction and online ratings
A reliable, accountable, and motivated team
Smooth and efficient day-to-day operations
Meaningful contributions to the expansion and evolution of the property
Who This Role Is For
A hands-on leader who takes ownership and accountability
Someone comfortable operating in a fast-moving, non-corporate environment
A builder who enjoys improving systems and growing a business
A hospitality professional who cares deeply about creating memorable experiences for our guests
Someone who is equally comfortable leading a team and stepping in to solve problems directly
Who This Role Is NOT For
Those seeking a highly structured corporate environment
Those who prefer to delegate without staying close to operations
Those uncomfortable with ambiguity or evolving responsibilities
Qualifications
Managerial experience at boutique hotel, event venue, or other hospitality business
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards
Excellent leadership, organizational, and multitasking abilities
Ability to lead, motivate, and manage a team effectively
Proficiency in using hotel management software and tools
How to Apply
Please send a resume and cover letter to bsmith@waldenretreats.com. The letter should outline why you are interested in the position and what specific skills and experience you have that make you the right fit.
Contact Info
- Blake Smith
- bsmith@waldenretreats.com
- (830) 330-1128
- www.waldenretreats.com
Walden Retreats
Walden Retreats is a growing hospitality brand redefining the outdoor experience through thoughtfully designed, nature-based accommodations. Our property currently has 15 luxury tented rooms, a lobby with general store and large event space for weddings, corporate and private events.
- Location
- Texas
- Season
- Year Round
- Staff size
- 7
- Housing
- Employer housing is not available, but resources are provided to help staff find housing in our area.
- Housing details
- We have a space for someone with an RV to connect and live on site. All utilities and free laundry service is included.
- Family housing available
- Yes
- Single occupancy housing available
- Yes
- Pet friendly
- Yes
- Meals
- None
- Cell phone service
- Yes, most carriers
- Internet access
- Good
