Great opportunity to lead a rare and unique boutique glamping property

Posted: Aug 14, 2026

General Manager

Walden Retreats

Johnson City, Texas

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


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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

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
About CoolWorks

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