General Manager

Summary

The General Manager (GM) is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and daily operations of the waterpark. This role oversees all functional areas, including aquatics, guest services, food and beverage, maintenance, safety, staffing, and financial performance.

The GM ensures an exceptional guest experience while maintaining operational excellence, team performance, profitability, and full compliance with regulatory standards. The GM plays a hands-on leadership role, creating a safe, fun, and engaging environment for guests and team members alike.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and vision for the entire waterpark, ensuring an outstanding guest experience, high-performing teams, and profitable operations.

• Oversee day-to-day park operations across all departments, including aquatics, food and beverage, attractions, admissions, retail, and facilities.

• Lead, develop, and manage the management team and department heads to drive operational excellence, efficiency, and safety.

• Monitor and maintain the highest standards of guest service, cleanliness, and safety throughout the park.

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including health, safety, food service, and aquatic standards.

• Oversee hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance management for all staff in partnership with HR and department managers.

• Lead and support the aquatics team to ensure lifeguards are properly trained and certified through StarGuard ELITE or Ellis & Associates, as applicable, and equipped to maintain water safety standards.

• Manage and monitor all operational budgets, labor forecasting, expense control, and financial reporting for the park.

• Maintain and inspect all park facilities and attractions to ensure equipment is functioning properly, clean, and safe for guests.

• Implement and monitor emergency response procedures, safety drills, and risk management protocols.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in guest service, employee engagement, operational procedures, and cost efficiency.

• Represent the park in a professional manner, building strong relationships with guests, vendors, partners, and community stakeholders.

• Promote a culture of positivity, respect, and accountability throughout the organization.

• Ensure all areas of the park operate according to brand standards, health codes, and company policies.

• Act as the primary point of contact during critical operational issues or emergencies.

• Serve as an ambassador of the waterpark brand and champion a fun, safe, and welcoming environment.

Qualifications and Experience

Required:

• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in the hospitality, attractions, theme park, or waterpark industry.

• Proven experience managing large teams in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

• Strong understanding of operations, financial management, labor scheduling, guest service, and safety compliance.

• Demonstrated success in managing budgets, analyzing P&L statements, and driving revenue while controlling costs.

• Experience overseeing aquatics operations and lifeguard programs, including StarGuard ELITE, Ellis & Associates, or comparable aquatic safety certification programs.

• Strong leadership and team development skills with a hands-on management style.

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and point-of-sale or scheduling systems.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred or Required Upon Hire:

• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification or equivalent.

• CPR/AED/First Aid certification.

• ServSafe and TIPS certifications for oversight of food and beverage operations.

• Knowledge of emergency action planning and safety protocols.

• Experience leading capital improvement projects or operational upgrades.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Must be comfortable working in indoor and outdoor environments in varying weather conditions.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform physical tasks for extended periods.

• Must be on-site during operational hours and available for emergency calls or urgent needs outside of business hours.

• Regular weekend, evening, and holiday work is required.