General Manager

Full-Time

Saltwater Farm General Manager

Title: General Manager

Position:Full-time

Compensation:100-150k + potential for profit sharing. Commensurate w/ experience

Location:Saltwater Farm at Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA

Reports to: Owners

Summary:

We at Saltwater Farm have spent the past 9 years lovingly building the business, the venue, and our community relationships from the ground up. We are seeking an exceptional, experienced, and engaged General Manager to steward what we have created and lead our team and operations into the next phase.

The General Manager is responsible for the overall performance, presentation, and daily function of Saltwater Farm. This role leads the team to deliver seamless events, exceptional guest experiences, and well-maintained facilities, while upholding our values of teamwork, open communication, and environmental and community stewardship. The GM oversees staff, contractors, property, communications, and financial operations, and partners with ownership on decisions that shape the future of the business.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in hospitality, values both systems and people, and takes pride in creating environments that feel seamless, welcoming, and well cared for. Onsite housing may be available.

Responsibilities & Duties

Property & Guest Experience

• Set and uphold the standard for exceptional, hospitality-driven guest experiences across all touchpoints
• Ensure all guest accommodations, event spaces, and facilities are consistently maintained, prepared, and presented to Saltwater Farm standards
• Oversee housekeeping, property presentation, and service execution with a focus on quality, consistency, and detail
• Serve as a primary point of contact for guests, clients, and vendors, ensuring clear communication and alignment with company policies
• Lead the team in delivering seamless service for both Inn guests and event clientele
• Conduct tours for prospective clients and partners, representing the property with professionalism and enthusiasm
• Monitor guest satisfaction and implement continuous improvements to exceed expectations
• Maintain the property in alignment with brand standards and environmental stewardship values
• Cultivate strong relationships within the local business and residential community
• Oversee online presence, reviews, and guest feedback, ensuring brand voice and reputation are consistently upheld
• Address concerns with professionalism, urgency, and thoughtful problem-solving
• Participate in after-hours and emergency on-call coverage as needed

Team Leadership & Organizational Management

• Provide strong, values-driven leadership to a team of approximately 6–25 employees
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, inclusivity, and pride in work
• Oversee all aspects of recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and ongoing team development
• Design and implement training programs that support operational excellence and professional growth
• Conduct performance evaluations and manage employee relations with clarity and integrity
• Create and manage staffing schedules and lead regular team and management meetings
• Ensure compliance with Washington State employment laws and best practices
• Partner with ownership to maintain an effective and scalable organizational structure
• Lead the integration and management of new roles as the business evolves

Financial & Strategic Oversight

• Oversee budgets, financial performance, and key operational metrics
• Collaborate with ownership on pricing strategies, compensation structures, and growth investments
• Hold team leaders accountable to financial and operational goals
• Approve expenditures and ensure accurate, timely financial management
• Identify and implement opportunities to improve efficiency, profitability, and long-term sustainability

Business Operations & Systems

• Direct day-to-day operations while continuously refining systems, workflows, and processes
• Develop and maintain infrastructure for bookings, inquiries, financial tracking, vendor relations, and customer experience
• Oversee contracts, policies, and operational documentation, ensuring accuracy and consistency
• Maintain compliance with all licenses, permits, and regulatory requirements
• Identify and mitigate operational risks and liabilities
• Support marketing and outreach efforts, including optimizing existing channels and identifying new opportunities
• Represent Saltwater Farm at industry events, including wedding shows and promotional activations as needed

Administrative Leadership

• Oversee all primary communication channels, ensuring timely, professional responses
• Manage company systems including email, calendars, and shared digital platforms
• Maintain presence and performance across relevant lodging and event platforms
• Ensure SOPs and internal processes remain current, effective, and consistently followed

Values, Community & Growth

• Maintain open, proactive communication with ownership, exercising sound judgment on when to escalate or collaborate
• Champion Saltwater Farm’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement
• Actively participate in local organizations (Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau, etc.) to strengthen community ties
• Stay informed on industry trends and pursue ongoing professional development
• Maintain a working knowledge of all roles to support the team as needed
• Contribute strategic ideas and initiatives to enhance and grow the business

This role offers meaningful growth potential, including the opportunity to expand into broader operational leadership across additional hospitality ventures as Saltwater Farm continues to grow and develop new concepts on the island.

Expectations

• Take full ownership of overall operations, performance, and guest experience
• Lead with initiative, accountability, and a strong, hands-on work ethic
• Build, motivate, and retain a high-performing team
• Operate autonomously while maintaining strong alignment with ownership
• Execute all responsibilities in accordance with brand standards, values, and policies
• Act as a thoughtful and authentic ambassador of Saltwater Farm
• Remain adaptable and willing to step into any role to support the team and business
• Communicate clearly, receive feedback constructively, and foster a collaborative environment
• Uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and inclusivity

Qualifications & Skills

• Degree in Hospitality, Business Management, or related field or 5+ years of senior leadership experience in hospitality or a related industry
• Minimum 3 years of personnel management experience required
• Experience in hotel and/or event venue management strongly preferred
• Demonstrated strength in operations, team leadership, and financial management
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and time management
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to lead effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Additional experience or interest in farming, gardening, design, or related disciplines is a plus
• Valid Washington State driver’s license
• Ability to lift 50 lbs regularly and up to 75 lbs occasionally

To apply please send résumé and cover letter to merriss@saltwaterfarmsji.com