Culture

At Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the work culture is rooted in teamwork, community, and appreciation for both people and place. Our 900-acre resort operates as the premier destination for lodging, golf, events, and recreation in Northern Michigan, helping attract tourism and business to the region.

Our mission is simple: To deliver exceptional guest experiences while supporting local economic development, job creation, and the growth of the Northern Michigan community.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN NEW HIRES:

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa looks for people who bring energy, positivity, and a strong commitment to great service. We want team players who take pride in their work, show up ready to help others, and are passionate about creating memorable experiences for every guest. Anyone interested in joining our work family must embody the following skills:

• A Mindset Built on Customer Service and Empathy: A genuine passion for helping others, anticipating guest needs, and creating memorable, positive experiences.
• Strong Communication Skills: Smiling, helpful, and professional verbal and non-verbal communication, including active listening to address guest needs effectively.
• Flexibility: The ability to remain calm and efficient during unexpected situations, peak hours, or when multitasking in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Team Mentality: A collaborative attitude, willing to support colleagues, share tasks, and contribute to the Resort’s success.
• Attention to Detail: A keen eye for small details that have impact on the guest experience, such as room cleanliness, table settings, or remembering guest preferences.
• Professionalism and Emotional Intelligence: The ability to read situations, handle difficult customers with grace, and maintain a positive, welcoming demeanor even when stressed.
• Reliability and Strong Work Ethic: Punctuality, dependability, and a willingness to go above and beyond to ensure service excellence.
• Problem-Solving Skills: The capacity to think on your feet, address complaints, and find quick solutions to unexpected issues.
• Cultural Awareness: Sensitivity and openness to working with diverse guests and colleagues from various countries and/or backgrounds.
• Growth Mindset: A willingness to learn, accept feedback, and develop new skills.

HOW WE WORK:

Our departments work closely together to create a smooth and enjoyable experience for guests. Teams from areas like housekeeping, dining, golf, and banquets all support each other, ensuring that every part of a guest’s stay runs seamlessly. This collaborative environment encourages employees to work across departments, share responsibility, and contribute to the overall success of the resort.

A CULTURE OF DIVERSITY:

At Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, diversity and inclusion are an important part of the workplace culture. The Resort is owned by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, and this heritage helps shape an environment that respects different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. The resort celebrates the traditions of its tribal owners while welcoming employees and guests from many communities, creating a workplace built on respect, cultural awareness, and shared pride in the region.

Each year, we employ over 100 international workers from countries including Jamaica, Honduras, Kenya, South Africa, Brazil, and more. We also employ a group of student interns from colleges and universities from various parts of the U.S.