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:

• Integrity above all else: maintaining our principles--honestly, consistently -- is essential to the creation of trust between ourselves, our guests and our colleagues.
• Address with purpose: make every interaction intentional, thoughtful, and grounded in genuine care, so that guests feel seen, valued and understood.
• Quality that is obvious: excellence must be self-evident across all brand touchpoints, from our guests first impressions to the cherished memories.
• Innovation, not emulation: lead with fresh thinking and perspective to create experiences that set new standards rather than follow established ones. 
• Teamwork, camaraderie and fun: By working with and supporting each other, we foster an environment where collaboration thrives and enjoyment is a natural part of the process. 
• A culture of trust and respect: We must treat one another with transparency and dignity in order to build a workplace where every voice matters and everyone belongs. 

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.