General Manager

Madison Boats is seeking a dynamic and organized leader to serve as the General Manager of our Marshall Boats location on Lake Mendota. This role offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, hospitality, fleet management, and customer service leadership.

Hours: Full TimeLocation: Marshall Boats: 2101 Allen Blvd Madison WI 53562

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The primary responsibility of this position is to create an outstanding lakefront experience for all customers — particularly through the successful operation of a 10-boat pontoon fleet. A strong candidate will have experience managing people, complex logistics, and guest expectations with professionalism and warmth.

This position oversees all aspects of the site’s seasonal operations, including: staffing, reservation logistics and presales, pontoon and paddlecraft rentals, post-trip guest satisfaction, community engagement, risk mitigation, concessions, and events. The GM works in collaboration with the Madison Boats executive team and other site managers, reporting directly to the CEO.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS:Hours (seasonal estimate):

• December – March: 25–30 hrs/week
• April: 40 hrs/week
• May – August: 40–50 hrs/week (includes weekends and holidays)
• September – November: 30–40 hrs/week

Team Leadership:

• Hire, schedule, train, and manage ~30 seasonal staff.
• Build a motivated and supportive team culture through regular coaching and in-season training.
• Develop clear checklists, operating procedures, and communication practices to ensure consistency and accountability.

Customer Experience & Community:

• Foster a warm, inclusive environment where every customer feels welcome and supported.
• Maintain high-touch service, whether helping a first-time boater or hosting a private pontoon cruise.
• Serve as the main point of contact for VIP guests, corporate groups, and large parties.
• Promote membership, events, and additional services through face-to-face interactions and team coordination.

Fleet & Reservation Oversight:

• Lead operations for a fleet of 10 pontoons and over 100 paddle craft, ensuring all equipment is maintained, clean, and lake-ready.
• Oversee all pontoon reservations, including pre-sale strategy, guest coordination, and customer communication.
• Ensure every trip ends with a positive, memorable experience, including feedback collection, issue resolution, and follow-up as needed.
• Train crew in customer service excellence, safety standards, boat orientation, and hospitality best practices.
• Maintain and oversee boat maintenance and repairs (mechanically inclined a plus)

Facilities & Risk:

• Maintain a clean, functional, and safe facility and waterfront environment.
• Manage opening/closing setup and seasonal transitions with care and efficiency.
• Implement weather protocols, safety policies, and risk assessments for all on-water operations.

Events & Programming:

• Host and coordinate signature events like Learn to Pontoon, Independence Day Cruise and SUP Yoga.
• Support custom outings, including private cruises, team-building events, and public paddles.
• Develop new event concepts aligned with community needs and your own passions.

Food & Beverage:

• Oversee concessions, inventory, product ordering, and food safety compliance.
• Lead and train staff in food handling procedures and guest service.

Marketing & Reporting:

• Support on-site marketing efforts including signage, promotions, and ambassador-style word-of-mouth.
• Oversee social media presence in collaboration with the communications team.
• Collect and analyze usage, revenue, and satisfaction data to improve operations.
• Monitor site-specific budgets, expenditures, and performance metrics.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Leadership experience and ability to manage teams with empathy and accountability.
• Strong logistical and operational management skills.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift 75 + lbs and work outdoors in varying weather.

Preferred:

• Experience managing a boat fleet or marine facility.
• Familiarity with FareHarbor or other reservation systems.
• Knowledge of Lake Mendota and safe boating practices.
• Basic mechanical and maintenance skills.
• Food service and/or Wisconsin Food Manager Certification.
• Event coordination or hospitality background.
• Seasonal Work Experience.

COMPENSATION:

• Competitive starting pay depending on experience (salary or hourly, depending on preference)
• Complete coverage of top-tier health insurance with no employee contribution
• Seasonal Performance Bonus
• Unlimited free watercraft access for you and your family
• Flexible, lifestyle-driven schedule
• A chance for a career on the water, improving the quality of life for Madisonians and visitors alike.