Executive Searches

Searches

GENERAL MANAGER FOR UNIVERSITY CLUB OF GRAND RAPIDS

https://universityclubgr.com

Exclusive Search by Harper Associates

The Club:

University Club of Grand Rapids, an exquisite private club, was founded in 1923. With exceptional, personalized service, cozy charm and a first class setting, the Club serves as an ideal venue for business executives and the local community. Located in the beautiful Fifth Third Center in downtown Grand Rapids, the club has unparalleled, spectacular, panoramic views of the city. With a capacity of 300 guests, the Club is a popular choice for hosting small and large meetings, special events, weddings and all types of social gatherings. Reciprocity with more than 100 other clubs is another advantage for members who travel frequently.

In addition to dining options and meeting spaces, the Athletic Club is open 24 hours and amenities include a pool, exercise room, basketball court, hot tub, steam room, sauna and lounge.

• Number of Members – 560 pre-COVID, 407 currently
• Age of club - 98 years old
• Average age of member – 55 years old
• Size: 11,900 sq. ft. plus athletic club downstairs 13,400 sq.ft.
• Gross Dollar volume - $1.7M+
• Annual Food Sales - $872,000+
• Annual Beverage Sales - $249,000+
• Annual Dues Volume - $631,000+
• Dining Facilities: several a la carte dining rooms and lounge, casual lunch buffet in Athletic Club

General Manager Overview:

The General Manager of The University Club of Grand Rapids is a highly visible position and individual must possess the skills of interacting with members and promote guest satisfaction. The GM is ultimately responsible for all aspects of club operations and reports to a Board of Directors. Will lead a team of supervisors including an Assistant Manager, Bar Manager and/or a Food and Beverage Manager, Event Planner, Marketing Director, Executive Chef, Office Manager and Athletic Director. The GM is a working manager position where they indirectly supervise office, kitchen and athletic facility personnel, wait staff and housekeeping therefore candidates must realize the importance of good communication between management and their staff.

The ideal candidate has strong leadership, communication, and managerial skills to oversee the daily operations of the club, as well as, provide long term strategic vision and guidance. The General Manager will be actively involved in developing programs to grow membership and will help to increase presence in downtown Grand Rapids through networking with community leaders. Looking for GM to elevate food, beverage and catering operations along with staff development. New catering sales program needs to be spearheaded. The membership will embrace an experienced professional with new ideas, food and beverage expertise, social media savvy, and creativity in club member events. Will also review and improve member communications – digital, club calendar, newsletter, emails, etc.

Education and/or Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year university preferred, with an emphasis on hospitality.
• 5+ years of experience as a General Manager, Assistant General Manager, or Clubhouse Manager in a private club setting. Background in luxury hotels/fine dining restaurants or upscale catering venues may also be considered.
• Experience with club finances, committees, P&L statements.
• Extensive food, beverage and catering management experience required.
• Candidates in Michigan or with ties to the area preferred.
• Exceptional people skills mandatory, with emphasis on member and employee relations.

Salary and Benefits: Commensurate with the knowledge, skills, and experience noted above. Medical, Life and Dental Insurance paid by the University Club. Vacation, Sick and Personal Days Use of the athletic facility and meals are included for employee only.

HOW TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION

Please send cover letter and explain why your background makes you an ideal candidate for this opportunity. Email cover letter addressed to University Club of Grand Rapids Search Committee along with your resume directly to Harper Associates: ben@harperjobs.com

LEASING ADMINISTRATOR - RETAIL INDUSTRY - DETROIT , MI SUBURBS

 Desirable, newly created position available with a prominent real estate/property management company in the retail industry. The Lease Administrator will manage all paperwork and documents related to leasing including legal documents, center resumes, sales reports, tenant relations and communications.

Lease Administrator responsibilities:

• Review and track Lease Order Forms
• Track and review incoming legal documents from outside counsel and prepare Variance Report
• Facilitate landlord execution of legal documents
• Communicate new and expiring Storage Leases to Management.
• Update logs as deals are completed
• Maintain legal document file drawers
• Update Center Resumes daily for all Centers for management review and distribution
• Review tenant rent steps monthly, update internal database (Yardi)
• Prepare new charge letters for distribution to tenants.
• Update promotional fee spreadsheets throughout year
• Review Tenant Sales Reports for, enter into internal database, and reconcile by deadlines for management review and distribution
• Create new monthly tabs for subsequent monthly sales reports
• Identify missing sales and work to secure from tenants and find any missing sales that may require estimates for management review and approval
• Track and assess revised sales reports received from tenants for management approval
• Prepare Tenant Notifications for all store openings, closing, changes and inform staff
• Send correspondence and other documents to Tenants, Attorneys, etc.
• Assist with phone coverage as needed
• Special projects when requested

We are seeking an experienced professional who has handled leasing activities in a similar type of company. This role requires a very efficient, detail-oriented individual who is extremely organized. Advanced MS Office computer skills along with Yardi database are essential for success in this role. Must have good writing skills. Degree preferred.

Excellent salary and benefits! Beautiful corporate office!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to: ben@harperjobs.com

LEASING ASSOCIATE - THE LOFTS OF MERCHANTS ROW - DETROIT, MI

Harper Associates has been retained for this search.

Are you an Apartment Leasing Associate or Hotel Sales Manager looking for a change? Want to work in a luxury property in the most vibrant area of Downtown Detroit? This may be a great match for you!

We have an amazing opportunity to join The Lofts of Merchants Row, a highly desired luxury apartment community in the heart of Downtown Detroit. The Leasing Associate primarily focuses on sales and making sure residents' needs are met and exceeded.

Qualifications:

• • 3-5 years experience as an Apartment Leasing Associate or Hotel Sales Manager
• • Exceptional sales and relationship-building skills
• • Excellent customer service skills
• • Ability to work full time Monday-Friday, with the occasional Saturday
• • Experience as a leader in either hotel sales or apartment leasing

Benefits:

• Excellent compensation package
• Profit sharing bonus
• Excellent health benefits
• Great hours
• Room for advancement
• Sell a beautiful luxury property!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to kevin@harperjobs.com

DIRECTOR OF LEASING & MARKETING - THE LOFTS OF MERCHANTS ROW  -    DETROIT, MI

Harper Associates has been retained for this search.

Are you an Apartment Leasing Manager or Hotel Sales Manager looking for a change? Want to work in a luxury property in the most vibrant area of Downtown Detroit? This may be a great match for you!

We have an amazing opportunity to join The Lofts of Merchants Row, a highly desired luxury apartment community in the heart of Downtown Detroit. The Director of Leasing & Marketing primarily focuses on sales, marketing, and creating relationships with downtown companies to ensure maximum occupancy. Will also directly oversee leasing agents and be the point person for handling customer service and tenant relations.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years experience as an Apartment Leasing Manager or Hotel Sales Manager
• Exceptional sales and relationship-building skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work full time Monday-Friday, with the occasional Saturday
• Experience as a leader in either hotel sales or apartment leasing

Benefits:

• Excellent compensation package
• Profit sharing bonus
• Excellent health benefits
• Great hours
• Room for advancement
• Sell a beautiful luxury property

Send resume in a Word format attachment to kevin@harperjobs.com

LANDSCAPE DESIGNER - DETROIT SUBURBS, MI

Searching for Landscaping Design/Architect professionals to join this premier design-build landscape company, offering high-end design, including 3D modeling, installation, and maintenance to the metro Detroit area. This company has a versatile team of landscape architects, designers, horticulturalists and installation experts. As a member of the design staff, you will be responsible for working with sales managers to design and create landscape plans, details, and 3D models according to a client’s specifications and preferences. Applicants should be well versed in current design programs and standards and have a strong knowledge of horticulture.

Requirements:

• Strong knowledge and creativity in Landscape Design
• Bachelor’s Degree in Landscape Architecture/Design, Horticulture or experience in 3D modeling
• High level of proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Suites, and Microsoft Office
• 3D computer modeling skills (SketchUP and Lumion)
• Strong plant knowledge
• Working knowledge of Google Earth
• Excellent communication skills

Send resume in a Word format attachment to: ben@harperjobs.com

VP OF FINANCE / CONTROLLER - METRO DETROIT, MI

Successful restaurant group is seeking an experienced VP of Finance/Controller to manage finance and accounting aspects of the business. Reporting to the CFO, the VP of Finance/Controller will work collaboratively with the C-Suite and operations team to develop systems and controls to assist with anticipated growth. Will handle financial reporting, AP/AR, payroll, month-end and annual closing activities, bookkeeping, risk management, forecasting, cash management, audits, budgeting, compliance and internal controls.

Desired Qualifications include:

• At least 5 years of finance/accounting with Controller level responsibilities
• Previous accounting/finance work in Restaurant/Retail environment preferred
• Advanced accounting software user and administration skills
• Expertise developing financial statements
• Experience with month-end/year end close process and general ledger
• Knowledge of software development and database administration advantageous
• Above average MS Excel and PowerPoint proficiency

In addition to possessing the required qualifications and experience for this role, the ideal candidate will be an outstanding communicator, with a proven track record in a fast paced, expanding organization/company. We are searching for a candidate who has an entrepreneurial spirit and very sales minded, as well as ROI focused.

Excellent six figure salary and benefits!

Send resume in a Word format attachment to: ben@harperjobs.com

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR - LAW FIRM - BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI

Harper Associates is confidentially representing a boutique law firm in Bloomfield Hills, MI in their search for an experienced Office Manager/Law Firm Administrator to manage the daily activities of their office. This is a full-time, Monday-Friday opportunity.

Position responsibilities will encompass:

Office administration:

• Serve as liaison with vendors to maintain and install systems, including IT, firm website, software, internet/phones, copiers, printers, any subscriptions, attorney memberships and legal research/marketing sites.
• Organize the firm’s electronic storage, file systems and management files.
• Direct the purchase of office supplies and equipment.
• Monitor office facilities and inform building management of any issue which require attention.
• Inform all staff of any pertinent information or firm related events.
• Coordinate planning and facilitation of meetings and social gatherings.
• Collaborate with firm’s managing partner for major accounting and management matters.

 Bookkeeping/Finance:

• Handle accounts payable and receivable and bank deposits.
• Process all invoicing and processing of payments, including client billings and correspond with clients in relation to their billing/payment matters.
• Provide support in regard to client expense recoveries, accounts payable, and maintaining tax documents.
• Create financial, operational and accounting reports and work with firm’s outside accountants.
• Maintain budgets and record expenses and coordinate expense reports.

Human Resources:

• Handle payroll and administration of the firm’s 401(k) plan.
• Serve as administrator for firm’s insurance coverage and group insurance policies.
• Maintain employee records.
• Facilitate hiring, training and coaching for all new office employees.
• Oversee support team members, staffing issues and monitor and adjust workflow.
• Conduct staff performance evaluations on a yearly basis.

Desired Qualifications include:

• College degree is preferred.
• Previous office management experience, law firm advantageous but not mandatory.
• Outstanding ability to manage, organize, prioritize and communicate.
• Understanding the need for and assuring confidentiality and respect for client interests.
• Act as professional role model to promote a positive and productive work setting.
• Exceptional working knowledge of Microsoft Office and accounting/timekeeping/billing software.

Excellent salary commensurate with experience, in addition to terrific benefits (health, life, long-term disability, dental, flex plan and 401K).

Send resume in a Word format attachment to:  ben@harperjobs.com

VICE PRESIDENT - GENERAL MANAGER - DESIRABLE MID-MICHIGAN LOCATION

Catering and Conference Center

Our client, a premier catering facility and conference center, specializes in both social and corporate events including weddings, trade shows, conferences, proms and other gatherings. The venue can accommodate up to 2000 guests and off-site catering is also offered at preferred venues and personal residences.

The VP/General Manager plays a major role in providing leadership to help the company reach their goal of absolute customer satisfaction. This objective is achieved through the execution of high quality production and standards, the development of the staff and building strong client relationships. Directing all facets of operations, budgeting, profitability, sales and marketing for the conference center and other food service establishments will be the responsibility of this Catering Executive.

We are searching for a candidate who has experience overseeing $6 million+ in annual F&B sales, with strong emphasis in P&L, staff training, culinary operations and marketing & sales of company venues. Active involvement in the local community will be essential for success. Hospitality Degree highly desirable. Excellent six figure salary and incentive package. 

Send resume in a Word format attachment to ben@harperjobs.com

LANDSCAPE SALESPERSON COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL - METRO DETROIT, MI

Prominent landscape Design/Build company is actively seeking to fill a landscape design sales position that will help grow our firm and keep up with accelerating demand. The main responsibilities are following up with clients seeking commercial and residential design and installation services, and to develop new relationships with commercial clientele. Our client has a dedicated and talented design team that will assist you in conceptualizing, finalizing and estimating the visions of your clients. This unique team approach allows you to lead the design process and gives you time to focus on sales and building a strong client base. The production team, led by a Project Manager and job-specific foreman, that will install your final design. This experienced team will expertly execute the installation of your design vision. This opportunity in design sales allows for great self-directed success and is a central and key position within the company. $60,000 salary plus commissions.

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Creative passion and talent
• Strong sales, communication, and organizational ability
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills are essential
• Ability to manage time and multiple projects effectively
• Able to evaluate sales leads
• Design-build experience and construction practices background are a plus
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suites
• 3D modeling and Google Earth is a plus but not required

Send resume in a Word format attachment to: ben@harperjobs.com

NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR - JIFFY MIX - ANN ARBOR AREA, MI

Join one of the nation's most successful food manufacturers!

Harper Associates has been retained by Chelsea Milling Company to identify a seasoned veteran who can offer strategic insight and expertise to help grow both the retail and foodservice sides of the business. Jiffy Mix is the #1 selling dry baking mix nationwide, and the company recently completed a major expansion to accommodate the growing foodservice segment.

Chelsea Milling Company has been Making Jiffy Mix since 1930 and has stood the test of time, never once having to lay off employees due to an economic downturn. The leader in prepared baking mixes, Jiffy has dominated the grocery/retail market, and the company is now offering Jiffy Mix to the foodservice and restaurant business! The National Sales Director position is newly created and offers the right person an amazing opportunity to make a huge impact on this iconic brand.

BENEFITS

• Unrivaled company culture - there is virtually zero turnover and employee tenure is an average of 17 years
• A foundation built on honesty and integrity
• Exceptional salary and health benefits
• Profit-sharing bonuses
• Great work/life balance
• Health and wellness programs

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Immerse in the company's culture of interdependent communication and decision making. Must be able to listen and understand varied points of view in CMC's flat organization structure, where status, power, and authority are de-emphasized
• Work cross-functionally with administration, accounting, logistics, accounts receivable, customer service, information services, sales, and other stakeholders to achieve goals and solve problems
• Ensure timely execution of and implementation of action plans
• Develop, maintain, and utilize a wide network of external data resources, i.e. industry experts, associations, organizations, customers, competitors, & suppliers
• Assist in development of organizational structure to support the retail and foodservice businesses
• Utilize market research and networking to prospect and develop new business opportunities and accounts
• Work with CMC leaders to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of price models, earned income, and support programs
• Monitor inventory levels, identify sources of issues related to shortage/excess, investigate corrective action, and ensure effective communication with sales teams and customers
• Demonstrate strength of character to persevere through obstacles and meet goals
• Collect high-level and detailed market and competitive intelligence information

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum 10-15 years' experience in both foodservice and retail sales, preferably selling dry baking mix
• Must have leadership experience as a National Sales Director or VP of Sales
• Experience using a CRM system and Trade Fund Management software to manage workflows
• Strong computer, communication and presentation skills, and the ability to work cross-functionally
• Excellent relationship building skills
• Demonstrated success in nurturing, developing and closing business in large foodservice and retail accounts
• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
• Strong planning, organization, and negotiating skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
• High energy and strong drive and passion for success
• This position is based at the company HQ in Chelsea, MI and is not available to remote candidates

Ideal candidates would be those that meet the minimum qualifications and are looking for a long-term career with a privately held company that focuses on people. Must enjoy a team environment and thrive on camaraderie.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to kevin@harperjobs.com

FOODSERVICE BUSINESS MANAGER (SALES) - JIFFY FOODSERVICE (Ann Arbor Area)

Join one of the nation's most successful foodservice manufacturers!

Harper Associates has been retained by the Jiffy Foodservice to identify a star Foodservice Sales Manager to help grow the restaurant / food service division! Jiffy Foodservice recently completed a major expansion to accommodate the growing foodservice segment, and this is a great opportunity for a foodservice sales veteran to help grow Jiffy's footprint!

Chelsea Milling Company has been Making Jiffy Mix since 1930 and has stood the test of time, never once having to lay off employees due to an economic downturn. The leader in prepared baking mixes, Jiffy has dominated the grocery/retail market, and the company is now offering Jiffy Mix to the foodservice and restaurant business! The Foodservice Sales Manager position is newly created and offers the right person an amazing opportunity to make a huge impact on the growth of this newly created division!

BENEFITS

• Unrivaled company culture - there is virtually zero turnover and employee tenure is an average of 17 years
• A foundation built on honesty and integrity
• Exceptional salary and health benefits
• Profit-sharing bonuses
• Great work/life balance
• Health and wellness programs

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Utilize market research and networking to prospect and develop new business opportunities and accounts
• Collaborate with prospects and customers to develop growth strategies for mutual benefit
• Deliver sales presentations to potential and existing customers
• Partner with clients to analyze menus and offer solutions to add value
• Use CRM tool and other computer software to maintain customer base
• Travel (local and nationwide) up to 60% of the time to meet customers, perform product presentations, attend trade shows, etc.
• Have an in-depth knowledge of all products and services offered

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, Hospitality or Culinary Arts, or equivalent related experience
• 8-10 years prior Foodservice sales experience
• Experience using a CRM system to manage work flow
• Strong understanding of foodservice distribution segments
• Strong computer, communication and presentation skills, and the ability to work cross-functionally
• Demonstrated success in nurturing and developing Food Service business
• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

Ideal candidates would be those that meet the minimum qualifications and are looking for a long-term home with a privately held company that focuses on people. Must enjoy a team environment and thrive on camaraderie.

Send resume in a Word format attachment to kevin@harperjobs.com