We Found Your New Favorite Staycation Hot Spot Locale Magazine Editors October 21, 2017 Spread the loveThe General Manager Takes Us Through What Makes the Spot So Special Written By: Nicole Hakim Photographed By: Chad Mellon Expert: Joanna Bear Credentials: General Manager of Surf & Sand Resort Q: How did you start working with the Surf & Sand Resort? Joanna Bear: Another general manager I worked for gave me the opportunity to work for the Surf & Sand Resort. I came out from Arizona and interviewed and it went great. It’s been almost 14 years since then. Q: What makes Surf & Sand Resort different from other resorts? JB: It’s family owned. The location alone is amazing. The people are very special. We have tenured employees that help create a family-like environment. Q: How do you push through any difficulties you have faced? JB: I actually take a deep breath and hit one issue at a time. I have to prioritize, then reprioritize again and again until each challenge is eventually solved. Q: What do you do to ensure the resort runs smoothly? JB: I would say one of the areas I always have to focus on is making sure there are open lines of communication between the departments and ensuring that teamwork is utilized. If you have a passion for communication and teamwork, you find your success. Q: What is your favorite aspect of your job? JB: The people. It’s all about the people. Whether it’s the guests I meet and create connections with or the team members I am able to mentor and work with. Q: If you weren’t in the resort industry, where would you be working and why? JB: I think it would have to be a cruise line. That way, I could have the opportunity to travel the world while doing what I could to help my fellow team members and the guests on the ship. So, it’s a somewhat similar job. Get on Board: As well as being the General Manager, Joanna Bear is also Chairman of the Board for Visit Laguna Beach. Soak In the Sun: Surf & Sand Resort offers a variety of amenities, including an oceanfront pool, aquaterraspa, Splashes Restaurant and much more. Surf & Sand Resort 1555 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 855.690.7114 Book Your Next Staycation at Surf & Sand Resort
