Top 11 Resort Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a resort manager in the job market as they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a resort. In addition, certifications can help differentiate a resort manager from other applicants, as they provide proof of their professional qualifications and expertise. Certifications also provide assurance to employers that the resort manager has received appropriate training in areas such as customer service, hospitality management, and financial management, which are all essential for running a successful resort. Finally, certifications often come with additional benefits such as access to industry resources, networking opportunities, and discounts on travel or education.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Resort Managers and explain how they can help to enhance a resort manager's career.

What are Resort Manager Certifications?

Resort manager certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage a resort. This certification provides evidence of an individual's qualifications and expertise in the field, which can be beneficial for both employers and employees.

For employers, having a resort manager with certification demonstrates their commitment to quality service. It also shows that they are taking their employee’s development seriously and have invested in the training needed to ensure success. Having certified employees can help improve customer satisfaction, ensuring guests receive the highest quality experience while staying at the resort.

For employees, obtaining certification can help demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and competency in managing all aspects of a resort. Certification offers recognition as an expert in the field and provides assurance that they possess the necessary skills to perform successfully on the job. Earning this certification can also open doors to new opportunities for career advancement or increased responsibility within their current organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a resort manager certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for the specific program you are interested in. Some certifications require professional experience or specific educational requirements, while others may only need to be completed online.

Related: What does a Resort Manager do?

Top 11 Resort Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Resort Managers today.

1. Certified Resort Manager (CRM)

Certified Resort Manager (CRM) is a professional designation awarded by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the management of resorts and other hospitality properties. The CRM program focuses on developing core competencies in areas such as business planning, financial management, marketing, human resources, technology, and customer service.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the program. To get the CRM designation, you must first complete AHLEI's Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) program or its equivalent. After completing CHS, you can then enroll in the CRM program.

The cost of the CRM program varies depending on your location and whether you take it online or in-person. In general, it costs around $2,000 for tuition and materials.

2. Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)

Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward hospitality professionals who demonstrate excellence in their field. The CHS program is offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI).

The CHS program consists of an online self-study course, followed by an exam that tests the student’s knowledge of the material. The course covers topics such as customer service, sales and marketing, operations management, financial management, human resources management, and legal issues.

To become certified as a CHS, students must complete the self-study course and pass an exam with a minimum score of 70%. The exam can be taken at any AHLEI-approved testing center or online through ProctorU. It typically takes around 8-10 hours to complete the self-study course and another 2-3 hours to take the exam.

The cost for the CHS program varies depending on whether you purchase just the self-study materials or if you also include proctored exam fees. The cost for just the self-study materials is $299 USD; however, if you include proctored exam fees it will cost $349 USD.

Once you have successfully completed all requirements for certification, you will receive your Certified Hospitality Supervisor certificate from AHLEI.

3. Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA)

The Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of hospitality professionals. It is the highest level of recognition in the hospitality industry, demonstrating to employers that an individual has achieved a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations.

The CHA program consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as hotel operations, customer service, marketing, finance and accounting, and human resources. The practical assessment requires candidates to complete a series of tasks related to hotel operations.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the CHA program depending on the individual’s experience and work schedule. Candidates must first apply for the program through AHLEI (American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute). After being accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take an online exam and then attend a two-day workshop or seminar where they will receive hands-on training in hotel operations. Once both components are completed successfully, candidates will receive their CHA certification.

The cost for the CHA program varies depending on whether you choose to take the online exam or attend a workshop or seminar. The online exam costs $395 USD while attending a two-day workshop or seminar can range from $495 USD up to $795 USD depending on location and other factors.

4. Certified Resort and Conference Center Professional (CRCP)

Certified Resort and Conference Center Professional (CRCP) is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest level of expertise in the resort and conference center industry. This certification is offered by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC).

The CRCP program consists of an online self-study course, as well as a three-day onsite workshop. The online course covers topics such as customer service, marketing, finance, operations, and technology. The onsite workshop provides hands-on experience with IACC standards for customer service, meeting room design and setup, food and beverage service, event planning, and more.

It typically takes two to three months to complete the CRCP program. To get started, you must first register for the course through IACC’s website. The cost of registration varies depending on whether you are an IACC member or not. For non-members, it costs $2195 USD; for members it costs $1895 USD.

5. Certified Hospitality Operations Manager (CHOM)

Certified Hospitality Operations Manager (CHOM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of experienced hospitality operations managers. It is offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI).

The CHOM program consists of three components: an online course, an exam and a practical application project. The online course covers topics such as human resources management, financial management, marketing and customer service. The exam tests your knowledge of the material covered in the course. Finally, you must complete a practical application project that demonstrates your ability to apply what you have learned in the course.

It typically takes between four and six months to complete the CHOM program. To get started, you will need to register for the program on AHLEI's website and pay a fee of $1,495 USD. This fee includes access to all materials needed for the program as well as two attempts at passing the exam.

Once you have completed all components of the program successfully, you will be awarded with a Certified Hospitality Operations Manager certificate from AHLEI. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or completing continuing education credits every year.

6. Certified Hospitality Industry Executive (CHIE)

Certified Hospitality Industry Executive (CHIE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest level of knowledge, skills, and expertise in the hospitality industry. The CHIE program is administered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), a division of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).

The CHIE certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in areas such as hospitality operations, finance, marketing, human resources management, food and beverage management, and technology. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least five years of full-time professional experience in any combination of these areas.

In order to obtain the CHIE designation, applicants must complete an online application form and submit it along with their resume or CV. Once approved by AHLA, they will be required to take an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of hospitality management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $395 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CHIE certificate from AHLA.

7. Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP)

Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It is designed to provide hospitality sales professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in their roles. The CHSP certification is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of hospitality sales, from understanding customer needs and developing relationships to creating effective proposals and closing deals.

The CHSP certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course includes topics such as customer service, sales techniques, negotiation strategies, marketing concepts, and more. The exam tests your knowledge on these topics and evaluates your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios. To earn the CHSP certification, you must pass both the online course and the exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of the CHSP certification program varies depending on whether you choose to take the online course or attend an in-person training session. The online course costs $495 USD while attending an in-person training session will cost $695 USD. Both options include access to study materials, practice exams, and a voucher for the final exam.

It typically takes between 6-8 weeks to complete the CHSP certification program depending on how much time you have available for studying each week.

8. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize meeting and event professionals who have achieved a level of excellence in the field. It is administered by the Convention Industry Council (CIC).

The CMP program requires that applicants meet certain education, experience, and examination requirements. In order to be eligible for the CMP designation, an individual must have at least three years of full-time meeting or event management experience within the past five years. They must also have completed 25 hours of continuing education related to meetings and events within the past five years. Finally, they must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as finance, legal issues, marketing, risk management, technology, and more.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all of the necessary requirements for the CMP designation. The cost of obtaining the CMP designation varies depending on where you take the exam, but it generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

9. Certified Revenue Management Professional (CRMP)

Certified Revenue Management Professional (CRMP) is a certification program that is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of revenue management. It is offered by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI).

The CRMP program consists of three levels: Certified Revenue Management Executive (CRME), Certified Revenue Management Analyst (CRMA), and Certified Revenue Management Specialist (CRMS). The CRME level requires applicants to demonstrate an understanding of strategic revenue management principles, concepts, and practices. The CRMA level requires applicants to demonstrate an understanding of tactical revenue management principles, concepts, and practices. The CRMS level requires applicants to demonstrate an understanding of operational revenue management principles, concepts, and practices.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the certification process. To get certified, candidates must first submit an application with their resume and proof of experience in the hospitality industry. Once accepted into the program, they will be required to take a series of online courses related to revenue management topics such as pricing strategies, forecasting demand, inventory control systems, yield optimization techniques, customer segmentation analysis, etc. After completing all courses successfully, they will need to pass a comprehensive exam in order to earn their certification.

The cost for obtaining the CRMP certification varies depending on which level you are pursuing. The cost for the CRME level is $1,895 USD; for the CRMA level it is $1,595 USD; and for the CRMS level it is $1,395 USD.

10. Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE)

Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) is a professional certification program developed by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the core competencies required to lead a successful food and beverage operation.

To obtain the CFBE, applicants must complete an application process that includes passing an exam as well as meeting certain educational and experience requirements. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as menu planning, cost control, operations management, customer service, food safety and sanitation, human resources management, and financial management.

The application process takes approximately two weeks to complete. Applicants must submit their applications online at least six weeks prior to the scheduled exam date. The fee for taking the exam is $295 for NRAEF members or $395 for non-members.

Successful completion of the CFBE requires passing scores on both the written and practical exams. Those who pass will receive a certificate from NRAEF recognizing them as a Certified Food and Beverage Executive. The certification is valid for three years before renewal is required.

11. Certified Tourism and Travel Professional (CTTP)

Certified Tourism and Travel Professional (CTTP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Travel Agents (IATA). This certification is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the travel industry. It is awarded to individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of travel and tourism.

The CTTP certification requires applicants to complete an examination that covers topics such as customer service, marketing, operations, finance, safety and security, legal issues, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in the travel industry or a related field.

In order to obtain the CTTP certification, applicants must pass the examination with a score of 70% or higher. Once certified, individuals are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or attending conferences or seminars related to travel and tourism.

The cost of obtaining the CTTP certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD for IATA members and $400-$600 USD for non-members.

Do You Really Need a Resort Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what type of resort you are managing and your own personal goals. If you are managing a large, well-established resort that has been around for many years, then a Resort Manager Certificate may not be necessary. However, if you are managing a new or emerging resort, or if you want to advance your career within the hospitality industry, then a Resort Manager Certificate can be beneficial.

A Resort Manager Certificate will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a resort and its staff. It will give you an understanding of the different aspects of running a successful hotel business, from budgeting and accounting to marketing and customer service. It will also provide insight into the legal aspects of running a resort, such as health and safety regulations, labor laws, and licensing requirements.

Having a Resort Manager Certificate can also help demonstrate your commitment to professional development in the hospitality industry. Employers in this field are often looking for people who show dedication to their job by obtaining additional qualifications or certifications related to their field. A Resort Manager Certificate is one way that you can set yourself apart from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions in the hospitality industry.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Resort Manager Certificate depends on your individual circumstances and career aspirations. While having one is not always necessary for success in this field, it can provide valuable knowledge and experience that will help you become an effective manager at any level of hospitality management.

Related: Resort Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Resort Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Resort Manager Certification?

A1. A Resort Manager Certification is a professional certification that provides specialized training and knowledge in the management of resorts, hotels, and other hospitality-related businesses. It helps to prepare individuals for successful careers in the hospitality industry by providing an understanding of operational management and customer service practices.

Q2. How do I get certified as a Resort Manager?

A2. To become certified as a Resort Manager, you will need to complete an approved certification program offered by an accredited institution or organization. Many universities offer courses in hotel and resort management which can provide the necessary training for certification. Additionally, some organizations provide online certification programs that can be completed from home or work.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Resort Manager?

A3. Becoming a Certified Resort Manager provides individuals with increased job opportunities within the hospitality industry, as well as recognition from employers that you have achieved a higher level of expertise in managing resorts, hotels, and other hospitality-related businesses. Additionally, certification may also lead to salary increases or promotions within your current position.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Resort Manager?

A4. The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Resort Manager will depend on the type of program you choose and how much time you are able to dedicate to completing your coursework and studying for exams. Generally speaking, most programs require between 6 months and 1 year to complete depending on the complexity of the curriculum requirements.

Q5. Is there any form of continuing education required after becoming certified as a Resort Manager?

A5: Yes, most organizations that offer certifications require continuing education credits (CECs) be earned every two years in order to maintain active status with their organization’s certification program(s). This requirement is designed to ensure that certified professionals stay up-to-date with trends in the industry and remain knowledgeable about new technologies and best practices in resort management operations