Ruttger’s hires HR, marketing executives

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge added a pair of seasoned executives to their management team ­– one to lead the human resources department and a second to spearhead marketing efforts, resort officials announced.

Paula Soderberg, Onamia, was hired earlier this year to be the resort’s new director of human resources, and Dave McMillan was hired this fall to be the resort’s new marketing manager.

McMillan, Aitkin, has nearly 20 years of experience in marketing communications, including six years in the advertising department at Grand Casino Mille Lacs where he was instrumental in developing the acclaimed “What’s Your Grand Casino Story?” ad campaign. He has spent the last ten years as a marketing strategist for marketing agencies specializing in Native American casinos. Before that he worked in media relations for minor league baseball teams and as a newspaper reporter.

“Ruttger’s is a resort built on the foundation of service. They strive to treat every guest like family,” McMillan said. “I am honored to join the Ruttger’s team and am extremely excited for the opportunity to tell the Ruttger’s story.”

McMillan will oversee all aspects of marketing, including branding, direct communication, social media, media buying and public relations.

“Not only does Dave have the experience but he understands the Ruttger’s brand and is passionate about helping guide us into the future,” said Chris Ruttger, president of Ruttger’s. “Ruttger’s is, at its core, a resort focused on treating every guest like family. I’m confident that Dave will grow our brand to emphasize this unique strength.”

Soderberg brings more than 25 years of experience to the job, most recently with the Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures in Onamia and NorthStar Access in Big Lake. She earned an AA in human resources management, a BA in business administration and is accredited as a senior professional in human resources with the Society for Human Resource Management.

Reported by:  Messagemedia.co/aitkin/news/business