General Manager- Pre Opening Hotel

Over the past two decades, The First Group has forged a reputation as one of the hospitality industry’s leading innovators, providing groundbreaking investment opportunities to clients and partners, while delivering exceptional, memorable experiences to hotel and leisure guests. Our corporate ethos and unique vision for the future of hospitality is encapsulated in our fast-growing portfolio of award-winning hotels and residences, exciting F&B outlets and lifestyle venues, and delivered through our array of complementary third-party hotel and asset management services.

Core to our vision for the future of hospitality is The First Collection, our award-winning hotel brand that reflects the rich culture, innovative spirit, and unparalleled refinement for which Dubai is famous for. The First Collection’s urban lifestyle resorts, situated in prime locations across Dubai, are renowned for their unique blend of world-class hospitality and modern flair, as well as their cutting-edge guest facilities and services, which include exclusive access to the stunning Soluna Restaurants and Beach Club, located on the world-famous Palm Jumeirah.

Every hotel in our fast-growing portfolio reflects our ambition to capture the essence of urban living, blending it seamlessly with the tranquillity of a serene getaway. The First Collection echoes the city’s heartbeat, ensuring all our guests are made to feel a part of the magnificent tapestry of Dubai, the world’s most exciting metropolis.

We are seeking an experienced and visionary General Manager to lead the pre-opening and successful launch of a new hotel in Dubai. The GM will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, from property development and recruitment to strategic planning and service excellence. This role requires a strong leader with pre-opening experience in the luxury hospitality sector, with an in-depth understanding of Dubai’s market dynamics and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Pre-Opening Strategy and Planning

• Develop and implement a detailed pre-opening project plan, managing timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Coordinate with owners, architects, designers, and contractors to ensure the property is built and designed to brand specifications.
• Work closely with the marketing and sales teams to establish the hotel’s brand positioning and launch strategy.

2. Financial Management

• Prepare pre-opening budgets, including staffing, operational, and capital expenditures.
• Drive financial performance by setting and achieving revenue targets, cost controls, and profitability metrics.
• Monitor cash flow, manage financial risks, and ensure alignment with projected budgets.

3. Operations Management

• Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing team, fostering a positive culture and commitment to brand standards.
• Establish and monitor operating procedures, quality standards, and service protocols to ensure guest satisfaction.
• Implement and maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and compliance with all health and safety regulations.

4. Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management

• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to design strategies for maximizing room occupancy and event bookings.
• Work with revenue management to set competitive room rates and packages, optimizing revenue through strategic yield management.
• Build relationships with local businesses, tour operators, and industry stakeholders to drive traffic and brand awareness.

5. Guest Experience and Service Excellence

• Set the standard for luxury service, leading by example and instilling a guest-first culture throughout the team.
• Proactively address guest feedback and ensure prompt, professional resolutions to any complaints or issues.
• Regularly review guest satisfaction metrics and continuously improve service offerings.

6. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the hotel within the community, fostering positive relationships with local businesses, government officials, and media.
• Attend industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to build connections and promote the hotel’s brand.

• Experience: 10+ years in hotel management, with at least 3 years in a GM role; previous pre-opening experience is essential.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's preferred).
• Skills: Strong leadership, communication, financial acumen, and strategic thinking skills; fluency in English is required, with Arabic a plus.
• Competencies: Proven track record of achieving business goals, building and leading teams, and creating memorable guest experiences.
• Knowledge of Dubai Market: Comprehensive understanding of Dubai's luxury hospitality landscape, consumer preferences, and regulatory environment.