Hotel Manager- Pre Opening

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.

Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Hotel Manager to join our leadership team for the pre-opening of the tallest hotel in the world, located in the iconic Dubai Marina. This role requires a hands-on leader who will oversee daily operations, ensuring the smooth running of the hotel while delivering exceptional guest experiences, fostering team engagement, and driving operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Opening Phase:

• Collaborate with the pre-opening team to develop and implement operational standards, processes, and systems across all departments.
• Oversee the recruitment, onboarding, and training of hotel staff to ensure all teams are aligned with the hotel's brand, service culture, and operational goals.
• Contribute to the development of the hotel’s operational strategy, including SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for all departments.
• Ensure all areas of the hotel are set up, fully functional, and ready for guest arrivals, including the Rooms Division, F&B, and public spaces.

Operational Management:

• Manage daily hotel operations across all departments, ensuring exceptional service delivery and operational excellence.
• Ensure that all departments are staffed appropriately and that workflows are optimized for efficiency and guest satisfaction.
• Maintain strong communication and collaboration across departments to ensure seamless hotel operations.
• Implement and uphold high standards of cleanliness, guest service, and safety across the property.

Guest Experience:

• Lead the team in providing a personalized and memorable guest experience, from arrival to departure.
• Actively engage with guests, addressing concerns and feedback to ensure the highest levels of satisfaction.
• Oversee the resolution of guest complaints and ensure all interactions reflect the hotel’s service culture and values.

Team Leadership:

• Lead, motivate, and develop hotel teams, ensuring alignment with the hotel’s objectives and standards.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork, engagement, and professional growth.
• Provide coaching and training opportunities to enhance staff performance and career development.

Financial and Administrative Responsibilities:

• Assist in managing the hotel’s budget, including forecasting, cost control, and revenue management.
• Ensure adherence to financial targets, operational budgets, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Analyze operational performance and identify areas for improvement, implementing corrective actions as necessary.

Sustainability and Innovation:

• Promote sustainability practices across hotel operations, focusing on reducing environmental impact and optimizing resource use.
• Identify and implement innovative strategies and technologies to enhance efficiency, guest satisfaction, and profitability.

Crisis Management:

• Oversee the development and execution of emergency procedures and protocols to ensure the safety of guests and team members.
• Ensure all team members are well-trained in crisis management and emergency response.

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in hotel management, with at least 5 years in leadership roles in large-scale or luxury properties.
• Proven experience in hotel pre-openings is highly preferred.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budget management, revenue, and cost control.
• A passion for delivering outstanding guest service and creating memorable experiences.
• Proficiency in hotel management systems and technology platforms (e.g., PMS, CRS).