Chief Executive Officer (Hospitality)

Our client is a leading group of companies, who are engaging a Chief Executive Officer (Hospitality) to oversee the delivery of a luxury hospitality project from installation through to full operational readiness and then leading the full operation. This role is critical in bridging the gap between development, technical delivery, and the successful opening and functioning of a high-end hospitality asset. You will act on behalf of the owner.

The Role

• Coordinate logistics and site readiness for the project
• Oversee all installation, utility connections, interior fit-outs, and final finishes.
• Ensure compliance with design specifications, brand standards, and local building regulations.
• Act as the primary liaison between the ownership group and the third-party hospitality operator.
• Lead the transition from a construction-ready asset to a full operation.
• Oversee the setup of systems including IT infrastructure, security, and MEP integration.
• Ensure all operational areas are fit-for-purpose and meet brand and service standards.
• Manage all aspects of pre-opening, including procurement timelines, setup of service contracts, and branding collateral.
• Coordinate recruitment and onboarding of hotel staff 
• Work with the operator to align staffing structure, SOPs, training, and service delivery.
• Oversee soft opening, operational trials, and grand opening preparations.
• Establish asset management reporting structure, set up financial KPIs, service audits, and maintenance programs.
• Monitor operator performance against contract terms, guest satisfaction metrics, and operational benchmarks.
• Act as the owner’s watchdog to protect long-term asset value and guest experience integrity.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Hospitality Management, Asset Development, Business, or related field.
• 7+ years of senior-level experience in luxury development, pre-opening, or operations.
• Proven track record in transitioning projects from construction to operational readiness.
• Experience working with third-party operators and/or brand affiliations
• Ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and complex stakeholder environments
• Project management skills with high attention to detail.
• Strong negotiation, leadership, and communication skills.
• Owner-oriented mindset with the ability to balance cost, quality, and brand experience.

Job Reference: JP282