General Manager - Hotel (HORECA)

Industry: Hospitality Group in MENA

Role Purpose:

The General Manager / Chief Operating Officer will lead the overall operations, strategy, and performance of a luxury hospitality portfolio, including hotels, resorts, and hospitality development projects. This role requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in luxury brands, guest experience excellence, and business transformation within the GCC market.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the full spectrum of hotel and resort operations, including rooms, F&B, spa, leisure, and guest services, ensuring consistent delivery of luxury standards.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve revenue, profitability, and brand growth objectives.
• Lead pre-opening and operational readiness for new hospitality projects and renovations.
• Drive guest experience excellence through service innovation, personalized experiences, and brand alignment.
• Manage budgeting, financial performance, and cost control measures while ensuring operational efficiency.
• Build and lead high-performing teams that reflect the culture and service ethos of luxury hospitality.
• Oversee relationships with owners, developers, and brand partners to ensure alignment of business goals and property standards.
• Implement sustainability, wellness, and digital transformation initiatives to enhance brand competitiveness.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations, brand standards, and company governance policies.
• Represent the company at industry events and act as brand ambassador for luxury positioning in the region.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 15–20 years of experience in the hospitality industry , with at least 7–10 years in senior leadership roles (GM/COO/Cluster GM) in luxury hotels or resorts.
• Proven experience in pre-opening and multi-property management within GCC countries (Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, or Kuwait).
• Demonstrated success in driving profitability, guest satisfaction, and operational excellence in 5-star or ultra-luxury environments.
• Strong understanding of GCC hospitality markets, cultural nuances, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluency in English is essential; Arabic or other languages is an advantage.

Competencies:

• Strategic and results-driven leadership
• Brand and guest experience orientation
• Financial acumen and commercial strategy
• People leadership and organizational development
• Innovation and adaptability
• Cultural intelligence and diplomacy