Manager, Operations Watson House Complex, AUC President's Residence Watson House

Reports to: Executive Director, Office of the President

Purpose: The job holder is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a residential facility. He/she will ensure that the facility is well-maintained, safe, and secure for all residents. In addition, carry the responsibility for oversight and efficient operation of the Watson House Complex inclusive of Trustees House, Watson Hall and gardens. The job holder will work closely with the president’s office to co-ordinate events and dinners in Watson House, Watson Hall and gardens.

Responsibilities:

Residence Management

• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure the operations efficiency and the safety and well-being of all residents
• Interfaces with the president’s office with respect to the president’s calendar and required event arrangements in Watson House
• Interfaces with the president’s spouse on a weekly basis to plan each week’s events and daily requirements
• Manage the house operations scheduling needs and digital calendar in coordination with The American University in Cairo’s (AUC) offices and external parties as relevant
• Manage the calendar of the president’s spouse and coordinate personal family scheduling needs with various AUC formal obligations and functions to avoid conflicts
• Responsible for maintaining an accurate inventory of all AUC owned items in the complex
• Maintain accurate records of all facility operations, including maintenance logs, incident reports, and resident complaints
• Liaise with relevant offices the plans and timeline of special projects of Watson House spaces
• Inspect and identify areas in Watson House, Trustees House and Watson Hall that require
• maintenance and act as liaison with the maintenance and housing departments to report any malfunctions and ensure repairs
• Responsible for equipment maintenance regular schedule
• Responsible for procurement of required supplies for the complex with relevant offices at AUC
• Conducts regular building inspections checking for any fire safety hazards or violations and all systems related to fire prevention (centralized fire alarm panel, sprinkler system, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers)
• Deliver the professional greeting and settling down of Watson house guests to the highest standards
• Respond to resident requests and concerns in a timely and professional manner

Watson House Initiative

• Plan and coordinate all events and initiatives hosted by the spouse of the university president, including alumni and donor relations events, campus-sponsored events, and other events as needed
• Manage all logistics for events, including venue selection, catering, transportation, and accommodations for guests
• Purchase necessary supplies and equipment for events, such as decorations, audiovisual equipment, and food and beverages
• Work closely with the university offices to ensure that all events are properly scheduled and coordinated
• Coordinate with outside vendors as needed to ensure that events run smoothly
• Provide support to the spouse of the university president in preparing speeches and other communications
• Maintain a budget for events and ensure that all expenses are properly documented and approved
• Develop general event management policies and guidelines in Watson House

Watson House Staff

• Train, and supervise staff members, including household, maintenance workers and housekeeping staff and working hours and transportation after hours, as needed
• Monitor the house staff’s performance and development areas promoting achievements and identifying weaker areas for improvement, and arrange for external and internal training sessions in catering and food safety, as well as food tasting visits to restaurants
• Liaise with AUC Human Resources Office to recruit and train house staff and other related
• Organize daily tasks, timetables, rotas, leaves for house personnel
• Responsible for outsourcing and supervision of part time staff

Financial

• Manage the budget for the facility and ensure that all expenses are within budget
• Manages personal accounts for (personal groceries, outsourced cleaning and laundry) and for AUC incurred expenses to be submitted to the Office of the Controller
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements:

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in hospitality, communications, public relations, or a related field

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in event planning and logistics coordination
• Background in residential property management

Skills:

• Strong leadership and management skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Flexibility in performing the tasks of his subordinates in the occasions of their absence
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of safety, security and hygiene protocol
• Knowledge of house operations, different styles of formal and informal entertaining, protocol
• Good accounting skills
• Excellent English

Working Conditions:

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
• Good physical ability to carry out assigned tasks

This position is open until January 20, 2026

Placement is based on the candidate’s experience and skills. Only candidates who make it to the shortlist will be contacted.

"The American University in Cairo is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply."

“We thank all individuals who have expressed interest in working at The American University in Cairo.”