General Manager - Luxury Eco Lodge

Newly launched luxury lodge group with focus on sustainability. Pipeline of projects in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Costa Rica. An experiential brand and hospitality management company offering land owners and investors a one-stop solution to develop eco-friendly lodging, with minimal impact on the environment. Headquartered in Dubai.

Require a General Manager to manage pre-opening and opening of their new 25 key eco lodge in the UNESCO World Heritage site in Al-Ahsa Oasis in KSA. Opening 1st quarter 2024. The project is being developed on a working date farm, in the middle of the second-largest natural Oasis in the world. The Lodge’s experiential concept is centred around two main anchors: agriculture and wellness. With companies’ sustainability values at the core, we are embedding the local culture in creating another unique eco-lodge.

The role would be best suited for an individual who has experience operating a lodge, resort or boutique hotel in a challenging environment, and who must have the expertise and capabilities to develop the concept and the destination.

RESPONSIBILITIES PRE-OPENING

1. Establish a timeline for pre-opening activities and ensure all tasks are completed on time.
2. Develop a budget for pre-opening activities and ensure that all expenses stay within the budget.
3. Develop, implement, and manage company operating policies and procedures.
4. Hire and manage pre-opening staff, including selecting, training, and evaluating personnel.
5. Oversee construction and handover of the hotel, ensuring that all specifications are met according to the Lodge brand standards.
6. Develop and manage the Lodge’s pre-opening marketing efforts.
7. Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers for the Lodge operations, order supplies and stock amenities.
8. Secure necessary licenses and permits for the Lodge operations.
9. Arrange for inspections by local and state authorities.
10. Ensure that appropriate safety and security measures are in place.
11. Prepare the Lodge for opening day.

DAILY OPERATIONS

1. Ensure the Lodge operates and maintains company sustainability standards at all times.
2. Establish and maintain high-quality standards and ensure customer satisfaction.
3. Ensure all departmental operations manuals are prepared and updated annually.
4. Develop marketing, sales and communication strategies aimed at developing the occupancy rate and turnover of the company.
5. Prepare a yearly marketing plan for the Lodge in cooperation with the Sales & Marketing department, including competitor analysis and a revision of National and global trends.
6. Maintain an active relationship with the Lodge PR manager/company to drive campaigns to be financially successful.
7. Attend and actively contribute to all relevant staff meetings and Lodge training.
8. Monitor and control staffing levels to ensure profitability and quality of service.
9. Harmoniously and ethically manage human resources (organization, training, management) and maintain good relations with local authorities, service providers & suppliers.
10. Prepare/consolidate the yearly budget for the Lodge in cooperation with the Finance Department.
11. Prepare daily financial management of the operation and monthly reporting according to the company’s criteria (meet the financial objectives regarding turnover, costs, and achieve profitability objectives).
12. Monitor customer feedback and take corrective action as needed.
13. Implement and monitor preventive maintenance plans, facilitate general maintenance and maintain high-quality standards.
14. Maintain excellent relations with the local community and compliance with all local regulations.

Requirements

1. Minimum 5 years of management experience in a remote boutique hotel/resort or Safari/outdoor Lodge.
2. A higher education degree in Hotel Management, Hospitality Business or 3 year related hospitality diploma. Administration or a relevant field is an advantage.
3. An energetic, proactive individual with experience in the sustainable concept of providing a personal and life-changing guest experience.
4. Experience in managing a safari lodge or boutique property and a genuine interest in the outdoors and nature.
5. High standards of service excellence and a passion for the industry.
6. Exceptional Food and Beverage knowledge and a creator of unique guest experiences.
7. Strong financial capabilities.
8. Fluent in English. Arabic language (spoken) is a major advantage.
9. A clear understanding of fundamental labour law and disciplinary procedures.
10. A developmental approach to staff.
11. Diligence and self-motivation to meet deadlines.

Benefits

1. $10,000.00 per month tax-free
2. Company housing
3. Access to a lodge vehicle for your personal use
4. Comprehensive medical insurance
5. Annual flight (economy)
6. Complimentary meals on duty
7. 30 days annual vacation plus public holidays

Required start date Sept/Oct 2023.