The Product Manager will be at the forefront of the hotel’s technological transformation and innovation strategy. This role emphasizes hands-on management of both product development and the integration of emerging technologies to enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and drive business growth. The Product Manager will lead the Information Systems (IS) team, ensuring the smooth functioning of all IT-related operations while directly managing the lifecycle of innovative projects that maintain the hotel’s competitive edge. A key responsibility will be spearheading the development of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) products, with the ultimate goal of taking these solutions to market.
This role has significant room for growth, with the ambition for the Product Manager to eventually take full ownership of the SaaS products lifecycle—from ideation and development to market leadership. It is ideal for a practical, entrepreneurial professional who enjoys a fast-paced environment, thrives on developing tangible solutions, and is passionate about leveraging technology to create new business opportunities. The Product Manager will work closely with the General Manager and department heads, focusing on implementing technologies that elevate the hotel’s standing in the smart hospitality space.
Key Responsibilities:
Product Management & Development:
– Lead the end-to-end development of hospitality-focused SaaS products, from conceptualization to market launch, ensuring alignment with guest and operational needs.
– Manage product roadmaps and prioritize features based on business impact, customer feedback, and market trends.
– Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate the hotel’s strategic objectives into product deliverables that improve guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
– Oversee and actively participate in product testing, iteration, and improvement processes.
– Grow into full ownership of the SaaS products’ lifecycle, taking leadership over product vision, development, and market expansion.
Information Systems & Operational Support:
– Oversee the daily operations of the IS department, ensuring the smooth running of networks, hardware, software, and IT support services.
– Ensure the security and integrity of hotel data and IT infrastructure, including implementing robust cybersecurity measures.
– Maintain and optimize operational systems such as the Property Management System (PMS), CRM, and housekeeping management tools.
– Work directly with vendors and internal teams to integrate new technology systems, ensuring seamless transitions and functionality.
Innovation & Digital Transformation:
– Identify and implement emerging technologies, such as mobile apps, smart rooms, and digital check-ins, to enhance the guest experience and operational performance.
– Lead hotel-wide digital transformation projects, focusing on contactless services, energy management, and sustainability-driven initiatives.
– Stay ahead of industry trends to ensure the hotel remains at the cutting edge of smart hospitality.
Strategic Planning & Execution:
– Collaborate with department heads and external partners to assess technological needs and tailor solutions to meet specific operational goals.
– Manage the budget for IT and product development initiatives, ensuring cost-effective investments that drive long-term growth.
– Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations such as GDPR and PCI DSS
Team Leadership & Development:
– Lead and mentor the IS team, fostering a culture of innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
– Guide the team through preventive and corrective maintenance activities, ensuring minimal disruption to hotel operations.
– Manage the inventory of IT-related equipment, licenses, and contracts, ensuring proper documentation and renewals.
Requirements:
– Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (MBA is a plus).
– 5+ years of experience in product management or IT leadership roles. Candidates from outside the hospitality industry are welcome, provided they have a deep understanding of customer experience and service-oriented technology solutions.
– Strong technical knowledge of PMS, CRM platforms, network architecture, and cybersecurity.
– Proven experience in managing the development and successful launch of SaaS products.
– Hands-on approach to problem-solving, with the ability to balance technical expertise and product development.
– Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for driving innovation and finding new business opportunities through technology.
– Knowledge of Generative AI, Agentic AI/AO is highly preferred, as these will be key in driving future innovation at the hotel.
Preferred Skills:
– Experience with cloud-based solutions, AI, automation, IoT, or robotics in an operational setting.
– Familiarity with government grants and tech development initiatives, such as those offered by STB.
– Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to budget and deadlines.