South Africa: Group Hotel Manager posted by OttoBauthentic

The Hotel Group Manager will be responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial management of the three properties. The role ensures that all establishments operate efficiently, maintain exceptional guest satisfaction, meet profitability goals, and adhere to brand standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Management

• Oversee daily operations across all three properties, ensuring smooth running of front office, housekeeping, food & beverage, and maintenance.
• Implement and monitor standard operating procedures (SOPs) for service excellence and consistency.
• Coordinate staff scheduling to optimize productivity and manage costs.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.

2. Financial & Business Performance

• Prepare and manage annual budgets, monthly forecasts, and financial reports for each property and the group as a whole.
• Monitor and improve occupancy rates, average daily rates (ADR), and revenue per available room (RevPAR).
• Control costs and identify opportunities to improve profitability.

3. Sales, Marketing & Guest Relations

• Develop and execute marketing and sales strategies, including online presence, partnerships, and promotions.
• Maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, travel agents, and event planners.
• Oversee guest experience standards, ensuring high ratings on booking platforms (e.g. Booking.com, TripAdvisor etc) and effective handling of complaints.

4. Human Resource Management

• Lead, motivate, and develop a multi-property team, fostering a culture of service excellence and accountability.
• Recruit, train, and evaluate staff across all locations.
• Implement staff incentive programmes and enforce company HR policies.

5. Strategic Growth & Projects

• Identify and implement new revenue streams (e.g. conferencing, events, catering).
• Drive capital improvement projects, renovations, and upgrades as needed.
• Analyse market trends and competitor activity to stay ahead in the regional hospitality market.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills across multi-site operations.
• Deep understanding of hotel operations, including front office, housekeeping, F&B, and maintenance.
• Financial acumen: budgeting, cost control, and P&L management.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to manage staff, suppliers, and guests.
• Proven ability to drive revenue growth and maintain high guest satisfaction.
• Competence with hotel property management systems (PMS), reservations platforms, and Microsoft Office.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field preferential.
• Minimum 57 years of senior hotel management experience, preferably in multi-property or group operations.
• Track record of increasing occupancy and profitability.
• Knowledge of KZN hospitality market and local labour regulations advantageous.