Pre-Opening Maintenance Manager - Hotels

Due to exciting expansion and a series of upcoming hotel openings, Criterion Hospitality is seeking a proactive and experienced Pre-Opening Maintenance Manager to join our growing team.

This is a unique opportunity to play a hands-on role in the successful launch of new hotel properties. You’ll be instrumental in setting up operational maintenance systems, ensuring readiness for opening, and laying the foundation for long-term building performance and guest satisfaction.

About the Role

As Pre-Opening Maintenance Manager , you will be responsible for overseeing all maintenance planning, installations, and systems commissioning across new hotel sites. From coordinating contractor activity and snagging to establishing preventive maintenance schedules and compliance procedures, you will ensure that each property opens to the highest operational standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead maintenance planning and execution across all pre-opening hotel projects
• Coordinate with construction, fit-out, and operational teams to ensure timely handover of building systems
• Oversee commissioning of M&E systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
• Conduct pre-opening inspections and manage snagging resolution
• Set up maintenance SOPs, preventive schedules, and asset registers
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and building regulations prior to opening
• Recruit, train, and manage on-site maintenance staff for each property
• Manage maintenance budgets and procurement of tools, equipment, and supplies
• Act as the key liaison between contractors, hotel GMs, and operations teams during the transition from construction to opening

What We’re Looking For

• Mechanical or electrical qualification; a degree in facilities management or related field is a plus
• Minimum 5 years' experience in maintenance or facilities management, ideally within pre-opening or multi-site environments
• Strong technical knowledge of building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, BMS)
• Proven experience managing contractors and commissioning projects
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• Strong communication and stakeholder coordination abilities
• A hands-on, solution-focused approach with high attention to detail