Chief Engineer in London

We’re looking for an experienced and hands‑on Chief Engineer to lead our hotel’s maintenance operations and help ensure a safe, comfortable, and well‑maintained environment for our guests. In this role, you’ll oversee all aspects of the hotel’s facilities, ensuring guest rooms, public areas, and back‑of‑house spaces are maintained to the highest standards. You’ll lead and support a small maintenance team while working closely with external contractors to keep everything running smoothly. We’re seeking a proactive leader with strong technical expertise, attention to detail, and a passion for maintaining high standards.

The stage is set for something different. We don’t run conventional hotels; we build places with character and intent. What began as a small UK aparthotel portfolio has grown into a European collection recognised for design and atmosphere - and we’re now entering a new chapter. As we redefine the brand and evolve our identity, we’re focused on creating spaces that feel compelling, contemporary, and truly distinctive. Locke leads with bold expression; Cove by Locke refines that same spirit into a quieter, more streamlined approach. Guests come to rest, work, or escape. Comfort is a given - great beds, hot showers, genuine service. But we aim to create moments that feel memorable and a little unexpected, bringing back the sense of mood hospitality often lost. This is our backdrop. We’re on an exciting journey step on stage and play your part.

Manage day‑to‑day maintenance operations across the hotel property.

• Ensure all building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire safety, lifts, and mechanical systems) are maintained and fully operational.
• Conduct regular inspections of guest rooms, public areas, and back‑of‑house facilities.
• Plan and manage preventative maintenance schedules.
• Respond promptly to maintenance issues and emergency repairs.
• Supervise, train, and motivate maintenance staff.
• Manage maintenance budgets, stock control, and ordering of supplies.
• Liaise with external contractors and service providers.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations and hotel brand standards.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and reports.

Naturally this is not intended as an exhaustive list of duties. Other duties as may be reasonably required will form part of this job description.

Strong technical knowledge of hotel maintenance systems.

• Excellent problem‑solving and fault‑finding skills.
• Leadership and team management ability.
• Good organisational and time‑management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle emergencies calmly.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
• Budget management and cost‑control awareness.
• High attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction.

Proven experience in a Chief Engineer or Senior Maintenance role, preferably within a hotel or property environment.

• Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in building or facilities maintenance.
• Relevant technical qualifications or trade background (electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or similar).
• Knowledge of health & safety regulations and compliance standards.
• Experience managing a team and working with contractors.

We’re here to rethink what a modern lifestyle hotel can be. That takes pace, creativity, and people who enjoy working with purpose. If you’re comfortable with change, motivated by ideas, and focused on crafting meaningful guest experiences, you’ll do well here. We value individuals who can hold a vision, appreciate atmosphere, and want their work to have impact. Skills can be taught. Mindset can’t. There’s no single template for success here - just the right approach and willingness to grow.