At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations for a diverse portfolio of hotels, ensuring exceptional guest experiences.
- Company: Join IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy travel perks, recharge days, competitive bonuses, and professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for global career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of hospitality while driving operational excellence and guest satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in hotel operations and strong financial acumen required.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
Whether you're starting out or stepping up, you'll find support, purpose and the chance to grow through every challenge at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
We're seeking a Director of Operations, Managed & Leased Hotels to join our UK & Ireland leadership team. In this role, you'll lead operational performance across a diverse portfolio of managed and leased hotels spanning Luxury & Lifestyle and Premium, Essentials & Suites brands. You'll work closely with hotel leaders, ownership groups and senior stakeholders to deliver exceptional guest experiences, sustainable profitability and support the future growth of the portfolio.
In this role, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership across a growing hotel estate, helping hotels perform at their best while building strong relationships with owners, colleagues and stakeholders. You'll drive operational excellence, champion high-performance teams and ensure consistent delivery of IHG's brand and guest experience standards.
Key responsibilities
- Lead operational performance across the UK & Ireland managed and leased hotel portfolio.
- Drive guest experience, quality, loyalty and reputation performance across all hotels.
- Deliver sustainable profitability through strong financial and commercial performance.
- Build trusted relationships with owners, asset managers and key external stakeholders.
- Lead performance reviews and governance routines, ensuring timely action and support where needed.
- Partner with hotel leadership teams to develop high-performing, engaged and accountable teams.
- Drive continuous improvement, operational efficiency and transformation initiatives.
- Provide strategic oversight for hotel openings, transitions and portfolio growth opportunities.
- Collaborate with Commercial, Finance, Revenue, HR and Brand teams to achieve business objectives.
- Act as a senior ambassador for IHG across industry, owner and stakeholder forums.
You'll play a key role in shaping the performance and future direction of IHG's managed and leased business across the UK & Ireland, driving results for owners, guests, colleagues and the wider organisation.
What we're looking for
- Significant senior leadership experience in hotel operations, ideally across multi-site, regional or portfolio environments.
- Strong operational expertise across hotel performance, guest experience, commercial delivery and quality standards.
- Experience working with multiple ownership groups and managing complex stakeholder relationships.
- Proven ability to lead large, geographically dispersed teams through influence and collaboration.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, profitability and business performance.
- Experience driving operational change, transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Proven ability to drive operational excellence, guest satisfaction and financial performance across a complex hotel portfolio.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship management skills.
- Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership.
What we offer
We provide a wide range of benefits designed to help you live your best work life. Including:
- Travel benefits including discounted room rates and food & beverage
- Recharge Days
- Volunteering Days
- Competitive annual bonus opportunity
- Pension and wellbeing support
- Professional development and leadership learning opportunities
- AA global career with one of the world's leading hospitality companies
Director of Operations - UK & Ireland employer: IHG
At IHG, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture at Kimpton Charlotte Square in the heart of Edinburgh. As a Room Attendant, you will not only enjoy competitive pay and generous discounts but also benefit from extensive training opportunities that foster personal and professional growth, all while contributing to creating unforgettable guest experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations - UK & Ireland
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like IHG. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to IHG
Don't be shy about reaching out to IHG directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations - UK & Ireland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about IHG and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at IHG
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
