Director of Development, Europe Expansion (Luxury Hospitality) in London

Director of Development, Europe Expansion (Luxury Hospitality) in London

London Full-Time 121500 - 148500 £ / year (est.) On-site
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead luxury hotel development across Europe and secure high-value opportunities.
  • Company: Join Jumeirah Group, a global leader in luxury hospitality.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive healthcare, and growth opportunities.
  • Other info: Be part of a supportive team dedicated to innovation and excellence.
  • Why this job: Make a significant impact on luxury hospitality expansion and brand presence.
  • Qualifications: Extensive hospitality experience with strong negotiation and development skills.

The predicted salary is between 121500 - 148500 £ per year.

About Jumeirah

Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, operates an exceptional portfolio of 29 properties across 11 countries in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. In 1999, Jumeirah changed the face of luxury hospitality with the opening of the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and the brand is now renowned worldwide for its distinguished beachfront resorts, esteemed city hotels and exclusive residences.

About the Job

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Director - Development to join Jumeirah Group & Corporate (based in UK / Europe). The main duties and responsibilities of this role include:

  • Lead regional growth across Europe by securing high-value development opportunities that expand the hotel and residences portfolio, strengthen brand presence in new markets, and support Jumeirah’s Mission 2030 to double the portfolio.
  • Manage the full development lifecycle, including sourcing, preliminary assessments, feasibility coordination, design workshops, contract negotiations, internal governance processes, and handover to Technical Services - ensuring projects are progressed with discipline, accuracy, and strategic alignment.
  • Drive site identification and evaluation through feasibility studies, financial modelling, market research, and due diligence to select opportunities that match the company’s vision and accelerate international expansion.
  • Build and maintain strong partnerships by negotiating with owners, developers, and family businesses, working closely with legal, feasibility, brand, operations and finance teams to shape agreements that enable sustainable and scalable growth.
  • Lead and support a high-performing regional team by providing direction, clear communication, and strategic insight to senior leadership, while representing the brand externally at industry events and conferences.
  • Oversee full development lifecycles - planning, budgeting, scheduling, execution, and quality control - while ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with brand and strategic priorities.

About You

The ideal candidate for this position will have the following experience and qualifications:

  • Extensive experience in the hospitality industry, with a strong track record in hotel development in Europe.
  • Proven ability to identify, evaluate, and execute high-value development opportunities.
  • Strong negotiation capabilities with owners, developers, and stakeholders, backed by a well-established industry network across Europe.
  • Strong experience negotiating HMAs and Branded Residences Agreements.
  • Ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder development processes with precision and speed.

About the Benefits

At Jumeirah, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace where colleagues feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow. Our benefits package reflects this commitment by combining rewarding financial incentives, comprehensive healthcare, and opportunities for professional development.

Director of Development, Europe Expansion (Luxury Hospitality) in London employer: Jumeirah

Jumeirah Carlton Tower is an exceptional employer that offers a unique blend of luxury hospitality and a vibrant work culture in the heart of Knightsbridge. Employees benefit from competitive packages, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the chance to be part of a globally renowned brand known for its commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction. With stunning views, access to exclusive amenities, and a focus on crafting memorable experiences, working here is not just a job, but a rewarding career in a prestigious environment.

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Contact Details:

Jumeirah Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Development, Europe Expansion (Luxury Hospitality) in London

✨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 Jumeirah. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

✨Reach Out Directly to Jumeirah

Don't be shy about reaching out to Jumeirah 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 Development, Europe Expansion (Luxury Hospitality) in London

Hotel Development
Negotiation Skills
Stakeholder Management
Feasibility Studies
Financial Modelling
Market Research
Project Management

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 Jumeirah 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 Jumeirah

✨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!