At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting hotel development projects across the U.K. and Ireland.
- Company: Join a dynamic global hotel brand with a fun, collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of hospitality.
- Other info: Work in a close-knit team and enjoy a vibrant office atmosphere.
- Why this job: Be part of a pivotal growth phase and make a real impact in the hospitality industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in sourcing and negotiating hotel agreements; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are on the search for a passionate, dynamic and charismatic individual to join us at our London Central Support as Development Director – U.K. & Ireland. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking for a new challenge in a hands‑on role. You’ll also need to live and breathe our values; be Creative by being playful and inspiring, be Genuine by always being true to who we are, and be Smart by delivering results in a clever and effective way.
About the role
We are looking for an individual to lead the sourcing, evaluation, and execution of future YOTEL projects across the U.K. and Ireland as we continue to expand the brand’s presence in key strategic markets. The Development Director – U.K. & Ireland will be responsible for identifying new opportunities, building and maintaining key owner and investor relationships, and negotiating and executing both Hotel Management and Franchise Agreements across all brands within the group.
More specifically, responsibilities will include the following (not exhaustive list):
- Lead the sourcing, evaluation, negotiation, and execution of hotel management and franchise agreements across the UK & Ireland for YOTEL, YOTELPAD, and YOTELAIR.
- Identify and originate new development opportunities, including ground‑up developments, mixed‑use schemes, conversions, and other strategic opportunities.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, investors, developers, lenders, and commercial real estate brokers to source opportunities and manage transaction processes.
- Prepare and oversee proposals, market analyses, letters of intent, pitch presentations, and internal approval materials to support new business opportunities.
- Work closely with internal stakeholders across Development, Legal, Finance, Design & Construction, and Operations to progress opportunities from origination through execution.
- Support the Company’s broader global growth strategy and maintain strong working relationships with YOTEL’s investors, executives, managers, and staff, including London HQ.
- Undertake such other duties and responsibilities as may reasonably be required from time to time in support of the business and its growth objectives.
Skills required to be successful in the role:
- Proven ability to source, evaluate, negotiate and close hospitality transactions and/or hotel management contracts and/or franchise agreements.
- Entrepreneurial individual with ability to work in global, fast‑paced collaborative environment.
- Excellent interpersonal, organization and communication skills.
- Experience managing a team.
- Experience with franchise agreements a plus.
- Computer skills, including specific knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Advanced use of Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Desire to join a global, fast‑growing hotel brand and ability to work independently.
- Frequent travel will be required for this role.
- Ability to have fun and work in a close‑knit office setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Director - U.K. & Ireland
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Show Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with someone from YOTEL or during interviews, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share why you’re excited about the role and how you align with their values. A genuine connection can make all the difference.
✨Prepare for the Spotlight
Before any interview, do your homework! Know the company inside out, understand their projects, and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their growth. Confidence comes from being well-prepared.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the YOTEL family!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Director - U.K. & Ireland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity to join us and contribute to our growth in the U.K. and Ireland.
Be Creative and Genuine:Remember to reflect our values in your application. Be playful and inspiring in your writing, while also being true to who you are. Authenticity goes a long way in making a memorable impression!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your experience in sourcing, evaluating, and negotiating hospitality transactions. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so don’t hold back on sharing your successes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting role. Let’s make it happen!
How to prepare for a job interview at Yotel
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into YOTEL's values and recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their expansion plans in the U.K. and Ireland, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows genuine interest and preparation.
✨Showcase Your Charisma
As a Development Director, being dynamic and charismatic is key. Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Use examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to build relationships and negotiate effectively.
✨Be Creative and Genuine
YOTEL values creativity and authenticity. Think of innovative ways to present your ideas during the interview. Share personal anecdotes that reflect your genuine self and how you’ve successfully navigated challenges in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
Since this role involves collaboration with various internal stakeholders, be ready to discuss your experience in team settings. Highlight how you've worked with different departments to achieve common goals, showcasing your organisational and communication skills.
