The Pre-Opening General Manager (GM) is responsible for the successful launch and operational setup of a new property. This includes overseeing all pre-opening activities, ensuring brand standards are met, recruiting and training key personnel, and ensuring a seamless transition from pre-opening to fully operational status. The GM will drive strategic planning, budgeting, and operational execution across multiple departments, including Revenue, OTA, HR, FB, MEP, Finance, Marketing, and Operations. This role involves setting up one property before moving on to the next, working closely alongside corporate team Heads of Departments (HODs) to ensure alignment and success.
Key Responsibilities Pre-Opening Phase
- Develop and execute the pre-opening plan, including critical path timelines, budgets, and staffing requirements.
- Oversee construction progress, liaising with contractors, architects, and designers to ensure timely completion.
- Set up operational SOPs and brand standards in alignment with company policies.
- Coordinate with corporate leadership on marketing, sales, and branding strategies.
- Lead the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding of key team members across all departments.
- Conduct feasibility studies, competitor analysis, and market positioning strategies.
- Ensure compliance with all legal, health, and safety regulations required for opening.
- Oversee procurement and vendor management for FFE (Furniture, Fixtures Equipment) and OSE (Operating Supplies Equipment).
- Develop and implement pre-opening training programs to ensure service excellence from day one.
- Manage pre-opening budgets, cost controls, and financial forecasting to ensure a profitable launch.
- Collaborate closely with corporate team HODs to ensure strategic alignment and operational efficiency.
Department-Specific Responsibilities
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Revenue OTA Management:
Develop revenue strategies, optimize pricing models, and manage OTA relationships to maximize bookings and profitability. -
HR Recruitment:
Oversee staffing plans, implement HR policies, and ensure a smooth onboarding and training process. -
FB Team:
Set up kitchen and bar operations, recruit chefs and service staff, and establish food quality and service standards. -
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing):
Ensure all technical and engineering systems are properly installed and operational before opening. -
Finance:
Create financial projections, manage pre-opening budgets, and implement cost control measures. -
Marketing Branding:
Develop and execute marketing campaigns, social media strategies, and promotional plans to drive initial business growth. -
Operations:
Establish front office, housekeeping, and guest service protocols for smooth day-to-day functioning.
Post-Opening Transition to Next Property
- Lead and manage the overall hotel operations, ensuring guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Develop strategies to achieve revenue and profitability targets while maintaining brand reputation.
- Build a strong organizational culture focused on guest service excellence and employee engagement.
- Implement marketing and promotional strategies to drive occupancy and revenue.
- Maintain high levels of operational standards, focusing on quality, safety, and guest experience.
- Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess business performance.
- Oversee financial reporting, cost control, and compliance with budgetary guidelines.
- Prepare for a structured handover to the permanent management team before moving on to the next property.
Qualifications Skills - Proven experience as a General Manager in a pre-opening hospitality environment.
- Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask and problem-solve.
- In-depth knowledge of hotel operations, finance, marketing, and human resources.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to develop and execute strategic business plans across multiple departments.
- Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
- Experience in hiring, training, and leading high-performing teams.
- Hands-on, results-driven, and guest-focused approach to hospitality management.
- Ability to adapt to fast-paced, dynamic environments and meet deadlines.
- Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
