General Manager – Hemingways Watamu

About the role

Hemingways Watamu, the original property of the Hemingways Collection, is a luxury coastal resort in Kenya's Watamu Marine National Park, recently refurbished. As General Manager, you report to the Group CEO and manage the hotel to maximise performance, profitability and return on investment while ensuring guest and team satisfaction. You act as a brand ambassador for Hemingways Collection and work with the Senior Executive team on strategy delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the hotel's management team (HODs) and overall targets, recruit and develop leaders, and set goals for direct reports
• Ensure compliance with laws and regulations, and with SLH brand standards and audit requirements
• Prepare and revise hotel budgets and forecasts, and keep monthly financial outlooks for Rooms, F&B, Admin and General on target
• Implement capital expenditure decisions with Senior Management approval and manage cash flow, assets and costs with the Group Financial Controller
• Take ownership of guest complaints and partner with the F&B department to maximise profitability
• Contribute to sales and marketing strategy and revenue meetings, monitor sales goals and build relationships with key clients
• Lead daily operations meetings, use guest feedback to drive improvement and foster employee engagement
• Review the Review Pro GRI report and market intelligence, assist in Hemingways Residences sales when required, and perform other duties as assigned

Required profile

• At least 5 years' successful track record as a General Manager in an upscale branded or independent full-service hotel
• Bachelor's degree required
• Strong operations background, with some sales experience preferred
• International experience in a coastal resort hotel preferred

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Excellent command of English
• Ability to plan, execute and meet deadlines

What we offer

• A competitive package in a beautiful setting
• Access to a team of senior leaders across the portfolio for knowledge sharing and support
• The chance to shape the experience of an African luxury brand and work with local communities and conservation groups