SUMMARY:
A stylish 5-star urban hotel is looking for a strong ððð¡ðð¥ðð ð ðð¡ðððð¥
POSITION INFO:
We’re looking for a General Manager with character, intuition, and charisma — someone who has already mastered the art of big-brand luxury but now longs for something warmer and more soulful. A space where hospitality is not scripted, but lived. Where attention to detail isn’t about ticking boxes, but creating moments that matter. This boutique hotel and its award-winning fine dining restaurant in Cape Town offer just that: a place where you can lead a high-performing team, shape an unforgettable guest experience, and be part of a community that values heart as much as head.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic & Operational Leadership
- Develop and execute annual business plans for both the hotel and restaurant, ensuring alignment with the broader vision and goals.
- Align operational objectives with brand positioning, guest experience targets, and financial performance.
- Lead cross-functional coordination between hotel and restaurant operations.
- Maintain and promote the brand's reputation through site inspections, media hosting, and market engagement.
- Act as the key liaison between the support office and on-site operations, ensuring alignment of strategies and seamless communication.
Guest Experience, Innovation & Brand Standards
- Oversee the full guest journey from pre-arrival to post-departure, ensuring exceptional service across all touchpoints.
- Monitor feedback channels and personally manage key complaints, using insights for continuous improvement.
- Maintain brand-consistent design, ambiance, and experiential elements.
- Benchmark offerings against industry trends and competitors to ensure innovation and relevance.
- Take an active role in guest hosting to cultivate relationships and deliver highly personalized experiences.
Financial Management & Procurement
- Develop, manage, and report on budgets and forecasts at property level.
- Drive profitability by managing costs and overseeing the full P&L of both operations.
- Support procurement initiatives to secure favorable supplier agreements.
- Approve purchasing and capital expenditure in accordance with company policy.
Team Leadership, Succession & Culture
- Lead the recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of key team members across both hotel and restaurant.
- Conduct monthly departmental meetings and one-on-ones with direct reports.
- Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and accountability.
- Implement structured performance systems including KPIs, reviews, and succession planning.
- Provide operational support during critical vacancies to ensure business continuity.
- Drive staff development and identify talent for future leadership roles.
- Oversee cross-property training initiatives and external training coordination.
Sales, Marketing & Revenue Generation
- Partner with central sales and marketing teams to boost direct bookings and restaurant footfall.
- Support event sales, brand activations, and guest engagement strategies.
- Monitor and adjust pricing, packages, and promotions to maintain market competitiveness.
- Manage site inspections to ensure they reflect brand standards and professionalism.
Compliance, Community & Standards
- Ensure strict compliance with all labour, health and safety, and food safety legislation.
- Oversee cleanliness, maintenance, and hygiene across the entire property.
- Implement and audit SOPs and quality control systems across departments.
- Lead sustainability and risk management practices, including measures for local challenges like water shortages and load shedding.
Neighbourhood Engagement
- Cultivate partnerships that position the hotel and restaurant positively within the community.
- Represent the property in local forums, initiatives, and stakeholder groups.
- Build relationships with nearby businesses to enhance the broader area brand and guest offering.
- Champion initiatives that improve the appearance and environment of the surrounding district.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management or Business Administration
- 10–15 years’ experience in hospitality, with a minimum of 5 years in senior leadership roles
- Proven success in luxury boutique hotel and/or fine dining environments
- In-depth knowledge of Cape Town’s tourism and culinary landscape
- Proficiency with PMS, POS, and revenue management systems
- Valid driver’s license and flexibility to work weekends and non-standard hours
- Strategic thinker with strong operational capabilities
- Strong financial and commercial acumen
- Exceptional guest service mindset, particularly in luxury settings
- Strong leadership, motivation, and team development abilities
- Calm, solutions-oriented approach under pressure
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
- High emotional intelligence and stakeholder engagement skills
