Director, Pre-Opening

Pan Pacific Hotels Group is a young and dynamic company comprising three well-established and trusted brands; Pan Pacific®, PARKROYAL COLLECTION® and PARKROYAL®. We have aggressive expansion plans and as such, we are looking for motivated and energetic people to be part of our growing team. If you have a passion for the industry and are driven by the desire to create Service Excellence Culture, Pan Pacific Hotels Group can offer you great opportunities as we continue to strengthen our global footprint. Based at our Corporate Office in Singapore, we are looking for a passionate and energetic individual to join us as Director, Pre-opening.

Job Responsibilities:

• Reporting to Vice President, Pre-Opening & Operations Support, the Director of Pre-Opening is tasked to project lead the Corporate Office Pre-Opening & Operations Support team.
• He/she is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Hotel’s and Serviced Suite’s pre-opening process, ensuring the property is fully prepared for the launch. This role involves coordinating with various departments, managing budgets, developing operational plans and implementing Hotel and Serviced Suites standards to achieve a successful opening.
• He/She is responsible for overseeing the strategic transition of Hotels & Serviced Suites from one brand to another. This involves managing the rebranding process, ensuring compliance with brand standards, and aligning operational practises with the new brand’s requirements.

Primary Responsibilities:

Project Management: Pre-Opening, De-Flagging, and Conversion

• Lead and manage the Hotel and Serviced Suites team, establish clear goals, processes, and timelines.
• Coordinate with project managers and consultants to ensure project timelines and quality standards are adhered to.
• Review back of house space planning, in line with approved manning guide and supports effective & efficient operational flow for Pre-Opening and Conversion.
• Review guests’ facilities; Events, Restaurants & Bars and Wellness & Recreation space planning, including the coordination of food & beverage concept for Pre-Opening & Conversion.
• Prepare uniform brief and work with property General Managers, internal stakeholders and uniform designers for Pre-Opening & Conversion, for final approval.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless transitions with minimal disruption to Hotel & Serviced Suites operations for De-Flagging & Conversion projects.

Operational Planning

• Create and implement a detailed timeline that outlines all tasks and milestones leading up to the opening day for all departments.
• Develop and oversee a comprehensive pre-opening budget that includes projected costs for staffing, training, marketing and operational set up.
• Develop and/review standard operating procedures to ensure efficient Hotel & Serviced Suites operations.
• Ensure all staff are trained on procedures, systems and standards prior to opening.
• Identify and resolve all operational issues or challenges before opening.
• Work closely with department heads to ensure that operational practices are restructured and aligned with the new brand’s expectations.
• Monitor guest satisfaction and service quality during the transition phase and implement improvements as necessary.

Recruitment & Training

• Develop a staffing plan that identifies the number and types of positions needed.
• Oversee the recruitment process of all key Hotel & Serviced Suites Directors and Managers, ensuring the selection of qualified talents.
• Develop & implement comprehensive training programs for staff to ensure service quality and operational readiness for pre-opening and conversion projects.
• Supervise pre-opening training, including the coordination of all simulation activities.
• Foster a positive working environment and culture aligned with PPHG’s Vision and Values for pre-opening and conversion projects.

Marketing & Sales Preparation

• Propose and/or review room and bed type mix together with Sales & Marketing.
• Collaborate with the Sales & Marketing team to develop pre-opening marketing strategies and campaigns.
• Build relationships with key clients, stakeholders and local community partners.
• Prepare promotional materials and coordinate events leading to the opening.
• Ensure the roll out of brand signature and loyalty programs.
• Assess & analyse current Hotel & Serviced Suites operations, cultures, and customer offerings to identify gaps and opportunities for alignment with the new brand during Conversion projects.
• Collaborate with brand representatives to implement brand standards & operational guidelines.

Quality Control

• Conduct regular on-site inspections and assessments to ensure readiness of guest rooms, facilities and services.
• Monitor the implementation of safety and cleanliness standards as per PPHG’s policies and local regulations.
• Participate in and support Global Procurement and recommend long-term cost effectiveness whilst maintaining quality.
• Review par stock levels based on corporate standards and operational projections.
• Six months post opening review on Pre-Opening Budget & HOE utilization.

Stakeholder Communication

• Serve as the primary liaison between ownership, management and any external stakeholders during the pre-opening, de-flagging or conversion phase.
• Provide regular updates, challenges & milestones to key stakeholders.
• Schedule regular meetings and updates with all stakeholders, including owners, management, PPHG and consultants, to discuss progress, challenges and next steps.
• Establish clear communication channels amongst all stakeholders to ensure information flows smoothly.
• Implement systems for gathering feedback to address concerns and suggestions. This could include surveys or open forums for discussion.

Other Responsibilities:

• Supports the Mission, Purpose and Values of the Pan Pacific Hotels Group.
• Complies with all relevant Workplace Safety & Health practices and maintains a safe workplace for all associates.
• Adheres to grooming and hygiene standards set by the Hotel.
• Exercises responsible behaviour at all times to uphold the image and reputation of the Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Hotel and department.
• Ensures that the Hotel’s properties and facilities are protected and are kept in good working condition. Reports any loss or damage to the Hotel’s properties and facilities promptly and appropriately.
• Carries out any other reasonable duties and responsibilities as assigned.

The Person:

• Minimum three years’ experience in pre-opening of four- & five-star hotels and serviced apartments at the corporate level.
• Proven track record of successfully opening Hotels and Serviced Suites.
• Possess a Diploma in Hotel Management or any other business discipline.
• Has knowledge of current hospitality trends and market conditions.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and lead a diverse team.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting and forecasting.
• Proficient in hotel management software and MS Office Suite.
• Will be of advantage if the candidate is fluent in Mandarin and is proficient in Autocad.
• Flexible with working long hours when required, including evenings and weekends, and involves travel to various locations as needed.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group is an equal opportunity employer.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.