Commercial Director- Hotel Development
Location: London (with potential international travel)
Salary: £70,000 - £90,000 + Benefits + Bonus
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
My client, a leading international hotel development company with a prestigious portfolio spanning luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and major hospitality brands across six continents. Due to their continued expansion and ambitious development pipeline, they are seeking an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor/Cost Manager to join their dynamic team.
The Role
As the Senior Quantity Surveyor for my client, you will be responsible for managing all cost aspects of their hotel development and refurbishment projects from inception to completion. You will work closely with their project management teams, architects, contractors, and hotel operators to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget while maintaining the highest quality standards expected in the hospitality sector.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Construction Phase:
* Prepare detailed cost estimates and feasibility studies for new hotel developments and major refurbishments
* Conduct cost planning and value engineering exercises specific to hospitality projects
* Review and analyze tender submissions from contractors and specialist suppliers
* Prepare comprehensive tender documentation and contract packages
Construction Phase:
* Monitor and control project costs throughout construction phases
* Assess and negotiate variations and change orders
* Conduct regular cost reporting and forecasting to senior management
* Manage interim valuations and payment certifications
* Coordinate with FF&E specialists and hotel operators on fit-out specifications
Post-Construction:
* Prepare final accounts and cost reconciliations
* Conduct post-project cost analysis and lessons learned sessions
* Maintain cost databases for future benchmarking
Essential Requirements
Professional Qualifications:
* Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, or related field
* Minimum 8 years' experience in quantity surveying/cost management
* Minimum 5 years' specific experience in hospitality/hotel projects
Technical Experience:
* Proven track record in hotel new builds, extensions, and major refurbishments
* Deep understanding of hospitality-specific elements including kitchens, spa facilities, F&B outlets, guest room fit-outs, and back-of-house areas
* Experience with FF&E procurement and installation processes
* Knowledge of international building codes and hospitality industry standards
* Proficiency in cost management software (CostX, WinQS, or similar)
* Strong understanding of NEC, JCT, and FIDIC contract forms
Industry Knowledge:
* Understanding of hotel operational requirements and how they impact construction costs
* Experience working with major hotel brands and their technical standards
* Knowledge of specialised hospitality systems (PMS integration, in-room technology, commercial kitchen equipment)
* Familiarity with sustainable building practices and LEED/BREEAM certification processes
Desirable Experience
* International project experience, particularly in emerging markets
* Experience with branded hotel requirements (Marriott, Hilton, IHG, etc.)
* Background in resort developments including villas, spas, and recreational facilities
* Knowledge of local planning and building regulations in multiple jurisdictions
* Experience with design-build and EPCM contract delivery methods
What My Client Offers
Compensation & Benefits:
* Competitive salary with performance-related bonus
* Comprehensive health and dental insurance
* Pension scheme with company matching
* Professional development budget for CPD and training
* Opportunity for international secondments
Career Development:
* Work on prestigious hotel projects worldwide
* Exposure to cutting-edge hospitality design and technology
* Mentorship from industry-leading professionals
* Clear progression pathway to Associate Director level
* Support for further professional qualifications
Work Environment:
* Collaborative, international team environment
* Flexible working arrangements
* Travel opportunities to exciting global destinations
* Access to company hotels for accommodation during project visits