POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Manager, Openings & Transitions (Operations) manages hotel transitions across Europe and the Middle East, including Managed to Franchise conversions, Deflags, and Franchise Operator Changes. The role ensures transitions are executed efficiently, compliantly, and in alignment with Marriott’s operational and brand standards.
In addition, this role supports Select and Premium brand conversion and new build openings, contributing to unit growth and ensuring compliance with Brand Standards and company initiatives.
This position requires strong project management, analytical thinking, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment. The role builds strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders and provides both on-site and remote support to ensure successful transitions and openings.
CORE WORK ACTIVITIES
Openings & Transitions Management
1. Lead and manage all hotel transition types, including Managed to Franchise, Deflags, and Franchise Operator Changes, ensuring smooth handover and operational continuity
2. Authorize hotel openings on behalf of Marriott International and manage the Authority to Open process, including preparation, follow-up, and verification
3. Develop and execute project plans, including scope, objectives, timelines, deliverables, and resource allocation
4. Monitor pre-opening status and communicate progress with stakeholders
5. Partner with internal teams to assess and agree pre-opening support requirements
6. Conduct Authority to Open visits and provide on-site support during conversion periods
7. Support all aspects of brand growth, including design, orientation, timelines, and opening authorization
8. Lead operational calls and provide guidance to hotel teams throughout the opening process
9. Ensure compliance with Brand Standards across product, training, guest service, and opening readiness
10. Analyze performance reports and support improvements in opening hotel performance
11. Participate in kick-off meetings and Executive Orientation sessions
12. Host regular calls with hotel teams to track progress and ensure timely execution of pre-opening tasks
13. Coordinate opening timelines, including first sell dates and official opening dates
14. Ensure opening and conversion targets are achieved and positive survey results are delivered
15. Monitor critical path completion and support effective handovers within 45 days of opening
Account Management & Stakeholder Engagement
16. Act as a liaison between hotel ownership, franchisees, and Marriott stakeholders
17. Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, franchisees, General Managers, and hotel teams
18. Provide guidance on brand standards, policies, and operational expectations
19. Support Executive Orientation for new owners and franchisees
20. Strengthen partnerships to drive compliance and long-term brand growth
21. Represent the Lodging Product Organisation in meetings and task force initiatives
Administration & Compliance
22. Maintain and update documentation and systems related to hotel openings and brand processes
23. Identify training needs and act as liaison between hotel teams, owners, and franchisees
24. Support the rollout of brand directives, strategies, and annual updates
25. Communicate updates to brand standards and Quality Assurance programs
26. Support project work as assigned by leadership
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Technical & Functional Skills
27. Strong negotiation and issue resolution skills
28. Excellent relationship management capabilities
29. Working knowledge of Marriott systems and general hotel systems (. PMS, email platforms)
30. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
31. Understanding of brand standards, pricing, yield management, and Quality Assurance processes
32. Strong analytical capability with the ability to interpret operational and customer data
Professional Skills
33. Strong communication and presentation skills
34. Ability to present ideas clearly and in a structured way
35. Ability to influence and manage stakeholders across multiple levels
36. Strong listening skills and ability to resolve issues collaboratively
37. Ability to lead change and manage upwards effectively
38. Demonstrated ability to support development, training, and mentoring
CANDIDATE PROFILE
39. Experience in hotel operations, ideally in Operations Manager or Full-Service roles
40. Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
41. Ability to travel approximately 50% of the time
Right to Work
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.
WHY JOIN MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL?
Marriott International has been recognized as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For in Europe 2025 by Great Place to Work.
This is a reflection of our people-first culture, commitment to wellbeing, and collaborative workplace. This accolade joins a growing list of regional honors, reinforcing our dedication to creating an exceptional environment where associates thrive.
At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.