Chief Engineer (Pre-Opening & Operations) – 5-Star Luxury Hotel Project

Job Title

About the Role

Chief Engineer

Key Strategic & Operational Responsibilities

• **Pre-Opening Leadership:**
• Oversee the final stages of construction handover, commissioning of all physical plants, and the implementation of initial preventative maintenance schedules.
• **Asset Management:**
• Manage all engineering and maintenance operations, ensuring the structural integrity, safety, and security of the building, grounds, and physical plant.
• **Systems Optimization:**
• Direct the operation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, electrical, and life-safety systems to maximize operational efficiency and energy conservation.
• **Budget & Capex:**
• Exercise strict financial stewardship by managing the engineering departmental budget, controlling expenses, and directing capital expenditure (CapEx) projects.
• **Team Architecture:**
• Hire, train, and lead a high-performing engineering and maintenance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and proactive problem-solving.
• **Vendor & Compliance Management:**
• Liaise with local authorities and global contractors to ensure full compliance with health, safety, fire, and building regulations.

The Executive Profile

• **Experience:**
• A minimum of 5 to 7 years serving as a Chief Engineer or Director of Engineering within a 5-star luxury hospitality environment.
• **Project Phase Expertise:**
• Verified track record of successfully navigating at least one complete 5-star hotel pre-opening and transitioning it into a highly profitable, smooth-running operation.
• **Technical Acumen:**
• Advanced degree or equivalent certifications in Mechanical, Electrical, or Building Services Engineering.
• Comprehensive knowledge of modern BMS (Building Management Systems) and luxury hospitality infrastructure.
• **Leadership Style:**
• A hands-on, inspirational leader capable of managing diverse teams under the high-pressure environment of a pre-opening phase.
• **Mobility:**
• Must be highly adaptable and fully willing to relocate to Zambia on a
• single-status
• contract.
• Previous expatriate experience in emerging markets or Sub-Saharan Africa is highly advantageous.

The Offer