Divisional Director Of Engineering And Maintenance

In this role you will lead the Engineering & Maintenance division for 13 hotels in Southern Europe, driving operational excellence, safety, and guest satisfaction. You will oversee maintenance programs, renovations, and CapEx projects, while ensuring heritage properties are respected and sustainability goals are met. You will coach the engineering teams, partner with Design & Construction, and engage external contractors to deliver high-quality, reliable systems. This is a strategic, hands-on position shaping engineering standards across a luxury hotel portfolio with a strong focus on energy efficiency and regulatory compliance.

• Lead engineering aspects of major renovations and capital expenditure projects from concept to completion
• Collaborate with Design & Construction to meet engineering specifications, budgets, and timelines; oversee commissioning
• Provide leadership to hotel Directors of Engineering and their teams to foster safety and proactive maintenance
• Conduct regular property visits and audits to assess performance and regulatory compliance
• Develop and manage divisional budgets (CapEx and OpEx) with cost controls and financial accountability
• Drive energy optimization initiatives and integrate sustainable technologies to reduce environmental impact
• Establish and maintain vendor relationships; negotiate contracts for services, supplies, and equipment
• Support lifecycle management and technical guidance during renovations and capital projects
• Mentor and develop the Engineering & Maintenance team to ensure continuous improvement
• Ensure adherence to Belmond standards and regulatory requirements across all properties
• Minimum 10 years of experience in a similar leadership role
• Bachelor in Electrical/Mechanical/Civil Engineering (Master's preferred)
• Proven track record managing large-scale new construction and renovation projects
• Deep knowledge of hotel engineering installations (electric, heating, cooling, plumbing, HVAC, lifts) and fire protection systems
• Strong understanding of regulatory codes and standards; energy efficiency expertise
• Fluency in English; excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience in luxury hotel operations and sustainable practices (LEED/BREEAM/EarthCheck)
• Ability to travel extensively and work flexible hours including weekends/public holidays
• Advanced knowledge of project management and property management processes
• Experience with heritage property renovations (desirable)
• Proficient with maintenance software and building management systems (BMS/EMS)
• strong leadership and people management
• excellent communication and stakeholder management
• problem-solving and proactive decision-making
• MEP design and maintenance
• energy efficiency technologies (boilers, heat pumps, solar, geothermal)
• HVAC systems and zone controls

Divisional Director of Engineering and Maintenance pescara, abruzzo, it