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Director, Design DACH (Mainstream/Upscale)

18 Months FTC

About Us

IHG Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s leading hotel companies with around 350,000 colleagues working across more than 100 countries to deliver true hospitality for good. Our diverse portfolio of differentiated brands is well known and loved by millions of consumers around the world.

We genuinely care for our entire IHG Hotels & Resorts family. All our colleagues are valued, and their wellbeing matters to us. We provide the support our colleagues need to succeed and recognise them for their hard work. Our diverse global community values different perspectives and cultures.

With our exciting growth strategy across Europe there has never been a more exciting time to become part of our Design team. Whilst predominantly working on the Midscale portfolio, this role will give exposure to all our Brands.

In this role you will provide dedicated architectural and design support to drive the delivery of design excellence and brand defining hotels with a focus on appropriate operating efficiencies, return on investment for our owners, and growth/renovation in our portfolio.

Fluency in German & English is a pre-requisite to the role.

Your day to day

The role involves collaborating with the regional development team to evaluate the viability of projects for management or franchising under an IHG brand. This includes partnering with Engineering and Interior Design teams to devise innovative design solutions and strategies that align with the brand's vision, ensuring any project challenges are addressed effectively and creatively.

A strategic collaboration with the Senior/Regional Design Director to align design initiatives with owner investment objectives, brand vision, and project standards. This position requires a deep understanding of brand strategy and the ability to effectively communicate and present design concepts at crucial stages of the project lifecycle. The key accountability is to ensure that each design decision supports the overarching goals and meets the established criteria for success.

Brand Execution: Spearheading the Property Improvement Plan (PIP) process for both new acquisitions and renewals, conducting thorough on-site assessments, and overseeing the implementation of PIP strategies. A key responsibility is to guarantee that all properties consistently uphold the highest quality of work and adhere to brand standards, thereby safeguarding the brand's reputation and image.

New Hotel Development – Manage the process of reviewing potential hotel projects in line with IHG Brand Standards and design guidelines including concept & detailed design, documentation, and inspections, as well as the pre-opening inspections.

Great Hotels Guest Love - Provides support to owners as per the Technical Services Agreement throughout the project lifespan from inception through to handover to IHG operating teams. Lead and manage workflow as required to ensure projects progress on a timely basis. Communicate key decisions including cost impact, resource, dateline and brand compliance to internal & external stakeholder.

IHG and Team Engagement - Works closely with Interior Design, Engineering & Brand Safety function on issues impacting new, conversion or renovation project plans and related costs to ensure objectives are achieved and consistency in standards.

Provide feedback to brand teams on trend and challenges to refine Brand Standards, design guides and shape future requirements.

What we need from you

Whilst we love experience, mindset is of equal importance. We’re looking for someone who is committed with a natural ability to operate effectively in a fast moving, global environment.

A robust understanding and demonstrated experience in Master Planning, large-scale mixed-use development, and Interior Design of hotels, ensuring a comprehensive approach to design and development. A background in these areas will be considered a distinct advantage, reflecting a readiness to tackle complex challenges and drive innovative solutions.

Experience

Minimum 10 years expertise in international branded hotel design, construction, and project management.

A strong background in technical knowledge of architectural design, construction principles, and a thorough understanding of applicable laws and regulations is essential.

Skill in managing many projects at one time from conception to completion, ensuring all aspects meet or exceed industry standards, is crucial. This role requires a dynamic individual who can not only envision innovative design solutions but also effectively execute them to the highest quality.

Possess a robust background in property development and appraisal, demonstrating a proven track record of managing projects from inception to completion. Key accountabilities, developing detailed financial models, and overseeing the execution of development strategies to ensure optimal asset performance. This role requires a strategic thinker with exceptional analytical skills and a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Technical Skills and Knowledge

The ideal candidate will be culturally astute and team-focused, possessing exceptional skills in influencing and networking.

Proficiency in project management and AutoCAD is essential,

Should possess a strong understanding of FF&E specifications, be adept at, and have the ability to manage and track project expenditures to align with financial objectives.

What we offer

At IHG we give our colleagues greater flexibility and balance – working in a hybrid way, blending remote and office working. Although we thrive on collaborating in person, we expect that you’re likely to spend time working remotely. Every role is different, and colleagues work with their team and their leader to determine how and when they collaborate in person. We like to believe we offer a unique culture where you have room to be yourself.

We give our people everything they need to succeed. From a competitive salary that rewards all your hard work to a wide range of benefits designed to help you live your best work life – including impressive room discounts.

Our mission is to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams where we celebrate difference and encourage colleagues to bring their whole selves to work. IHG Hotels & Resorts provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. We promote a culture of trust, support, and acceptance. Always welcoming different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

IHG gives every member of the team the room they need to belong, grow, and make a difference in a collaborative environment. We know that to work well, we need to feel well – both inside and outside of work – and through our myWellbeing framework, we are committed to supporting wellbeing in your health, lifestyle, and workplace. 

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At IHG, we’ve made a promise. As one of the world’s leading hotel groups, we’re here to deliver True Hospitality for Good. Making our guests and colleagues feel welcome, cared for, recognised and respected – wherever they are in the world. Want to be part of the journey?

We need people like you to make a difference and create exceptional experiences every single day. Don’t just join a growing team of 370,000 colleagues across 100 countries. Let your passion shine. Innovate and collaborate around the world. Embrace your ambition.

Don't quite meet every single requirement, but still believe you'd be a great fit for the job? We'll never know unless you hit the 'Apply' button. Start your journey with us today.

At IHG Hotels & Resorts, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We firmly believe that all our colleagues deserve to be treated equally and have the same opportunities to develop and grow their skills within our business and provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and colleagues without regard to an individual's, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital or familial status, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.