Senior Manager Transitions, Openings & Transitiions (FTC, 12 months)

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 Marriotts 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

• Lead and manage all hotel transition types including Managed to Franchise Deflags and Franchise Operator Changes ensuring smooth handover and operational continuity
• Authorize hotel openings on behalf of Marriott International and manage the Authority to Open process including preparation follow-up and verification
• Develop and execute project plans including scope objectives timelines deliverables and resource allocation
• Monitor pre-opening status and communicate progress with stakeholders
• Partner with internal teams to assess and agree pre-opening support requirements
• Conduct Authority to Open visits and provide on-site support during conversion periods
• Support all aspects of brand growth including design orientation timelines and opening authorization
• Lead operational calls and provide guidance to hotel teams throughout the opening process
• Ensure compliance with Brand Standards across product training guest service and opening readiness
• Analyze performance reports and support improvements in opening hotel performance
• Participate in kick-off meetings and Executive Orientation sessions
• Host regular calls with hotel teams to track progress and ensure timely execution of pre-opening tasks
• Coordinate opening timelines including first sell dates and official opening dates
• Ensure opening and conversion targets are achieved and positive survey results are delivered
• Monitor critical path completion and support effective handovers within 45 days of opening

Account Management & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a liaison between hotel ownership franchisees and Marriott stakeholders
• Build and maintain strong relationships with owners franchisees General Managers and hotel teams
• Provide guidance on brand standards policies and operational expectations
• Support Executive Orientation for new owners and franchisees
• Strengthen partnerships to drive compliance and long-term brand growth
• Represent the Lodging Product Organisation in meetings and task force initiatives

Administration & Compliance

• Maintain and update documentation and systems related to hotel openings and brand processes
• Identify training needs and act as liaison between hotel teams owners and franchisees
• Support the rollout of brand directives strategies and annual updates
• Communicate updates to brand standards and Quality Assurance programs
• Support project work as assigned by leadership

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Technical & Functional Skills

• Strong negotiation and issue resolution skills
• Excellent relationship management capabilities
• Working knowledge of Marriott systems and general hotel systems (e.g. PMS email platforms)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Understanding of brand standards pricing yield management and Quality Assurance processes
• Strong analytical capability with the ability to interpret operational and customer data

Professional Skills

• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Ability to present ideas clearly and in a structured way
• Ability to influence and manage stakeholders across multiple levels
• Strong listening skills and ability to resolve issues collaboratively
• Ability to lead change and manage upwards effectively
• Demonstrated ability to support development training and mentoring

CANDIDATE PROFILE

• Experience in hotel operations ideally in Operations Manager or Full-Service roles
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
• 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 Fortunes 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 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.