London
United Kingdom
We are supporting a leading hospitality group in the appointment of a Director of Development, a newly created role designed to accelerate the company’s expansion strategy across key European markets. Reporting to the Director of Development and Acquisitions, this position is central to identifying, assessing, and executing growth opportunities—primarily through management agreements, but also including leases, franchises, and select investment opportunities.
The role encompasses end-to-end project oversight: from market research and feasibility analysis to partner negotiations, financial modelling, and final deal execution. The Director will liaise with internal stakeholders across technical services, feasibility, and senior management, while also cultivating a strong external network of owners, developers, consultants, and brokers.
This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially astute development leader who combines analytical rigour with strong relationship-building skills and has a passion for hospitality and real estate expansion.
Your Profile
- You are a commercially driven, independent professional with a strong background in hotel real estate development.
- You bring at least 5 years of relevant experience in development roles at hotel operating companies or consultancies (e.g., CBRE, JLL, Marriott, Accor, Hilton).
- You are confident managing deal flow, conducting feasibility analysis, and closing agreements.
- You enjoy a high level of autonomy, are proactive in sourcing and structuring deals, and are comfortable navigating complex negotiations.
- You value integrity, professionalism, and long-term relationship building.
Your Tasks
- Identify and evaluate new development opportunities aligned with brand strategy and market priorities.
- Conduct feasibility analysis, prepare financial projections, and assess risks and opportunities for each project.
- Manage deal documentation, including LOIs, Heads of Terms, and internal approval papers.
- Lead negotiations with owners, investors, and consultants through to deal close.
- Monitor project milestones post-agreement, supporting handover to operational teams.
- Maintain regular reporting to internal stakeholders and contribute to the broader development strategy.
Qualifications
- Degree in Hospitality, Real Estate, Finance, or a related field (Postgraduate preferred).
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in hotel development, advisory, or investment roles.
- Demonstrated ability to close HMA, lease, or franchise deals in the hospitality sector.
- Strong financial modelling and analytical skills; comfortable running feasibility and investment appraisals.
- Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills; able to interact confidently with C-level executives, owners, and investors.
- Fluent in English; additional languages a plus.
- Willingness to travel regularly within Europe.
Does this position sound like the ideal next step for your career? Then we look forward to receiving your application – simply click on the “Apply for this job” button and send us your CV. We will get back to you shortly.
If you would like to find out more about this position in advance, please contact Phil Levin directly on plevin@LHC-international.com
This position doesn’t quite fit your profile yet? Then let us talk about your goals in a confidential meeting – together we will find the right challenge for you.