Technical Services and Projects Manager

Technical Services – UHM is responsible for overseeing all technical, engineering, and project-related functions across UHM-managed hotels and developments. This role ensures that all properties meet UHM’s brand standards, operational requirements, safety regulations, and long-term asset value objectives.Technical Services incharge plays a critical role in both operating hotels and new developments, acting as the technical custodian from project planning and pre-opening through post-opening operations. This position works closely with Operations, Development, Owners, Consultants and Contractors to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and fully aligned with UHM’s operational expectations.This role will play a key and hands-on role in the renovation of the Fairmont Palm, Voco JLT, and Creekside Hotel projects, supporting design review, technical approvals, site execution, and successful handover to operations.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & Asset ManagementProvide overall technical leadership across all UHM-managed hotels, ensuring optimal performance of building systems, plant, equipment and infrastructureEstablish and enforce UHM engineering standards, preventive maintenance programs and lifecycle asset management plansEnsure all hotels operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with local regulations, fire life safety requirements and standardsDevelopment & Project SupportPlay a key role in the technical planning and execution of the renovation works at the Fairmont Palm, Voco JLT, and Creekside Hotel projects, ensuring alignment with UHM’s operational, brand, and commercial objectivesSupport project development from concept and design stages through construction, pre-opening, and handoverSupport the development team through desktop reviews, property reports, site visits, design reviews, mock up room visits, kick off meetings, progress meetings, project sign off meetingsReview, comment and approve architectural, MEP, ELV, kitchen, laundry and FF&E designs with a strong focus on hotel operations, efficiency, and guest experienceCoordinate with owners, consultants, project managers and contractors to ensure timely execution and issue resolutionConduct technical due diligence for new projects and acquisitions, identifying risks, CAPEX requirements, and operational implicationsPre-Opening & Hotel Launch SupportLead technical readiness for pre-opening hotels, ensuring all systems are tested, commissioned and operationally soundEnsure smooth handover from construction to operations, including documentation, warranties, spare parts, and training of hotel engineering teamsSupport snagging, defect resolution, and post-opening technical stabilizationSupport any adaptations of brand design guidelines to project-specific requirementsAssist where required in the selection and management of project consultants (architects, interior designers, engineers), including scope definition and fee negotiationsOperational Excellence & Performance ManagementOversee engineering performance across the hotel portfolio, ensuring minimal downtime, energy efficiency, and optimal guest comfortReview and guide annual maintenance plans, CAPEX budgets, and major refurbishment projectsSupport hotels during audits, brand inspections, and regulatory compliance reviewsLead technical crisis management, including major system failures, safety incidents, and emergency response coordinationReview and support CAPEX planning, prioritization, and execution across all hotelsEnsure cost-effective technical solutions without compromising quality, safety, or brand standardsMonitor project costs, contractor performance, and budget adherenceProvide technical input into long-term asset enhancement and sustainability strategiesSustainability & Energy ManagementDrive sustainability initiatives including energy optimization, water conservation, waste management, and ESG complianceImplement energy monitoring systems and efficiency programs to reduce operating costs and environmental impactSupport green building certifications and sustainability reporting where applicablePeople, Training & Capability BuildingSupport and mentor hotel Chief Engineers and engineering teams to build strong technical capabilitiesEstablish training standards, SOPs, and knowledge-sharing across the portfolioPromote a culture of safety, accountability and preventive maintenance excellenceStakeholder & Owner EngagementAct as the technical interface with hotel owners & hotel brands, providing transparency, technical guidance, and risk mitigation strategiesSupport owner & hotel brand meetings with clear technical insights on asset condition, CAPEX needs, and project progressBuild strong working relationships with hotel brands, consultants, suppliers, and service providersQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Architecture or Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil preferred)Minimum 10–15 years of experience in hospitality technical services, engineerin