Job Summary
? ?? ??????????? ??????????? is assisting a private coastal hospitality operation on Kenya's South Coast in sourcing an experienced ?????????? ????????. Our client operates two hospitality properties on Kenya's South Coast — an established coastal lodge run as a hotel, and a highly exclusive private island property directly adjacent to it, bookable only as a whole and currently in the planning and development phase with an anticipated opening within two to three years. The successful Operations Director will take executive leadership of both, overseeing ongoing hotel operations alongside the full development journey of the island property. This is a senior, hands-on leadership role for an experienced hospitality operator with strong project management capability. The Operations Director will act as director of the Kenyan business, holding full P&L responsibility and managing all operational, financial, legal and commercial aspects of both properties, reporting directly to the owner. This is not a conventional salaried role. The owner operates with a partnership mindset and a deeply held belief in sharing success — and is looking for a like-minded operator who wants to be more than an employee. A substantial profit share forms a significant part of the remuneration package, giving the right candidate a genuine stake in what they build and the opportunity to grow their own financial success alongside the business. If you are driven, entrepreneurial and want to be truly rewarded for what you achieve, this role was built for you. ??? ???????????????? Act as executive lead of the Kenyan business — taking full responsibility for all operations, finances, legal matters and development across both properties, and reporting directly to the owner. Drive the planning, development and construction of the exclusive island property from concept to opening, managing architects, contractors, consultants and all regulatory processes. Guide and oversee the lodge's General Manager in day-to-day hotel operations, maintaining accountability for guest experience and service standards — you will not be alone on the ground. Hold full P&L responsibility: manage budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, accounting, bookkeeping and financial reporting for both properties. Recruit; build and lead all property staff; oversee performance management, training and team development across both operations. Develop and execute sales, marketing and revenue strategies; grow the lodge's commercial performance and establish the brand and commercial model for the island property. Manage procurement, supplier and contractor relationships, service contracts and all legal and regulatory compliance under Kenyan law. Prepare business plans, project budgets and BOQs for owner approval; act as authorised signatory on operational accounts within approved limits and submit regular progress and management reports. ???????????? Proven experience as an Operations Director, General Manager or COO in hospitality, with specific East African or Kenyan experience. Background in lodge, boutique hotel or coastal resort operations; experience managing both hotel-style and exclusive/private properties a strong plus. Solid track record leading property development or construction projects in the region, including contractor management, BOQs and regulatory processes. Strong financial acumen: P&L ownership, budgeting, financial reporting and cash flow management. Skilled people leader with a track record of building and developing hospitality teams. Commercial mindset with the ability to develop and execute sales and marketing strategies. Entrepreneurial and self-sufficient — comfortable operating with significant autonomy and reporting to a remote owner. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Eligibility to work in Kenya. ??????- To be discussed. A substantial profit share forms part of the package. ?????: As soon as possible. ??????? ????- Although we appreciate all applications received, we will only reply to those candidates who have the background and experience required. Thank you.