WE ARE HIRING – General Manager wanted

Hey SOLA mates,

As the construction of our hotel advances smoothly (details about our construction start can be

in a separate post), it is important to think about the next phases. In our previous blog post , we talked about our SOLA team and that we do the project alongside our regular work and projects , all while located 8000km away from Sri Lanka. Moreover, since initiating construction, we’ve come to realize the extensive preparations and tasks required for the anticipated opening of our hotel in December 2024.

As much as one of us want to fulfill the role of the onsite General Manager, bringing our project to life, the demands of our professional and personal commitments prevent us from being physically present on-site full-time. Handling a project of this scale remotely presents its own set of challenges.

Hence, we are actively seeking a General Manager who can embody the SOLA experience on the ground, serving as the primary point of contact in Ahangama, Sri Lanka. This individual will serve as our eyes and ears on-site, assuming full responsibility for the seamless operation of our hotel.

In our search for the right candidate, we prioritize someone trustworthy, fun to work with, capable of steering the project from inception, with a background in the hospitality industry. The General Manager will play a pivotal role, becoming an integral part of our dedicated team.

 


Who are we looking after

Our highest priority at this stage is to identify the ideal General Manager who seamlessly integrates into our existing set-up. Over the past sixteen months, we have navigated through the process of acquiring the right piece of land, establishing the necessary legal structure, and conceptualizing the foundation for the construction phase. As we transition into the next chapter of our SOLA adventures, now it’s time to add the first hire to the team.

Someone who embraces SOLA as if it were their own

SOLA was born from the vision of crafting a distinctive tropical hideaway alongside individuals we genuinely enjoy spending time with. This philosophy extends to our search for a General Manager as well. We aspire to collaborate with individuals who not only inspire but also bring their unique ideas to the table. Our ideal candidate is someone open to challenging the conventional, offering a blend of personal and professional appearance to both the team and guests. Above all, we seek a person who is fun to work with.

We know from personal experience the importance of being present on-site in Sri Lanka to ensure that our vision unfolds. Thus, we are specifically seeking a General Manager who resides in Sri Lanka or is prepared to relocate. And who hasn’t dreamed of 28 degrees throughout the year, endless surfing, and a vibrant atmosphere of good vibes? 🙂

While the grand opening of the hotel is planned for December, we ideally envision the general manager to start from May 2024 onward.

Job responsibilities

The role of the General Manager encompasses a range of responsibilities divided into two phases: pre-opening and post-opening.

Before the hotel’s grand opening, you will take on role, leading or supporting various tasks. This pre-opening phase requires a dynamic and hands-on approach to ensure a successful launch, including:

    • Hiring an exceptional team
    • Define and implement operational procedures, creating operation manuals for each department.
    • Collaborate with the interior team to craft a unique culinary experience, and hire a skilled chef to lead the restaurant.
    • Develop and execute marketing strategies for the business, with our full support
    • Provide project supervision during on-site construction, working closely with architects and a dedicated project manager.
    • Assist the interior design team in adding the final touches to the hotel, including sourcing and managing suppliers for both the hotel and restaurant.
    • Establish the hotel’s booking system and explore additional selling channels.
    • Define a comprehensive PR and communication strategy
    • Recruit and train teams for the rooms division, restaurant, cleaning, and gardening.
    • Contribute to the creation, design, and definition of a concept store.
    • Support in attending local meetings

Following the hotel’s opening, your role as General Manager will entail a diverse set of responsibilities:

    • Overseeing daily hotel operations
    • Motivate and manage the team to ensure a cohesive and high-performing workforce.
    • Ensuring top-notch customer service
    • Budget management and financial reporting
    • Maintain and enforce high standards of quality and hygiene throughout the hotel
    • Implement innovative marketing strategies to drive business.
    • Ensure a high standard for the hotel’s reputation and profitability.

The list is not exhaustive, and your role will be dynamic, contributing to the overall success and growth of our establishment.

What we offer

At our hotel, you’ll experience a beautiful work environment surrounded by the beauty of our 12000sqm jungle land. We value dedication, and in return, we offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. As part of our family-like atmosphere, the general manager will be supported by a collaborative and international team of entrepreneurs, providing the foundation for not just a job but an amazing experience.

To apply or obtain further details, please reach out to us via email at hello@solasrilanka.com. Share with us why you believe you are the perfect candidate. A brief video introduction would be highly appreciated, allowing us to get to know you better.

See the full job listing here

Join us in creating a memorable SOLA-hotel experience

Dustin & The SOLA Team