Openings & Transitions Manager (Operations) | FTC, 12 months

Description

Position Summary
The Manager Openings & Conversions (Operations) supports Select and Premium brand conversion and new build openings across Europe and the Middle East. This role drives Marriotts unit growth goals through high-quality conversion projects ensuring compliance with brand standards and seamless execution of programs and initiatives. The position also leads hotel transitionsincluding deflags Managed-to-Franchise changes and operator transitionswhile providing on-site and remote support to stakeholders to achieve successful openings.
The role requires agile project management strong analytical capability and the ability to make informed decisions in a fast-paced environment. Success depends on building effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders while ensuring each hotel opens on strategy and to standard.

Key Responsibilities

Openings & Transitions

• Authorize the opening of hotels on behalf of Marriott International and prepare follow up on and verify completion of the Authority to Open (ATO) letter.
• Manage multiple hotel opening and conversion projects simultaneously using the Critical Path online tool.
• Monitor pre-opening status and communicate progress with the Director Openings & Conversions (Operations) discipline leads and key stakeholders.
• Partner with the Director Openings & Transitions and Area Teams to determine required support levels and costs.
• Support brand equity and contribute to ongoing growth initiatives.
• Conduct ATO visits for opening hotels.
• Provide on-site support throughout the conversion period.
• Direct all facets of brand growth including design executive orientation timelines and opening authorization.
• Run Business Hours/Calls for operational needs of opening hotels.
• Support Franchisees and Hotel Teams in achieving brand standards for service product and operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with brand programs and initiatives across all openings.
• Oversee the complete conversion/opening process including product quality training guest service opening supplies and criteria compliance.
• Review measurement reports and support field teams in improving performance at opening hotels.
• Participate in Kick-off Meetings and Executive Orientation Meetings.
• Host regular calls with Franchisees/Hotel Teams to guide pre-opening tasks and timelines.
• Lead additional virtual or in-person calls with Owners Franchisees Hotel Teams and internal stakeholders as needed.
• Align and communicate first sell dates and opening dates with all relevant departments.
• Ensure Marriotts goals for hotel openings and conversions are achieved or exceeded.
• Achieve positive opening survey outcomes.
• Escalate concerns and updates to the Director Openings & Transitions.
• Manage hotel transitions (Managed-to-Franchise deflags operator changes).
• Ensure completion of Critical Path requirements prior to opening.
• Coordinate effective handovers to the Support Organization within 45 days of opening.

Account Management

• Participate in Executive Orientation for new owners and franchisees.
• Act as a liaison between hotel ownership brand and market teams.
• Build and maintain relationships with Owners Franchisees and Hotel Teams.
• Provide guidance on policy and brand standard interpretation.
• Strengthen adherence to standards and support brand growth through effective relationship management.
• Represent LPO in meetings and task force committees.

Administration

• Maintain and update all electronic documents and systems for CLS brand and franchise processes related to openings.
• Identify brand training needs and act as liaison between hotel teams owners and franchisees.
• Champion brand directives and educate stakeholders.
• Execute and communicate annual updates to brand standards and Quality Assurance.
• Handle project assignments from the Director and Lead Manager.

Other

• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• This position is office-based.
• This role is offered as a 12-month fixed-term assignment with potential for renewal or conversion to permanent based on performance and business needs.

Job-Specific Skills & Requirements

• Strong negotiation and issue resolution skills.
• Excellent relationship management skills with owners and stakeholders.
• Working knowledge of Marriott systems (e.g. PMS email).
• Proficiency with Microsoft applications and strong technical literacy.
• Strong understanding of brand standards across all Marriott brands.
• Knowledge of pricing yield management Quality Assurance and loyalty programs.
• Demonstrated analytical skills and ability to interpret complex operational data.
• Strong presentation and public speaking skills.
• Ability to mentor and support associate development.
• Ability to influence and drive change at multiple organizational levels.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective listening skills and ability to resolve issues constructively.
• Strong account management skills.

Candidate Profile

Required:

• Multiple Operations Manager and/or full-service hotel team experience preferred.
• Strong relationship-building skills.
• Ability to travel up to 60%.

Why Join Marriott International

At Marriott you will be part of a global organization committed to excellence collaboration and growth. We empower our teams celebrate diversity and provide opportunities to develop your career across a worldwide portfolio of brands.

Marriott International has been recognized as one of Fortunes 100 Best Companies to Work For in Europe 2025 by Great Place to Work. This 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.

Required Experience:

Manager