General Manager

Are you a visionary leader ready to helm one of Chicago's most prestigious addresses?

We're looking for a dynamic and results-oriented General Manager to elevate our guest experience, drive operational excellence, and solidify our position as a leader in Chicago hospitality.

This isn't just a job; it's the opportunity to be the driving force behind an unparalleled guest experience, uphold legendary service standards, and shape the future of a landmark property. If you possess a proven track record in luxury hotel leadership, unparalleled financial acumen, and the charisma to inspire a world-class team, this is the job for you!

Position Summary

The General Manager (GM) is responsible for the overall strategic and operational leadership of the hotel, ensuring financial performance, exceptional guest experiences, operational efficiency, and team engagement. This role ensures operations align with annual business plans and comply with company policies, procedures, and brand standards.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Operations

• Direct and oversee all hotel functions, including operations, guest services, housekeeping, maintenance, and food & beverage.
• Ensure alignment with the annual operating budget, marketing strategy, capital plan, and staffing strategy.
• Lead cross-functional teams to drive business performance and guest satisfaction.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvement and lead change initiatives.

Financial Management

• Develop, implement, and manage annual budgets and monthly forecasts.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance; ensure profitability and cost controls.
• Lead monthly financial reviews; evaluate results and implement corrective actions as needed.

Management & Operational Excellence

• Daily Rate Strategy: Oversee daily pricing decisions to ensure alignment with market trends, demand forecasts, and revenue goals.
• Competitive Rate Shopping: Conduct regular competitive set rate analyses to maintain strategic pricing decisions and market alignment.
• Inventory Control: Manage room availability, rate restrictions, and distribution channels to maximize occupancy and revenue.
• Yield Management: Leverage data-driven yield strategies to optimize ADR and RevPAR based on market demand, pacing, and group displacement.
• Top-of-Market Positioning: Monitor STR and performance benchmarks to ensure the hotel remains a market leader in key KPIs.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Revenue teams to align pricing, promotions, and commercial strategy.

Team Leadership & Development

• Foster a high-performance culture through hands-on leadership and effective communication.
• Recruit, develop, and retain top talent. Conduct regular performance evaluations and succession planning.
• Champion a positive workplace culture focused on teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Guest Experience & Brand Standards

• Lead by example to promote a guest-first culture throughout the property.
• Ensure service standards are consistently met or exceeded across all departments.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement action plans for continuous improvement.

Sales & Revenue Optimization

• Collaborate with the sales and marketing team to execute the annual marketing plan.
• Oversee sales activity and performance; support strategic account engagement and yield management.
• Evaluate market trends and adjust positioning and strategies to drive occupancy and revenue.

Facility & Property Oversight

• Ensure the hotel is well-maintained and compliant with safety, cleanliness, and brand standards.
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs and conduct regular property inspections.

Community & Stakeholder Relations

• Represent the hotel within the local community and with industry partners.
• Promote a positive brand presence and develop community outreach initiatives.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure audits, safety, and security procedures are in place.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly supervises:

• Director of Operations
• Director of Finance
• Director of Sales & Marketing
• Human Resources Administrator
• Revenue Manager

Indirectly oversees all hotel staff and is responsible for leadership activities including hiring, onboarding, performance management, employee relations, and conflict resolution.

Qualifications

Knowledge & Experience

• Advanced understanding of hotel operations including finance, sales, food & beverage, maintenance, and guest services.
• Proven track record in revenue management, budgeting, and business planning.
• Minimum 5 years in hotel senior leadership (GM, AGM, or Director of Operations).
• Post-secondary education in hospitality management or a related field is preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and interpersonal communication skills.
• Financial acumen with ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.
• Ability to drive results while maintaining team morale and service excellence.
• Adept at multitasking and managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Language & Communication

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prepare business reports and conduct professional presentations.

Mathematical & Analytical Abilities

• Proficient in financial calculations, statistical analysis, and forecasting.
• Ability to interpret financial documents and business metrics.

Problem-Solving & Judgment

• Strong decision-making skills with the ability to address complex operational issues.
• Able to apply sound judgment and implement solutions effectively and efficiently.

Working Conditions

• This role requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as needed to support hotel operations.
• Physical ability to perform routine inspections and assist with tasks as necessary, including lifting or bending.