Chief operating officer

Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Luxury hospitality and world class resorts
PortugalHighly competitive executive package
Performance-related bonus
Healthcare for family*
Relocation support (where required)
Accommodation for initial six months
Long-term growth and equity-aligned incentives
The opportunity to shape and scale an exceptional luxury resort portfolio
*unfortunately support with schooling is unavailableWe're proud to be partnering with a luxury hospitality business that sets the benchmark for what truly world-class resort operations look like.This is a business defined by exceptional guest experiences, strong commercial discipline and a culture that empowers leaders to think and act like owners.Following sustained growth, increasing international recognition and ambitious plans for its next phase of expansion, the business is now seeking an outstanding Chief Operating Officer to lead operations in Portugal.This is a hands-on, visible leadership opportunity for a commercially astute operator who thrives in complex, multi-disciplinary luxury environments.You'll be a strategic thinker with deep operational credibility, someone who can translate vision into flawless execution, inspire large teams, and drive both top-line growth and bottom-line performance across the portfolio.If you are passionate about luxury hospitality, operational excellence and building high-performing cultures, this role will excite you.The opportunityAs COO, you will hold end-to-end responsibility for daily operations, working closely with the CEO, central and operational teams.You'll act as the critical bridge between strategy and delivery, ensuring brand standards are upheld, resources are optimised, and every guest experience reflects the quality and consistency expected of a leading luxury brand.With ambitious development and growth plans ahead, this role offers genuine influence, autonomy and the chance to leave a lasting operational legacy.Who this role is forThis role will suit a senior hospitality leader (COO, Operations Director, General Manager or equivalent) who brings the followingessentialrequirements:Proven executive-level experience within luxury hospitality or resort environments
Fluency in Portuguese and English
Experience living and working in Portugal and an understanding of the local market
Eligibility to work in Portugal
Deep understanding of multi-disciplinary, complex resort and hotel operations
Strong financial acumen and commercial decision-making capability
A track record of scaling operations and driving sustainable growth
Exceptional leadership presence, emotional intelligence and communication skills
Calm, confident decision-making in high-pressure environmentsYou'll be someone who balances strategic vision with operational detail - leading with clarity, authority and humanity.What you'll be accountable forOperational ExcellenceOversee all resort operations including Accommodation, Food & Beverage, Events, Housekeeping, Engineering and Guest Services
Ensure seamless, high-quality service delivery across all departments
Drive continuous improvement in operational processes, standards and efficiencyFinancial & Commercial PerformanceFull responsibility for operational budgets, cost control and profitability
Drive revenue growth, margin improvement and EBITDA performance
Analyse performance data, identify opportunities and take decisive actionStrategy & ExecutionTranslate the company's strategic vision into clear, actionable operational plans
Lead the implementation of new initiatives, concepts and systems
Support expansion, refurbishment and development projects where requiredLeadership & CultureBuild, lead and retain high-performing executive and operational teams
Foster a strong service-led culture aligned to luxury brand values
Develop succession plans, leadership capability and long-term talent pipelinesGuest Experience & Brand StandardsEnsure consistent, exceptional guest experiences across all touchpoints
Uphold brand positioning, service rituals and quality benchmarks
Act as a visible ambassador for the brand internally and externallyResource Optimisation & ComplianceOptimise utilisation of people, facilities and resources for maximum productivity
Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, health & safety and company standards
Protect the brand, guests and teams through robust governance and controlsWhat success looks like in this roleYou'll be measured by:Guest satisfaction, loyalty and brand advocacy
Cost efficiency, productivity and margin performance
Leadership strength, engagement and talent retention
Consistency of standards, audits and compliance outcomesValues & how you show upThis business believes outstanding results come from strong leadership, clear standards and genuine care for people. You'll make excellence feel effortless - for guests, teams and stakeholders alike.You will:Lead with integrity, warmth and high expectations
Create a culture of accountability, collaboration and pride
Champion innovation, continuous improvement and excellence
Remain hands-on, visible and connected to both teams and guests
Always represent the brand with professionalism and passionIf you're an accomplished hospitality executive ready to step into a defining COO role within a growing luxury brand in Portugal, we'd love to hear from you.Closing date for applications: Monday 26th January 2026