Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer (COO)Luxury hospitality and world class resortsPortugalHighly competitive executive packagePerformance-related bonusHealthcare for family*Relocation support (where required)Accommodation for initial six monthsLong-term growth and equity-aligned incentivesThe 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 following essential requirements:Proven executive-level experience within luxury hospitality or resort environmentsFluency in Portuguese and EnglishExperience living and working in Portugal and an understanding of the local marketEligibility to work in PortugalDeep understanding of multi-disciplinary, complex resort and hotel operationsStrong financial acumen and commercial decision-making capabilityA track record of scaling operations and driving sustainable growthExceptional leadership presence, emotional intelligence and communication skillsCalm, 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 ServicesEnsure seamless, high-quality service delivery across all departmentsDrive continuous improvement in operational processes, standards and efficiencyFinancial & Commercial PerformanceFull responsibility for operational budgets, cost control and profitabilityDrive revenue growth, margin improvement and EBITDA performanceAnalyse performance data, identify opportunities and take decisive actionStrategy & ExecutionTranslate the company's strategic vision into clear, actionable operational plansLead the implementation of new initiatives, concepts and systemsSupport expansion, refurbishment and development projects where requiredLeadership & CultureBuild, lead and retain high-performing executive and operational teamsFoster a strong service-led culture aligned to luxury brand valuesDevelop succession plans, leadership capability and long-term talent pipelinesGuest Experience & Brand StandardsEnsure consistent, exceptional guest experiences across all touchpointsUphold brand positioning, service rituals and quality benchmarksAct as a visible ambassador for the brand internally and externallyResource Optimisation & ComplianceOptimise utilisation of people, facilities and resources for maximum productivityEnsure compliance with all legal, regulatory, health & safety and company standardsProtect 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 advocacyCost efficiency, productivity and margin performanceLeadership strength, engagement and talent retentionConsistency 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 expectationsCreate a culture of accountability, collaboration and prideChampion innovation, continuous improvement and excellenceRemain hands-on, visible and connected to both teams and guestsAlways 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: Friday 30th January 2026Please note: Due to anticipated high levels of interest, all applications will be reviewed and responded to following the closing date.