Director of Development, Caribbean

BUSINESS CONTEXT    

The addition of new hotels is one of the principal drivers of Marriott’s earnings growth strategy and an important element in maintaining and advancing the quality and brand equity of Marriott’s Lodging System.  The company’s unit growth strategy focuses primarily on acquisition of management contracts and licensing of our hotel brands to third party owner-operators under franchise agreements.  This position performs a central, critical role in identifying, structuring deals and successfully closing on opportunities for new hotels, and building win-win relationships with new and existing hotel owners and franchisees.

 

SPECIFIC JOB SUMMARY 

Reporting to the Vice President, Development, Caribbean, the Director of Development, Caribbean will be responsible for the development through franchise and management agreements for all Marriott hotel brands throughout the Caribbean.

The Director of Development, Caribbean identifies and pursues new business opportunities, and coordinates a multidisciplinary team involved in the review, approval and finalization of contracts for new hotels.  Success in the position demands a driving focus on creation of shareholder’s value and earnings, as well as a passion to champion new business opportunities that build brand equity and help drive customer preference.

 

SPECIFIC EXPECTED CONTRIBUTIONS

    Review and analyze potential hotel conversion, new build, or acquisition opportunities for integration into the Marriott systems. 
    Coordinate all aspects of the development process internal to Marriott International, including site inspections by brand, market management and technical services representatives, requesting feasibility studies and pro forma valuations, and presenting the opportunity for approval by the appropriate Marriott committees. 
    In tandem with Marriott's Law Department, negotiate terms and conditions of management agreements, purchase, joint venture, franchise or other agreements with owner/owner's representatives.  Ensure that agreement terms and conditions are acceptable to Marriott operating and staff executives.
    Partner with Marriott's Treasury Department to maximize returns on Marriott International investment in hotel projects.
    As needed, assist owners to identify and tap sources of financing for hotel acquisition or construction, including Marriott sponsored financing programs.
    As required, attend public hearings and meetings with regulatory agency officials to secure site plan, engineering and other approvals necessary for the project's successful development.
    Regular travels to the Caribbean region and performs other duties as appropriate.

 

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The successful candidate should possess the following attributes:

•    Ability to effectively manage a multi-disciplined, cross-functional team;
•    Ability to work independently with minimal direction;
•    Highly analytical; ability to master macro issues as well as critical details;
•    Highly organized and detail oriented;
•    Strong influencing skills with excellent verbal and written communication abilities;
•    Strong interpersonal skills; ability to interact effectively with senior management, business partners, government officials.

    A minimum of 5 years of real estate development or hotel industry experience with at least three  years of hotel development or related experience.  

    Significant knowledge of the Caribbean hotel market and a network of hotel investors and franchisee contacts in these markets.

    Demonstrated ability to effectively negotiate complex transactions; handle multiple projects on short timetables; and, manage staff resources efficiently.  Relevant experience in growing, complex territories and a current understanding of the market dynamics of his/her assigned territory is highly preferred. 

    Fluent in Spanish and English.

    Mature, professional demeanor, capable of expressing confident, independent judgment.

    B.S. or equivalent in Real Estate or Hotel Administration. MBA not essential but preferred.

 

Familiarity with capital markets is a plus.
 

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 celebrated. Our 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.