Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced and commercially focused Deputy General Manager to join the leadership team at our 161 bedroom Holiday Inn Express in Harlow.
This is a key leadership position for an energetic hotel operator who enjoys being visible on the floor, leading teams, delivering excellent guest experiences and driving strong commercial and operational performance.
Working closely with the General Manager, you will be the second-in-command of the hotel, taking responsibility for the day-to-day operation and ensuring the hotel consistently delivers against guest, brand, financial and operational standards.
Key responsibilities
- Support the General Manager in the overall management and performance of the hotel.
- Take full operational responsibility in the GM's absence.
- Lead, motivate and develop the hotel team, creating a positive and accountable working culture.
- Maintain consistently high standards of guest satisfaction and service delivery.
- Monitor and manage labour costs, productivity and departmental performance.
- Work closely with the commercial team to maximise occupancy, ADR and RevPAR.
- Drive hotel profitability and support the achievement of budget and GOP targets.
- Ensure compliance with IHG brand standards, health & safety, food safety and company policies.
- Oversee front office, housekeeping, breakfast/F&B and other hotel operations.
- Manage guest feedback and resolve issues promptly and professionally.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management and succession planning.
- Analyse hotel performance and take appropriate corrective action where required.
- Build strong relationships with guests, colleagues, suppliers and the local business community.
- Deputise for the GM and represent the hotel professionally when required.
About you
We are looking for someone who is hands-on, commercially aware and genuinely passionate about hotel operations.
You will ideally have:
- Previous experience as a Deputy General Manager, Operations Manager, Hotel Manager or strong Assistant General Manager in a hotel environment.
- Experience managing a reasonably sized hotel operation — ideally 100+ bedrooms.
- Strong understanding of hotel P&L, labour management and operational KPIs.
- A proven ability to lead and develop teams.
- Excellent guest service and problem-solving skills.
- Strong communication and organisational skills.
- A commercial mindset with the ability to identify opportunities to improve revenue and profitability.
- The confidence to make decisions and take ownership.
- Experience with IHG or another major hotel brand would be advantageous, but is not essential.
What we offer
- £35k per annum salary
- Opportunity to play a significant role in the leadership of a 165-bedroom branded hotel
- Career development and progression opportunities
- Holiday entitlement and pension
- Meals on duty
- A supportive and entrepreneurial management environment
- The opportunity to make a real impact on the hotel's guest satisfaction, commercial performance and profitability
The opportunity
This is not a purely office-based management role. We are looking for a visible and hands-on hotel leader who enjoys being involved in the operation, supporting their team and making things happen.
If you are an ambitious hotel professional ready to take the next step — or an experienced DGM looking for a new challenge — we would love to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV and a brief covering note explaining why you are interested in joining Holiday Inn Express Harlow.
Pay: Up to £35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
