General Manager - Luxury Villa Pre-Opening | Jericoacoara, Brazil

Overview

We are seeking an experienced General Manager to oversee the full pre-opening phase and subsequent operations of an ultra-luxury private villa located in Jericoacoara, Brazil. This unique leadership role requires a hands-on operational expert who has a proven track record in launching high-end hospitality venues from the ground up, including building exceptional teams, establishing operational systems, and setting flawless guest service standards.

Note: This position is exclusively open to Brazilian nationals and involves relocation to Jericoacoara.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of the pre-opening process, from initial planning to successful launch.
• Design and implement operational strategies, including developing comprehensive SOPs, manuals, policies, and service standards tailored to the property.
• Establish efficient workflows, department structures, and operational guidelines.
• Manage coordination with suppliers, contractors, and all operational partners.
• Oversee implementation of property management systems and other operational technologies.
• Define recruitment plans and overall organizational structure aligned with operational needs.
• Develop budgets and financial forecasts to ensure operational success.
• Prepare the property meticulously to guarantee seamless opening and functioning.
• Recruit, onboard, train, and build a high-performing team with a focus on departmental leadership.
• Conduct staff performance reviews, provide coaching to department heads, and manage disciplinary processes.
• Make critical hiring and termination decisions fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years' experience in luxury hospitality as a General Manager, Operations Manager, or Director of Operations.
• Demonstrated success leading at least one complete pre-opening of a luxury hotel, resort, or private villa.
• Expertise in crafting operational SOPs from the ground up and building departments.
• Proven skills in managing all stages of staff recruitment, development, and termination.
• Strong leadership abilities across multiple hospitality departments.
• Experience managing budgets and working with vendors and contractors.
• Fluency in spoken and written English.
• Willingness to relocate to Jericoacoara, Brazil.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with Forbes Five-Star or Leading Hotels recognized properties.
• Background in luxury boutique hotels, villas, or ultra-luxury resorts.
• International hospitality exposure is advantageous.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary paid in USD or EUR, commensurate with experience.
• Annual performance bonuses linked to achievement of goals.
• Contractual arrangement as a service provider (PJ).
• 28 calendar days of paid vacation annually.
• Relocation assistance to Jericoacoara, including temporary housing support.
• Ability to lead the inaugural launch of an exclusive ultra-luxury villa.
• High degree of autonomy with extensive decision-making privileges.
• Work in an international and multidisciplinary environment alongside experts in architecture, design, and real estate development.
• Potential for career advancement within a rapidly expanding luxury hospitality and real estate enterprise.