Chief Engineer

Role Overview

Chief Engineer at Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, Accor, located in Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. This is a pivotal leadership role overseeing all building systems, infrastructure, and maintenance operations while directing a talented engineering team.

Role Purpose

Lead engineering operations across the entire property, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and compliance of all building systems and infrastructure. Shape engineering strategy, mentor your team, and drive innovation and operational excellence to support organizational success.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering department, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement
• Prove track record of successfully leading and supervising engineering teams

Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement comprehensive engineering strategies, including planned preventative maintenance programs and capital improvement initiatives
• Support strategic planning and capital project management
• Analyze performance metrics, identify trends, and implement data-driven improvements to enhance operational efficiency
• Develop performance metrics, KPIs, and operational reporting

Building Systems Management

• Oversee the management and optimization of all critical building systems, including HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, water systems, BMS, and life-safety equipment
• Ensure all work is completed in accordance with manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and organizational procedures

Maintenance & Operations

• Conduct regular inspections of guest rooms, public areas, back-of-house facilities, plant rooms, and building infrastructure to ensure safety and functionality
• Manage reactive and preventative maintenance operations, prioritizing effectively in a fast-paced environment while minimizing disruption to operations
• Establish and maintain appropriate inventory levels of engineering spares, tools, and consumables
• Respond decisively to engineering emergencies and critical system failures, implementing effective solutions with minimal operational impact

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure strict adherence to statutory compliance requirements, building codes, and relevant legislation; maintain comprehensive documentation and asset registers
• Coordinate and supervise external contractors and specialist service providers, ensuring compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and permits to work
• Support the organization's commitment to health, safety, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance
• Conduct risk assessment, mitigation, and emergency response protocols
• Demonstrate proactive health and safety awareness with a commitment to risk mitigation
• Participate in on-call and emergency response protocols as required

Financial & Procurement Management

• Develop and manage engineering budgets, control expenditure, and identify cost-saving opportunities through energy, water, and utility optimization
• Demonstrate strong budgeting, financial management, and procurement experience

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Housekeeping, Front Office, Food & Beverage, Security, and other departments to resolve operational challenges
• Manage contractors, vendors, and specialist service providers
• Support staff training, development, and performance management

Sustainability & Optimization

• Drive energy optimization and sustainability initiatives
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through energy, water, and utility optimization

Qualifications & Experience

• Extensive experience as a Chief Engineer, Senior Engineering Manager, or equivalent leadership role in hospitality, commercial, or high-end residential environments
• Advanced practical knowledge of building services, maintenance systems, and infrastructure management
• Demonstrated expertise in HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and water systems
• Comprehensive understanding of statutory compliance, building codes, and planned preventative maintenance programs
• Strong experience managing contractors, vendors, and specialist service providers

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex technical issues
• Proficiency with IT systems and maintenance management software
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and motivate teams
• Demonstrated attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Strong organizational abilities

Additional Information

Preferred Qualifications & Certifications

• City & Guilds, NVQ, or BTEC engineering qualifications
• Electrical or mechanical engineering certifications
• IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) certification
• Legionella/L8 awareness certification
• Water hygiene or water treatment certification
• Project management certification or equivalent training
• Energy management or sustainability certification