Chief Engineer

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort

We're seeking an exceptional **Chief Engineer** to lead our engineering operations in Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal leadership role, you'll oversee all building systems, infrastructure, and maintenance operations while directing a talented engineering team. You'll be responsible for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and compliance across the entire property, while driving innovation and operational excellence. This is an opportunity to shape engineering strategy, mentor your team, and make a meaningful impact on our organization's success.

• Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering department, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement
• Develop and implement comprehensive engineering strategies, including planned preventative maintenance programs and capital improvement initiatives
• Oversee the management and optimization of all critical building systems, including HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, water systems, BMS, and life-safety equipment
• 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
• 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
• Develop and manage engineering budgets, control expenditure, and identify cost-saving opportunities through energy, water, and utility optimization
• 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
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Housekeeping, Front Office, Food & Beverage, Security, and other departments to resolve operational challenges
• Participate in on-call and emergency response protocols as required
• Analyze performance metrics, identify trends, and implement data-driven improvements to enhance operational efficiency
• Support the organization's commitment to health, safety, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance
• Ensure all work is completed in accordance with manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and organizational procedures

**Required Skills & 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
• Proven track record of successfully leading and supervising engineering teams
• Strong experience managing contractors, vendors, and specialist service providers
• Comprehensive understanding of statutory compliance, building codes, and planned preventative maintenance programs
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex technical issues
• Proficiency with IT systems and maintenance management software
• Strong budgeting, financial management, and procurement experience
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and motivate teams
• Demonstrated attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Proactive health and safety awareness with a commitment to risk mitigation

**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

**Domain Expertise:**

• Strategic planning and capital project management
• Performance metrics, KPI development, and operational reporting
• Staff training, development, and performance management
• Risk assessment, mitigation, and emergency response protocols
• Energy optimization and sustainability initiatives
• Regulatory compliance and inspection management