Area Director of Facilities ("Director de Area de Operaciones")

Azul Hospitality•Detroit, MI

About The Position

The Director of Facilities is responsible for the overall maintenance, operations, and physical condition of our portfolio of five upscale hotels located in downtown Detroit. This strategic leadership role oversees a team of building engineers stationed at each property and ensures all facilities are maintained to the highest standards of safety, functionality, and aesthetic excellence. The Director will develop and implement comprehensive maintenance programs, capital improvement plans, and operational strategies that protect our assets while enhancing the guest experience.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Construction Management, or related field
Minimum 8-10 years of progressive facilities management experience, with at least 5 years in hospitality or commercial real estate
Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience managing multi-site facilities teams
Deep technical knowledge of building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building automation
Proven track record of managing capital projects and renovation programs
Strong understanding of building codes, safety regulations, and compliance requirements
Valid driver's license and ability to travel between properties within downtown Detroit
Availability for emergency response outside normal business hours
The outstanding director of facilities must understand the technical aspects of the property, support day to day business operations, ensure efficient operation of facilities, mitigate risk, and ensure that facilities meet the needs of clients and staff.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, and a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset.
Must be able to travel on occasion, as needed.
Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand the primary language used in the workplace.
Requires good communication skills, verbal, written and electronic.
Excellent organizational skills
Broad knowledge of business functions
Considerable knowledge of complex mathematical calculations and computer programs.
Must have excellent leadership capability and customer relations skills.
Must be detail oriented with outstanding organizational and communication skills.
Must possess intermediate computer skills.
Must possess basic computational ability.
Ability to analyze, foresee user needs, and makes judgments to ensure proper tools are provided at property level.
Ability to effectively deal with internal and external customers, some of whom will require high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy and collect accurate information to resolve conflicts.
Knowledgeable about basic function of Windows OS, MS Office, PMS, PBX, Key system, and POS.
Self-driven and able to work independently.
High school or equivalent education required.
Strong background in Facilities and Project Management, hospitality, residential or similar commercial/public facing industry preferred.
Three to five years of Management experience required.
Three to five years of Engineering/Maintenance experience required.
Ability to provide and maintain a valid driver’s license as the position may require the operation of motorized and electric vehicles.

Nice To Haves

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) or equivalent professional certification
Master degree in related field
Experience with upscale or luxury hotel properties
LEED certification or demonstrated commitment to sustainability practices
Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
Knowledge of historic building preservation and renovation
Experience with complex mixed-use and historic buildings is a plus.
CPR certification and/or First Aid training preferred.

Responsibilities

Facilities Management and Operations Oversee all aspects of facilities maintenance and operations across five hotel properties, ensuring buildings, systems, and equipment are maintained in optimal condition
Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs for HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life safety, and building automation systems
Establish and maintain facilities standards and operating procedures consistent with upscale hospitality expectations
Conduct regular property inspections to identify maintenance needs, safety concerns, and opportunities for improvement
Manage emergency response protocols and serve as primary escalation point for critical facilities issues
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards
Team Leadership and Development . Lead, mentor, and develop a team of building engineers assigned to individual hotel properties
Establish performance standards, conduct evaluations, and provide ongoing coaching and professional development
Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and proactive problem-solving within the facilities team
Coordinate work schedules and resource allocation across properties to ensure optimal coverage and efficiency
Partner with hotel General Managers to align facilities priorities with property-specific operational needs
Financial Management Develop and manage annual operating budgets for facilities maintenance across all properties
Prepare capital expenditure budgets and multi-year capital improvement plans
Analyze maintenance costs and identify opportunities for operational efficiency and cost savings
Negotiate contracts with vendors, contractors, and service providers
Track and report on key performance metrics including maintenance costs, response times, and asset conditions
Vendor and Contractor Management Select, contract, and manage relationships with external vendors and contractors
Ensure work quality, safety compliance, and cost-effectiveness of third-party services
Develop preferred vendor relationships to ensure reliable service delivery
Review and approve service contracts, proposals, and invoices
Capital Projects & Renovations Plan and oversee capital improvement projects and renovations across the portfolio
Coordinate with design professionals, contractors, and stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget
Minimize operational disruption during construction and renovation activities
Ensure all capital projects meet brand standards and enhance property value
Safety & Compliance Maintain comprehensive knowledge of OSHA, ADA, and hospitality industry safety requirements
Ensure all properties maintain required permits, inspections, and certifications
Implement safety training programs for facilities staff
Oversee life safety systems including fire suppression, emergency lighting, and security systems