The new Autograph Collection resort at Quinta do Mar – Sintra is a luxurious 89-bedroom retreat within the Marriott portfolio, set amongst the UNESCO World Heritage landscape of Sintra on Portugal's dramatic Atlantic coastline. Spanning 14 beautifully restored buildings surrounded by landscaped gardens, the resort combines exceptional wellness experiences, inspiring meeting facilities and distinctive food and beverage concepts within one of Portugal's most captivating natural settings. Surrounded by ancient woodland, dramatic coastline and centuries of history, Quinta do Mar draws inspiration from the timeless wonder, rich heritage and quiet mysticism that have captivated travellers for generations. More than a hotel, it is a place to disconnect from the everyday, reconnect with nature and create unforgettable moments — a place to breathe, reflect, recover and indulge.

Opening is planned for Q1 2027

This is a rare opportunity to become part of the founding leadership team and help shape the operational culture, guest experience and service philosophy of one of Portugal's most exciting luxury hotel openings.

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to join the pre-opening leadership team. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you will lead the operational performance of the resort, ensuring every guest experience reflects the individuality, craftsmanship and sense of place that define Quinta do Mar and the Autograph Collection brand.

Vertiq Hospitality Partners has been appointed by the ownership to manage this unique property. Formerly known as Cycas Hospitality, Vertiq is one of Europe's leading hospitality management companies, operating hotels across multiple international brands with a vision "to be the trusted operating partner in European hospitality investments."

About the Role

Working alongside the General Manager, you will lead the day-to-day operation of Quinta do Mar, ensuring exceptional guest experiences whilst delivering operational excellence and commercial performance.

Leading the resort's operational Heads of Department, you will oversee all operational functions, building a collaborative, high-performing leadership team and working closely with the Executive Chef, Finance Manager, Director of Sales & Marketing and People & Culture Manager to achieve the resort's strategic objectives.

This is a highly visible, hands-on leadership role. From pre-opening mobilisation through launch and beyond, you will lead by example, inspire your teams and ensure every guest experience reflects the individuality and sense of place that define the Autograph Collection brand.

About You

• Minimum five years' operational leadership experience within luxury or premium hospitality
• Previous experience as an Operations Manager, Hotel Manager or senior operational leader
• Previous hotel pre-opening experience would be highly advantageous
• Previous Marriott experience would be advantageous
• Strong operational knowledge across Front Office, Housekeeping and Food & Beverage
• Proven experience leading Heads of Department and developing high-performing leadership teams
• Commercially minded with strong financial awareness
• Excellent leadership, communication and coaching skills
• Passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences and building engaged teams
• Fluent in Portuguese and English

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Performance-based bonus scheme
• Marriott Associate Travel Programme with discounted accommodation worldwide
• Career development opportunities within Vertiq Hospitality Partners
• Opportunity to join the pre-opening leadership team of a luxury Autograph Collection resort
• Exclusive employee discounted rates across other Vertiq Hospitality Partners managed properties
• Reward and Recognition Programme
• Free parking

Duties & Responsibilities

• Support the mobilisation, opening and successful launch of the resort.
• Recruit, onboard and develop operational teams with the People & Culture Manager.
• Create operating procedures, service standards and opening plans.
• Lead operational readiness, rehearsals and opening activities.
• Ensure Marriott brand compliance and support Authority to Open (ATO).
• Manage daily operations through department heads.
• Coach and hold leaders accountable for performance and results.
• Drive operational excellence through leadership and continuous improvement.
• Act as senior operational leader in the General Manager’s absence.
• Foster collaboration across departments to deliver a seamless guest experience.
• Champion luxury service standards aligned with the Autograph Collection brand.
• Drive guest satisfaction, reputation management and service recovery.
• Deliver profitability through labour optimisation, productivity and cost control.
• Partner with the General Manager and Finance Manager to achieve financial targets, budgets and forecasts.
• Develop and mentor department heads while supporting succession planning and engagement.
• Build an inclusive, accountable and high-performing culture aligned with Vertiq Hospitality Partners and Marriott values.
• Lead operational audits, quality assurance and brand standards compliance.
• Ensure compliance with Portuguese health, safety, food safety and licensing regulations.
• Promote sustainability and continuous operational improvement.