Hospitality Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Lilongwe, Malawi – Hospitality & Tourism

Job Description

Position: Hospitality Operations Manager

Company: Sunbird Hotels

Location: Lilongwe, Malawi

Experience: 5+ years in hotel operations management

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Hospitality & Tourism

Department: Operations

Salary: SSP 1,200,000 – SSP 1,800,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Sunbird Hotels is a leading hospitality brand in Malawi, renowned for delivering exceptional guest experiences across its portfolio of boutique and resort properties. With a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, Sunbird integrates local culture, community engagement, and environmental stewardship into every aspect of its operations. As a major employer, Sunbird contributes significantly to Malawi’s tourism sector and offers vibrant career pathways for professionals seeking growth in hospitality. The company’s dedication to excellence has earned it multiple awards and a reputation for being a top choice among both travelers and job seekers. This role provides a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of hospitality in Malawi, supporting the nation’s ambition to become a premier destination for international and domestic tourists.

Job Overview

The Hospitality Operations Manager will lead the day‑to‑day management of Sunbird’s flagship hotel in Lilongwe, ensuring seamless service delivery, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you will oversee all operational departments, including front office, housekeeping, food & beverage, and maintenance. Your strategic vision will drive revenue growth, cost control, and quality standards while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This position is central to Sunbird’s mission of delivering world‑class hospitality experiences and supports the broader goal of creating sustainable employment opportunities within Malawi. The role is ideal for seasoned professionals who thrive in fast‑paced environments and are passionate about elevating service standards across the hospitality industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate all hotel operations to achieve guest satisfaction targets and financial objectives.
• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and SOPs aligned with brand standards.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as occupancy rates, average daily rate (ADR), and RevPAR, and take corrective actions as needed.
• Lead, mentor, and evaluate department heads, fostering a collaborative and high‑performance team culture.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cost‑control initiatives to optimize profitability.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards, including local labor laws.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to create promotional packages and drive market penetration.
• Oversee guest feedback mechanisms, resolve escalated issues, and implement service recovery strategies.
• Drive sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and community outreach programs.
• Prepare regular reports for senior management and stakeholders on operational performance.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and people‑management abilities with a focus on team development.
• Excellent analytical and financial acumen for budgeting and revenue management.
• Proficiency in hotel management software (e.g., Opera, Fidelio) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and make decisions under pressure.
• Deep understanding of hospitality standards, guest service excellence, and industry trends.
• Commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline is required. Relevant certifications such as Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) or similar are advantageous.

Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in hotel operations, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or managerial role. Experience in a four‑star or higher property is preferred.

Salary

The competitive salary range is SSP 1,200,000 to SSP 1,800,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and incentives are also part of the compensation package.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Paid annual leave and statutory holidays.
• Retirement savings plan contribution.
• Employee discount on hotel stays and dining.
• Opportunities for international training and career advancement.

Training

• Comprehensive onboarding program covering Sunbird’s brand standards and operational procedures.
• Ongoing professional development workshops in leadership, revenue management, and sustainability.
• Access to industry conferences and certification courses.

Working Environment

The role is based in a modern hotel facility in Lilongwe, offering a collaborative workspace with state‑of‑the‑art amenities. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams in a vibrant, guest‑focused environment that values innovation, diversity, and continuous learning.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their application through our online portal. Please upload your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. Apply online at https://malawijobsearch.com/. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Sunbird Hotels is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.