Director of Engineering

The Director of Engineering is responsible for the leadership, strategic planning, management, and execution of all engineering operations, maintenance, capital improvement projects, environmental sustainability efforts, and energy management programs across the property. This individual ensures that all physical facilities and building systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, energy, fire/life safety, elevators, public spaces, guest rooms, etc.) are operating efficiently, safely, and aligned with COMO’s service and wellness standards to enhance guest experience, operational productivity, and asset longevity.

The Director of Engineering acts as the property's chief technical advisor, collaborating closely with ownership, hotel leadership, contractors, and consultants to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Strategic and Leadership Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Engineering team, cultivating a high-performance, service-oriented culture aligned with COMO’s Mission, Vision, and Values.
• Drive department goals aligned with the hotel's business objectives, ensuring efficiency, compliance, guest satisfaction, and profitability.
• Contribute actively to Executive Committee discussions, providing technical advice and guidance on hotel projects, planning, and crisis management.
• Collaborate with senior leadership in developing the property's asset management strategy, sustainability goals, and future capital investment plans.
• Prepare, submit, and manage the Engineering operating budget, energy budgets, and long-term capital expenditure plans (CapEx).
• Develop succession plans and training programs to ensure a strong pipeline of future engineering leaders.

Operational and Technical Responsibilities:

• Direct daily operation, preventive maintenance, and reactive repair programs for all major systems: MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), HVAC, elevators, life safety, guest room maintenance, pools, public areas, kitchens, laundry, and utilities.
• Establish and maintain detailed maintenance schedules, asset registers, warranty tracking, service contracts, and vendor management systems.
• Ensure all maintenance and repair work is completed safely, timely, cost-effectively, and in a manner that minimizes disruption to guests and operations.
• Manage Building Management Systems (BMS) and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for efficiency and accuracy.
• Supervise and coordinate work with external contractors, ensuring compliance with hotel policies, timelines, quality standards, and safety regulations.

Financial and Procurement Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed operational and CapEx budgets, forecasts, and variance reports.
• Monitor utility consumption and implement strategies for cost containment and reduction.
• Negotiate maintenance, service, and procurement contracts to ensure best value and service quality.
• Analyze contractor and supplier proposals and manage procurement processes in accordance with internal controls.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure full compliance with local, regional, and international codes (e.g., fire code, health and safety regulations, environmental regulations, occupational health standards).
• Maintain all required licenses, permits, insurance certificates, and compliance documentation.
• Lead all emergency preparedness efforts, including fire/life safety system testing, emergency drills, and risk assessments.
• Maintain critical incident response protocols and serve as the point person during facility-related emergencies.

Project Management and Renovations:

• Oversee renovation and refurbishment projects, ensuring minimal disruption to operations while maintaining COMO’s brand and aesthetic standards.
• Manage all technical aspects of projects: design reviews, value engineering, scheduling, contractor management, and quality assurance.
• Partner with ownership groups, asset managers, and third-party project managers as required.

Environmental Sustainability:

• Actively support and lead the hotel's environmental sustainability initiatives and contribute to COMO’s responsible tourism programs.
• Implement and maintain energy conservation measures (ECMs), water-saving initiatives, and waste management programs.
• Report on the hotel’s environmental performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

General Responsibilities:

• Ensure individual working style, practices, and conduct are consistent with COMO’s Mission, Vision, and Values at all times.
• Foster positive team spirit and morale by building strong relationships with colleagues across the hotel.
• Undertake any additional duties as assigned by superiors.
• Be thoroughly familiar with health and safety, fire, and emergency procedures.
• Uphold high standards of personal hygiene, grooming, uniform presentation, and professional body language.
• Remain courteous, discreet, and professional in all situations, reflecting the standards and reputation of the property.
• Attend required meetings and training sessions as directed by management.
• Participate actively in hotel-wide sustainability practices, contributing ideas and supporting initiatives.
• Ensure that all activities are conducted with honesty, integrity, and in strict adherence to Thai law and COMO's ethical standards.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or related field); Master's degree or professional certifications are an advantage.
• Experience:
• Minimum 10–15 years in engineering leadership, preferably in luxury hotels, resorts, or mixed-use developments. Experience with building management technologies and sustainability programs essential.
• Technical Expertise:
• Strong knowledge of MEP, HVAC, life safety, and critical systems
• Expertise in Building Management Systems (BMS) and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
• Familiarity with international building and safety codes and sustainability practices

• Core Competencies:
• Leadership and team development
• Financial management and budgeting
• Strategic planning and execution
• Project management (renovations, upgrades, energy-saving initiatives)
• Guest-first mindset with attention to luxury service standards
• Risk assessment and emergency management