Role Overview for VP of Construction (Hospitality) – Orlando, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a leading real estate development and investment firm specializing in the dynamic hospitality sector. We are seeking an exceptional and highly experienced Vice President of Construction (Hospitality) to spearhead large-scale, complex projects in the vibrant Orlando, Florida market. This pivotal leadership role demands a visionary professional with a proven track record of successfully delivering ground-up developments, extensive renovations, and strategic expansions of hotels, resorts, and integrated hospitality complexes.
As the VP of Construction, you will be instrumental in shaping the future skyline of Orlando’s premier leisure and business destinations. You will be responsible for providing strategic direction and executive oversight for all construction activities, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety. This role requires a leader who can not only manage complex logistical challenges but also inspire and mentor a high-performing team, cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders, and champion innovation in construction methodologies.
The successful candidate will possess an unparalleled understanding of the unique nuances of hospitality construction, including brand standards, operational requirements, guest experience considerations, and the intricate coordination involved in delivering world-class facilities. You will be a key player in the executive leadership team, contributing to strategic planning, risk assessment, and the continuous improvement of construction processes. This is an extraordinary opportunity for a seasoned construction executive to make a significant impact on iconic projects within one of the world’s most exciting hospitality markets, driving growth and excellence for a forward-thinking organization.
You will navigate the entire project lifecycle, from initial conceptualization and feasibility studies through design, procurement, construction, and final closeout. This includes meticulous planning, rigorous execution, and proactive problem-solving to overcome any challenges that may arise. Your leadership will ensure seamless collaboration between internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies, fostering an environment of efficiency and accountability. Staying abreast of the latest trends in hospitality development and sustainable building practices will be crucial for success in this role, allowing our projects to remain at the forefront of the industry.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Construction (Hospitality) – Orlando, FL
- Strategic Planning & Oversight: Develop and implement comprehensive construction strategies aligned with the company’s overall business objectives and growth plans. Provide executive leadership and guidance across all phases of multiple concurrent hospitality construction projects, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, budget, and quality benchmarks.
- Project Management Excellence: Oversee the entire project lifecycle from pre-construction planning, site selection, due diligence, design management, and permitting through construction, commissioning, and closeout. Implement robust project management methodologies and tools to track progress, identify potential issues, and ensure timely and successful delivery of all projects.
- Budget & Financial Management: Develop, manage, and meticulously control project budgets, including capital expenditure planning, cost forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting. Implement stringent cost-control measures, conduct value engineering analyses, and negotiate favorable terms with vendors and contractors to maximize project profitability.
- Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, mentor, motivate, and manage a high-performing team of project managers, construction managers, and support staff. Foster a collaborative, productive, and safety-conscious work environment, promoting continuous professional development and knowledge sharing within the department.
- Contractor & Vendor Relations: Lead the selection, negotiation, and management of general contractors, architects, engineers, consultants, and specialized vendors. Develop and enforce robust contract administration processes, ensuring all parties adhere to contractual obligations, specifications, and performance standards.
- Quality Assurance & Control: Establish and enforce rigorous quality control standards and procedures to ensure all construction work meets design specifications, industry best practices, and the high-quality expectations of the hospitality brand. Conduct regular site inspections and audits to monitor workmanship and material quality.
- Risk Management & Mitigation: Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate construction-related risks, including schedule delays, cost overruns, safety hazards, and regulatory compliance issues. Develop contingency plans and implement effective risk management strategies to safeguard project success.
- Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for all construction-related matters, fostering strong, transparent communication with executive leadership, owners, investors, hotel operators, brand representatives, and other key stakeholders. Provide regular, concise, and accurate project updates and reports.
- Regulatory Compliance & Permitting: Ensure all construction activities comply with local, state, and federal building codes, zoning regulations, environmental laws, and permitting requirements specific to the Orlando and Florida markets. Oversee the timely acquisition of all necessary permits and approvals.
- Innovation & Best Practices: Stay abreast of emerging construction technologies, materials, sustainable building practices, and industry trends within the hospitality sector. Evaluate and implement innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, improve quality, and promote environmental stewardship in projects.
Requirements for the VP of Construction (Hospitality) – Orlando, FL
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED AP) are highly preferred and will be viewed favorably.
- Experience: A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in construction management, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP, Director, Senior Project Executive) specifically focused on large-scale hospitality projects. This must include extensive experience with ground-up hotel and resort development, major renovations, and complex mixed-use projects with significant hospitality components.
- Industry Expertise: Deep and demonstrable understanding of the unique challenges and requirements of hospitality construction, including brand standards, operational needs, FF&E procurement, and the critical path to opening. Proven experience navigating the complexities of multi-phase projects in active environments.
- Project Portfolio: A robust portfolio showcasing successful delivery of multi-million dollar hospitality projects, demonstrating expertise in managing budgets, schedules, and quality for high-profile assets.
- Technical Acumen: Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, building codes, safety regulations, and construction technologies. Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, Procore, Prolog) and construction management information systems.
- Financial Savvy: Exceptional financial management skills, including budgeting, cost control, forecasting, and contract negotiation. Ability to analyze financial data and make sound business decisions that positively impact project profitability.
- Leadership & Communication: Superior leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and manage diverse teams. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of presenting complex information clearly and persuasively to all levels of stakeholders, from field teams to executive boards.
- Problem-Solving & Decision Making: Proven ability to identify critical issues, analyze complex problems, and implement effective, timely solutions under pressure. Strong decision-making capabilities with a focus on achieving optimal outcomes.
- Local Market Knowledge: Familiarity with the Orlando and broader Florida construction market, including local permitting processes, regulatory environment, and a network of reputable contractors and vendors, is a significant advantage.
- Travel: Ability to travel as required for project oversight, site visits, and meetings.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent. As the VP of Construction (Hospitality) in Orlando, FL, you will be eligible for:
- Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and industry leadership.
- Performance-based bonuses tied to project success and company profitability.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and company-paid holidays.
- 401(k) retirement plan with a strong company match.
- Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and leadership training.
- Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional out-of-market candidates.
- A dynamic, collaborative, and supportive work environment where innovation is encouraged.
- The chance to lead iconic, high-impact projects in one of the world’s most exciting hospitality markets.
- Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies to support your work.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary construction leader with a passion for hospitality development and a desire to make a significant impact in the Orlando market, we encourage you to apply. This is an unparalleled opportunity to join a growing and respected firm through JRG Partners, a leading executive search firm.
To express your interest, please submit your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and significant project accomplishments to our recruiting team. Highlight specific examples of your leadership in large-scale hospitality construction projects and your financial management expertise. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications.
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