Deputy General Manager

Belmond is seeking a Deputy General Manager for Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for the beginning of 2024, the legendary train that transports guests to the Golden Age on captivating journeys across Europe. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader with a passion for excellence and storytelling in travel, a strong cultural awareness and an unswerving approach to maintaining standards. Based in Venice, Italy, the ideal candidate will embrace and deliver the Vision of Belmond, assist with strategic planning, efficient operations and leadership, and strive towards Belmond’s brand strategy of being the number one luxury travel experience in the world. ABOUT THE ROLE Are you a confident, innovative leader with exceptional communication and organisational skills? Are you a skilled problem-solver with incredible attention to detail? Do you have several years’ experience in international hotel management positions at luxury level? Then you could be perfect for the role of Deputy General Manager of one of the world’s most iconic trains. Reporting to the General Manager, and leading the Train Management team, you will oversee the daily operations of the train, collaborate on strategic planning and provide leadership support. Fluent in English and French, with a smattering of Italian, you will have a good knowledge of food and wine. You will manage all aspects of the onboard guest experience, help implement innovations, and supervise, prepare and control the departmental budget. You will nurture high levels of employee engagement and morale and manage staffing and scheduling to ensure the utmost productivity. You will represent the business in a positive and productive manner, attend events and act as an ambassador for Belmond. As a visible presence for guests and employees alike, you will be a genuine character and a great storyteller with a community spirit and a pioneering mindset. ABOUT THE TRAIN The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a legend in motion. Its meticulously restored carriages carry guests in sumptuous style between Europe’s most beguiling cities. Classic one-night journeys glide between London, Paris and Venice. Further routes take in Amsterdam, Brussels, Budapest, Florence, Geneva, Istanbul, Prague, Rome, Cannes, Verona and Vienna, with longer tours including overnight hotel stays. Golden age opulence is epitomised in the private cabins of polished wood and plush upholstery, while the Grand Suites offer the ultimate indulgence, with double beds, marbled en suites, free-flowing champagne, private dining and 24-hour butler service. Gastronomy is a major highlight of the onboard experience. Chef Jean Imbert celebrates seasonality and artisan produce in his exquisite menus, which are complemented by a wine list boasting Europe’s finest vintages and appellations. Three 1920s restaurant cars offer distinctly different ambiences, while Bar Car ‘3674’ is the train’s social hub, reviving all the glamour and decadence of the past. ABOUT BELMOND Belmond is part of the world’s leading luxury group, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Belmond has been a pioneer of exceptional luxury travel since 1976. Its portfolio extends across 24 countries with 46 remarkable properties that include the illustrious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, remote beach retreats like Cap Juluca in Anguilla, Italian hideaways such as Splendido in Portofino, and gateways to natural wonders such as Hotel das Cataratas beside Brazil’s Iguassu Falls. From trains to river barges, safari lodges to hotels, each unique property has a distinctive story, personality and identity, with a personalised team to match. The essence of the Belmond brand is built upon its heritage, craftsmanship and genuine, authentic service. We treasure history while looking to the future. We embrace community spirit and believe in responsible, sustainable tourism. As part of our Think Global, Act Local approach, we prioritise purchasing food from sustainable sources, run and support educational programmes and follow sustainable practices to reduce our impact on the environment. Requirements 3 – 5 years relevant experience within a similar role Proven leadership ability and experience in handling and coordinating different teams Previous experience in a similar role – advantageous Experience within the luxury hospitality industry Relevant related diploma or degree Demonstrated ability to be innovative and creative Extensive knowledge and exposure to the luxury travel sector – both locally and internationally Exceptional communication, organisational & administrative skills Knowledge to draft and control budgets Understanding of data analysis and forecasting Good knowledge and understanding of food and wine Good financial understanding Excellent leaderships skills, with the ability to manage and motivate others Experience in resolving customer issues/complaints Proven ability to effectively build and foster a team environment Fluency in English and French, both written and verbal, is essential Intermediate Italian, written and verbal – advantageous Excellent public relations and communication skills Advanced verbal and written communication skills Exceptional leadership abilities with great attention to detail Demonstrable aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving A high level of professionalism and confidentiality/discretion Confident and presentable Professional and pleasant disposition Ability to use initiative and be proactive Ability to work under pressure Ability to travel frequently Ability to work flexible working hours European or Swiss passport holder BELMOND AND YOU When you join Belmond, you become part of a global family. We ask you to embrace our Belmond behaviours, follow our directives and reflect the ethos of our group. In return, we ensure our employees enjoy just as many memorable moments as our guests. Benefits include the Discovering Belmond programme, which offers team members complimentary accommodation at Belmond hotels, discounted rates for our trains, cruises and safaris, and discounted food and beverages. More importantly, we support you in your career. We make a point of investing in your development and wellbeing to help you reach your full potential. J-18808-Ljbffr