Hotel Manager

The Hotel Manager role is a hands-on, people-focused position responsible for leading a 16-room boutique property, plus four-bed penthouse in Torquay, VIC. This position suits someone passionate about hospitality, local connection, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. You’ll oversee day-to-day operations, lead a small team, and act as both host and community connector — ensuring every stay feels personal, memorable, and uniquely ‘Surf Coast’. The role also plays a key part in driving occupancy, increasing bookings, and supporting the hotel’s growth as a standout regional destination.

This one of the most exciting hotel manager roles on the Surf Coast. The property is in a prime position directly opposite the ocean and ready for its next chapter — with a wellness space (sauna + ice bath), curated art collection, in-house retail, exciting local partnerships and brand alignments. You’ll host high-profile guests, collaborate closely with the neighbouring F&B venue, and help shape a bold new identity for the hotel. It’s a rare opportunity to step into a creative, evolving role within a growing business where your ideas, leadership, and vision will genuinely influence the future of the property.

POSITION

• 38 hours per week
• Reporting to General Manager
• Weekend work + occasional after hours required
• Interested? Contact Mia Kenway, General Manager 0421556898 mia@blackwooddevelopment.com.au

RESPONSIBILITIES:

GUEST EXPERIENCE

• Ensure a consistently high standard of guest experience from pre-arrival to post-stay
• Respond promptly to guest enquiries, feedback, and special requests
• Oversee smooth and friendly check-in/check-out processes
• Act as host and custodian of the guest journey, creating an enjoyable atmosphere throughout the property and a memorable experience

 OPERATIONS

• Maintain deep working knowledge of daily systems including the PMS (Mews or Preno), Deputy, OTA platforms, Goki, and other digital tools
• Manage daily hotel operations including housekeeping, grounds, and basic maintenance
• Oversee ordering and inventory of stock, cleaning supplies and operational items
• Ensure the property and team are compliant with all safety, licensing, and accommodation regulations

TEAM LEADERSHIP

• Recruit, train, and supervise a small team to deliver consistently high-quality guest service
• Manage staff scheduling based on occupancy, ensuring effective rostering and cost control
• Share and uphold brand values, fostering a positive and professional workplace culture

OCCUPANCY & REVENUE

• Drive and monitor occupancy, ADR, and revenue performance
• Work closely with the GM, social media, and marketing teams to increase brand visibility and drive bookings
• Implement rate strategies
• Complete weekly and monthly performance reports

COMMUNITY & CONNECTION

• Actively engage with the local community (and beyond) to build strong relationships and partnerships
• Collaborate with tourism operators, local businesses, and event organisers to grow awareness and referrals
• Enhance the guest stay with thoughtful local recommendations and in-depth knowledge of the region’s food, nature, and culture
• Host occasional onsite events that bring together guests, locals, and creatives
• Foster a sense of belonging and connection among team members, returning guests and followers

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Previous experience in hotel, accommodation, hospitality or retail management
• Confident using property management systems, OTAs, and digital tools such as Deputy, Goki, and Stripe (ideal, not essential)
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing small teams or contractors
• A hands-on approach — this role requires working across all areas including front desk, social media, events and housekeeping.
• Excellent communication and guest service skills with a warm, professional manner
• Strong problem-solving ability and calm under pressure
• Understanding of occupancy, revenue, and rate management (ideal, not essential)
• Familiarity with compliance in the accommodation sector (OH&S, fire safety, privacy, etc.)
• Strong connection to or appreciation of regional living, local tourism, and community
• Creative thinker with a drive to grow bookings, build partnerships, and bring ideas to life
• Attention to detail