Regional Director, Franchise Openings

The Regional Director, Franchise Openings will oversee the successful launch of new franchise hotels, ensuring openings are delivered on schedule and in alignment with brand standards. This role serves as a key liaison between franchise owners, hotel leadership, and internal cross-functional teams throughout the hotel opening process. You will manage opening timelines, coordinate project milestones, resolve operational obstacles, and help properties achieve a strong start. Through strategic consultation, on-site visits, and proactive relationship management, you will support owners and hotel teams from construction through opening. The position combines project management, hospitality expertise, and stakeholder engagement to improve opening efficiency and hotel performance. This is a remote position requiring residence in the Charlotte, NC area and extensive travel of approximately 75–80%.

• A bachelor's or master's degree in hotel management or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.

• Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) credential preferred.

• 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in the hotel industry, with demonstrated proficiency across multiple relevant disciplines or processes.

• Experience managing teams, preferably cross-functional teams, including groups where team members do not report directly to you.

• Project management experience in a matrix organization, coordinating multiple business units and stakeholders; experience in an international or global organization is preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute large-scale hotel projects from conception through implementation, managing multiple priorities with strong follow-through and attention to detail.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with hotel general managers, principal correspondents, owners, vendors, senior management, and internal teams.

• Strong relationship management, negotiation, persuasion, and conflict resolution skills.

• Comprehensive knowledge of hotel operations, including the ability to assess performance and develop strategic tools to improve results.

• Knowledge of construction processes and procedures, with the ability to evaluate progress, challenge contractors when necessary, and communicate realistic timelines.

• Familiarity with training principles and experience preparing, implementing, and delivering training programs.

• Proficiency with Property Management Systems (PMS) and Revenue Management Systems (RMS).

• Willingness and ability to travel approximately 75–80%.

• Location requirement: Candidates must reside in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. Although the position is remote, extensive travel is required.