Development Manager Italy
The role plays a pivotal role in accelerating the company expansion strategy across the Italian market. The position is responsible for identifying, evaluating, structuring, and closing new hotel development and conversion opportunities in line with the Group’s growth priorities. The role requires strong commercial acumen, real estate expertise, financial sophistication, and relationship-building capabilities, combined with a deep understanding of the Italian hospitality landscape and the upper-midscale and lifestyle positioning of the Leonardo brands.
Key Responsibilities
Development & Growth Strategy
Proactively identify and source new hotel opportunities (existing assets, conversions, repositionings, and new developments) across Italy. Focus on urban locations aligned with Leonardo Hotels’ target segments: corporate, MICE, leisure and bleisure. Build and manage a strong pipeline of potential projects in line with annual growth targets.Market Intelligence & Strategic Positioning
Analyze market fundamentals including demand drivers, RevPAR performance, competitive landscape, pipeline supply, and destination growth trends. Identify strategic opportunities in both primary and high-potential secondary cities. Provide insights to senior leadership on Italian market dynamics and competitive positioning. Support brand alignment to ensure each opportunity fits the identity and operational model of the company.Deal Origination & Execution
Lead the full deal lifecycle from origination to contract execution. Conduct feasibility analyses including financial modeling, cash flow projections, and return metrics. Structure and negotiate commercial terms with property owners, developers, asset managers, and institutional investors. Prepare investment memoranda, development proposals, and brand presentations tailored to Italian ownership structures. Support due diligence processes including technical, legal, and operational assessments.Relationship Management
Develop and maintain strong relationships with: Property owners and developers Real estate funds and institutional investors Local brokers and advisory firms Banking partners and hospitality consultants Represent Leonardo Hotels at industry events and networking platforms within Italy.Internal Coordination
Collaborate closely with operations, technical services, finance, legal, and brand teams to ensure project feasibility and alignment. Support internal approval processes and present business cases to senior management. Ensure smooth transition from signed deal to pre-opening and operational handover, safeguarding brand standards and commercial objectives.
What We’re Looking For
Solid experience in hospitality development, hotel real estate, or advisory within Italy. Strong understanding of the Italian hotel market dynamics and ownership structures. Bachelor’s degree in Business, Real Estate, Hospitality, Finance or related field; MBA is a plus. Proven experience negotiating and closing hotel management or lease agreements. Advanced financial modeling and feasibility analysis capabilities. In-depth knowledge of Hotel P&L structures Lease and management agreements Conversion strategies and repositioning projects Excellent communication and presentation skills in English and Italian. Strong commercial drive with an entrepreneurial and results-oriented mindset. Ability to work effectively in an international, fast-paced, matrix organization. Willingness to travel extensively within Italy and to other countries
Location: Rome or Milan