Director, Product & Technical, lyf

About Us

Since pioneering Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced residence with the opening of The Ascott Singapore in 1984, Ascott has grown to be a trusted hospitality company with over 950 properties globally. Headquartered in Singapore, Ascott’s presence extends across more than 230 cities in over 40 countries in Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA.

Its diversified accommodation offerings span serviced residences, co-living properties, hotels and independent senior living apartments. Ascott's award-winning hospitality brands include Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello. Through Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott’s loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and offers at participating properties.

A wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott is a leading vertically-integrated lodging operator. Harnessing its extensive network of third-party owners and in-market expertise, Ascott grows fee-related earnings through its hospitality management and investment management capabilities

The Opportunity

At lyf, Ascott’s vibrant experience-led social living brand, we’re shaping the future of hospitality by creating dynamic spaces that foster collaboration and creativity. As part of corporate HQ, you'll be at the forefront of a global movement, driving unique experiences that blend tech-driven solutions with locally inspired design. If you're passionate about transforming the way people live, work, and connect, lyf offers an exciting opportunity to grow, innovate, and make a global impact. Be part of a brand that’s redefining the future of co-living! This position plays a crucial part in leading the design strategy for existing hotels and new initiatives, while also overseeing construction, renovation, and prototype projects. The key focus is to ensure the successful implementation and execution of design plans for lyf properties globally.

Responsibilities:

• Develop standards and guidelines, guidance and compliance of lyf Standards, Property Improvement Plans (PIP’s) Design Related Support.
• Develop regionally appropriate hotel design and planning strategies through the regional Design & Technical Services team, ensuring compliance with Brand Design requirements, lyf Standards, and providing design-related support for Property Improvement Plans (PIP’s) and potential takeovers.
• Collaborate with Business Development (BD) on all pre-development activities and provide support for BD Lead Brand Pitch documents where required for strategic deals.
• Collaborate with PTS and regional representatives to gain a comprehensive understanding of the operational requirements in guest facing areas of the properties, ensuring alignment with the brand's standards.
• Liaise with Owners, Designers, Architects, Lighting Designers, and other stakeholders to ensure clear comprehension and adherence to lyf Brand Design parameters and project design briefs.
• Responsible for the accurate and timely preparation and maintenance of monthly project progress reports, including projected opening dates and construction status for each property.
• Track and monitor hotel openings within your domain of responsibility on a bi-weekly basis and ensure completion of post-opening follow-up reports.
• Participate in the preparation of Program Committee documentation and assess the alignment of projects with the brand(s) standards. Identify and report any instances of noncompliance.
• Monitor and enforce quality standards and compliance with approved drawings and Brand Standards during on-site construction for all projects. Promptly report any deviations to the PTS and lyf Head, and collaborate with the Owner, if necessary, to implement corrective measures.
• Responsible for visiting, inspecting, and validating mock-up rooms, developing reports, and ensuring that the prototype room incorporates all required changes.
• Responsible for overseeing the design and review process of (in-house/outsourced) fire life and safety activities for both new construction and renovation projects in collaboration with the Head of MEP Design Services.
• Prepare Prototype Facility Area Programs maximizing efficiencies and implementation into preliminary Architectural
• Review, approve, and provide hotel facility planning assistance for the design concepts of renovations and new builds.
• Research and pre-qualify, and maintain a database of Interior and Architectural Design Firms that specialize in hospitality projects.
• Proactively seek out opportunities for Continuous Professional and Personal Development and to actively keep abreast of industry innovation and trends.
• Pro-actively manage departmental expenses within approved departmental budgets.

Requirements:

• At least 10 years of experience in the architectural or engineering design field with strong project management skills.
• Holds an Architectural or Engineering degree from an accredited institution.
• Experienced in managing internal multi-disciplinary teams in the development of hospitality projects.
• Capable of effectively managing third-party consultants.
• Independent thinker who is comfortable with proactive innovation, managing change, and leading department initiatives.
• Experienced in working with respect for local cultures and the ability to adapt solutions to changing needs and environments.
• Possesses a comprehensive understanding of hotel and resort operations, including rooms, food and beverage, spa, and meeting space flow.
• Has an eye for detail and good analytical skills, capable of making sound business decisions.
• Highly organized, charismatic, and a hands-on team player with exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, CAD, InDesign, Photoshop, or similar design presentation software.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.