The Director of Development – Benelux plays a pivotal role in driving Leonardo Hotels’ expansion strategy across Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
This senior role is responsible for identifying, evaluating, structuring, and closing hotel development, conversion, and repositioning opportunities in line with the Group’s growth ambitions. The position requires strong commercial judgement, real estate expertise, financial sophistication, and the ability to build and manage senior-level relationships across a complex, mature hospitality market.
Main tasks
Development & Growth Strategy
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Proactively source new hotel opportunities (existing assets, conversions, repositionings, and new developments) across the Benelux region.
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Focus on urban and high-demand locations aligned with Leonardo Hotels’ target segments: corporate, MICE, leisure, and bleisure.
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Build, manage, and prioritise a robust development pipeline in line with agreed growth targets.
Market Intelligence & Strategic Positioning
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Analyse market fundamentals including demand drivers, RevPAR performance, competitive landscape, pipeline supply, and destination growth trends.
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Identify strategic opportunities in both core cities and high-potential secondary markets.
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Provide regular insights and recommendations to senior leadership on market dynamics and competitive positioning.
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Ensure brand alignment by matching each opportunity to the appropriate Leonardo brand and operational model.
Deal Origination & Execution
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Lead the full deal lifecycle from origination through to contract execution.
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Conduct feasibility studies, including financial modelling, cash flow projections, and return analyses.
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Structure and negotiate commercial terms with property owners, developers, asset managers, and institutional investors.
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Prepare investment memoranda, development proposals, and brand presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
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Oversee and support due diligence processes (technical, legal, financial, and operational).
Relationship Management - Develop and maintain strong relationships with:
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Property owners and developers
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Real estate funds and institutional investors
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Local brokers and advisory firms
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Banking partners and hospitality consultants
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Represent Leonardo Hotels at industry events and networking platforms within the Benelux region.
Internal Coordination & Governance
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Work closely with operations, technical services, finance, legal, and brand teams to ensure feasibility and alignment.
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Present business cases to senior management and support internal approval processes.
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Ensure a smooth transition from signed deal to pre-opening and operational handover, safeguarding brand standards and commercial objectives.
LEONARDO HOTELS BENELUX
Leonardo Hotels Benelux is part of the Leonardo Hotels Group and manages a portfolio of 29 hotels across the Netherlands and Belgium.
At Leonardo Hotels, we believe in growing together, making an impact, and creating meaningful connections. Our colleagues stay with us for an average of four years - something we’re very proud of - thanks to the opportunities we offer to develop and grow.
You’ll be working closely with the marketing team, gaining exposure to real campaigns and strategies within an international hospitality brand.
Skills & Qualities
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Extensive experience in hospitality development, hotel real estate, or advisory within the Benelux region.
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Strong understanding of local hotel market dynamics, ownership structures, and investment frameworks.
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Bachelor’s degree in Business, Real Estate, Hospitality, Finance, or related field; MBA is a plus.
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Proven track record in negotiating and closing hotel management and/or lease agreements.
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Advanced financial modelling and feasibility analysis capabilities.
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In-depth knowledge of: Hotel P&L structures, Lease and management agreements, Conversion and repositioning strategies
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Excellent communication and presentation skills in English, Dutch and French.
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Your home based is in The Netherlands is a must
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Commercially driven, entrepreneurial, and results-oriented mindset.
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Comfortable operating in an international, matrix organisation.
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Willingness to travel regularly within the Benelux region.
What do we offer?
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Bonus per deal
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Car lease option
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Indicative monthly gross salary for candidates aged 20 and over
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Travel allowance from 10 km commuting distance
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Access to training through development programs
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Opportunities for personal growth and career development
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Access to purchase discounted products such as an e-bike or phone with an average tax benefit of 40% through FiscFree
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Access to a global employee discount program
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A unique experience including an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast during your “Know Where You Work” moment
Important Notes
Deadline of application is until 14 April 2026
Fluency in Dutch, French and English languages is a MUST
JOIN US FOR A COFFEE SOON?
Let us know if you would like to strengthen our team! We look forward to receiving your motivation and CV. You can apply via the application form. Questions? Contact our recruitment department: [email protected]
