Construction Project Manager - Luxury Eco-Retreat Development Hu Azores Retreat Center | São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
About the Project Join the development of Hu, a groundbreaking eco-retreat center in the breathtaking Azores archipelago. This visionary project combines cutting-edge sustainable design with ancient wisdom traditions, creating a transformative wellness destination that will serve as a global catalyst for consciousness and healing. Located on São Miguel Island, Hu represents the intersection of luxury hospitality, environmental stewardship, and human potential. We break ground Spring 2026.
The Opportunity We are seeking an exceptional Construction Project Manager with advanced experience to lead the physical realization of this extraordinary vision. This role demands exceptional financial acumen and budgetary oversight skills, as you will be responsible for the stewardship of a significant capital investment while maintaining the highest standards of construction quality and project integrity, maintaining the aesthetic vision of this new concept.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Budgetary Control:
* Develop, manage, and continuously monitor the comprehensive construction budget across all project phases
* Create detailed cost breakdowns by trade, phase, and timeline with rigorous tracking systems
* Implement robust financial controls and approval processes for all expenditures
* Conduct weekly budget reviews and provide detailed variance analysis with corrective action plans
* Manage cash flow projections and coordinate payment schedules with finance team
* Track and report on budget performance with real-time dashboards and monthly financial summaries
* Oversee vendor payment processing, invoice verification, and budget reconciliation
* Develop and maintain contingency fund allocation and tracking protocols
* Provide executive leadership with comprehensive financial reporting and forecasting
Project Management:
* Oversee all phases of construction for a complex, multi-building retreat center incorporating sustainable and innovative design elements
* Manage contractor relationships, ensuring cost-effective delivery aligned with budget constraints and project vision
* Coordinate with architects, engineers, and specialty consultants while maintaining rigorous cost controls
* Ensure compliance with Portuguese building codes and environmental regulations within established budget parameters
* Develop and maintain detailed project schedules integrated with budget milestones and payment schedules
* Navigate unique challenges of island construction, including cost optimization for logistics and material sourcing
* Integrate specialized wellness amenities while adhering to strict budgetary guidelines for each component
* Lead regular progress meetings with detailed budget reporting to stakeholders
* Manage comprehensive risk assessment including financial risk mitigation strategies
Required Qualifications
* Minimum 7-10 years of construction project management experience with demonstrated budget management success
* Proven track record managing construction budgets of $5M+ with documented cost control achievements
* Advanced proficiency in construction financial management software
* Experience developing and managing complex budgets across multiple trades, phases, and timelines
* Strong background in luxury hospitality or wellness facility construction with budget accountability
* Experience with sustainable/eco-friendly building practices and their associated cost implications
* Expertise in international construction projects with currency and cost management considerations
* Professional certifications in project management AND construction financial management preferred
* Fluency in English required; Portuguese language skills highly preferred
Preferred Experience
* Previous work with luxury resort brands with demonstrated success in budget management and cost optimization
* Experience implementing cost-saving initiatives while maintaining luxury standards
* Background in value engineering and cost-benefit analysis for construction projects
* Track record of delivering projects on or under budget in challenging or remote locations
* Experience with specialty construction budgeting for wellness facilities and unique architectural elements
* Expertise in international project budgeting including currency hedging and cost escalation management
Personal Qualities We Value
* Exceptional attention to financial detail with ability to balance cost consciousness with visionary goals
* Strong analytical mindset with ability to identify cost optimization opportunities
* Proven ability to make tough budgetary decisions while maintaining project integrity
* Excellent communication skills for presenting complex financial information to stakeholders
* Personal commitment to responsible stewardship of resources and sustainable practices
* Creative problem-solving abilities particularly related to cost-effective solutions
* Demonstrated ability to maintain budget discipline while supporting transformative design concepts
What We Offer
* Opportunity to demonstrate exceptional financial stewardship on a pioneering consciousness-focused project
* Competitive compensation package with performance incentives tied to budget management success
* Potential for performance bonuses based on budget delivery and cost optimization achievements
* Unique professional experience combining luxury construction with responsible financial management
* Collaboration with world-class team while maintaining fiduciary responsibility
* Potential for ongoing involvement with Hu's future international projects based on budget performance
Location & Logistics This position is based in São Miguel, Azores, with the expectation of full-time on-site presence during active construction phases. Relocation assistance available for the right candidate. Some of the work can be remotely before construction start but we would like the candidate to relocate to Azores.
If you are a seasoned construction professional with exceptional budget management skills who resonates with our mission of creating transformative spaces through responsible financial stewardship, we invite you to join this extraordinary project.
To Apply Please submit your resume, portfolio of relevant projects with detailed budget performance metrics, and a brief letter explaining your approach to construction budget management and alignment with Hu's vision.
Hu is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity, or experience.
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