The Capital Projects Associate, based in Dallas, Texas, will support the SVP of Capital Management by providing analytical insights, making recommendations, and supplying approvals for capital projects related to improving hotel assets. This role focuses on evaluating capital expenditures across the portfolio of owned properties, including scopes related to building systems and infrastructure upgrades, while partnering with project management teams and property engineers to ensure successful implementation. Key Responsibilities:
- Work closely with Ashford Capital Management, Ashford Asset Management, and hotel managers to develop annual property capital budgets by evaluating proposal, prioritizing capital projects through data-driven recommendations, and preventative maintenance initiatives
- Collect and analyze relevant data to support project approvals, including scope definition, budgeting, financial impact assessments (e.g. ongoing operational costs, energy savings, ROI), and risk evaluations
- Partner with project managers to ensure appropriate scope is developed for capital projects, and the internal processes are adhered to (e.g. multiple bids, budget change requests, etc.)
- Manage the Ashford portfolio's energy contracts, liaison with third party energy brokers and provide recommendations to the SVP of Capital Management on strategy
- Manage the execution and continuous improvement of Ashford's Preventative Maintenance Program, including tracking of completed work by property as well as process improvement
- Manage the engagement of third parties to conduct environmental studies and property inspections as it relates to acquisitions or refinancing of assets
- Identify opportunities for energy efficiency and other ROI-driven projects, gathering and presenting data to support investment decisions
- Provide technical guidance and support to the asset management team and operational teams as needed
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field
- Minimum 3+ years of experience in capital plan development or asset management within a corporate environment, preferably in hospitality or related industries
- Knowledge of building trades to include electrical, mechanical, HVAC, plumbing and general building infrastructure is preferred
- Experience with cost estimating, budget control, field operations and administration
- Knowledge of energy market trends and experience developing long-term energy savings strategies preferred
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams)
- Ability to travel up to 30% of the time if needed
- Residency in Dallas, Texas required