Operations Manager

Company Overview

Kinnitty Castle Hotel is a 13th-century castle property in County Offaly, Ireland, set in the Midlands and known for pairing historic character with contemporary hospitality. The hotel is especially recognized as a distinctive wedding and events destination, with ceremonies, receptions, and special occasions hosted in a memorable castle setting. The team places strong emphasis on warm guest care, excellent food and beverage service, and personalized support for events. New joiners become part of a close-knit hospitality environment centered on guest satisfaction and authentic castle experiences.

Role Summary

This is a full-time, on-site Operations Manager position based in Birr. The role carries responsibility for the smooth running of daily hotel operations, with oversight across front office, housekeeping, and food and beverage functions. You will help maintain a consistently high guest experience throughout accommodation, dining, and events.

Key Duties

The Operations Manager will coordinate staffing, scheduling, and team training, while supporting department leaders in meeting service expectations and operational goals. The role also involves reviewing guest comments, handling service issues, managing budgets and cost controls, and making sure the property remains compliant with health, safety, and regulatory standards. In addition, you will support the delivery of weddings and events, working closely with the sales and events team to keep communication clear and execution seamless across departments.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should bring proven experience in hotel or wider hospitality operations management, preferably in a boutique, heritage, or events-led property. Strong leadership ability is important, including experience supervising, encouraging, and developing teams across multiple departments. You should be comfortable with front office procedures, service standards, housekeeping coordination, and food and beverage operations. The role also requires confidence in budget management, cost control, performance analysis, guest relations, conflict resolution, organization, and time management.

Technical and Compliance Requirements

A solid understanding of hospitality health, safety, and hygiene practices is needed, along with a practical approach to compliance and risk management. Familiarity with hotel management systems, booking tools, and standard office software is also expected for reporting and coordination. Because the business supports weddings and special events, flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays is necessary when required by operations.

Preferred Education

A qualification in hospitality management, business, or a related discipline is preferred, although equivalent hands-on experience will also be considered.