Overview
A large landmark and award-winning grocery supermarket in West Cork is seeking an experienced Head of Operations to lead day-to-day operations, drive commercial performance, and strengthen innovation with a strong focus on fresh and prepared foods.
Following a multi-million-euro investment and full store revamp, this supermarket has been positioned as a flagship within its group, recognised for both excellence and community focus. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a high-performing retail environment, balance commercial results with people development, and make a real impact on the local community.
Responsibilities
The Head of Operations will play a pivotal role in shaping the store's ongoing success. Core responsibilities include:
* Customer & Community
o Lead the delivery of exceptional customer service standards across all departments.
o Protect and strengthen the store's reputation as a trusted, community-focused retailer.
o Act as a visible leader on the shop floor, engaging with customers and staff daily.
o Lead, coach, and inspire a large, multi-skilled team.
o Develop future leaders by building a pipeline of trainee managers and assistant managers.
o Embed accountability, problem-solving behaviours, and a culture of high performance.
* Commercial Performance
o Deliver on key KPIs, including sales, margin, labour, and waste.
o Apply strong rostering discipline to optimise labour efficiency.
o Control costs while maintaining excellent shop-floor standards and availability.
* Operational Excellence
o Ensure flawless execution of promotions, planograms, seasonal changeovers, and product launches.
o Drive the adoption of efficient processes and systems (e.g., auto-ordering, stock management).
o Oversee daily routines such as opening/closing controls, promo changeovers, and replenishment cycles.
* Change Leadership & Innovation
o Lead continuous improvement initiatives, embedding new systems and ways of working.
o Drive innovation in fresh food offerings and strengthen partnerships with local suppliers.
o Encourage the team to embrace change and deliver new ideas that benefit customers.
* Compliance & Standards
o Maintain the highest standards of food safety, HACCP, and regulatory compliance.
o Ensure full compliance with health & safety and all relevant retail legislation.
o Regularly audit processes to guarantee best practice across all departments.
Experience & Qualifications
Experience: We are seeking an ambitious and commercially driven retail leader who will thrive in a dynamic, community-focused environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
* Significant experience as a Store Manager/Operations Manager/Head of Operations (or equivalent senior role) in high-turnover grocery retail with a track record of consistently delivering strong commercial results.
Fresh Food Expertise
* In-depth knowledge of fresh categories (produce, meat/fish, bakery, deli).
* Experience driving product innovation and maintaining high fresh food standards.
Operational Excellence
* Expertise in promotions, planograms, and seasonal trading.
* Strong rostering discipline and labour optimisation experience.
* Ability to embed simple, efficient systems that enhance consistency and control.
* Demonstrated success in leading and developing large teams.
* Experience coaching charge-hands and assistant managers into future leaders.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and engage staff.
Commercial Acumen
* Results-oriented with a focus on achieving and exceeding KPIs.
* Skilled at balancing commercial performance with long-term people and community focus.
* Experience leading through organisational or operational change.
* Ability to embed new systems and drive a culture of continuous improvement.
Qualifications (desirable, not essential):
What’s on Offer
* Performance-related bonus
* Accommodation provided (optional) in a newly refurbished 2-bedroom apartment
If you are a passionate retail leader ready for this exciting challenge, please apply to this role in strict confidence or contact Ashling Edwards in HRM Search Partners on +353868480808
Employment details
* Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: General Business, Management, and Strategy/Planning
* Industries: Retail Health and Personal Care Products
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