Operations & Guest Experience Manager
Job Title: Operations & Guest Experience Manager
Location: Donegal Manor, Donegal Town
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: €42,000 Base + €3,000 Performance Bonus
Reports to: Owners
The Opportunity
Donegal Manor is entering a new phase as the owners step back from day-to-day involvement and the property transitions to a professionally managed model.
We are seeking a hands-on Operations & Guest Experience Manager who will be the face of the guesthouse and the operational anchor of the business. This is a leadership role for someone who thrives in a warm, people-focused, boutique hospitality environment.
You will oversee daily operations, ensure exceptional guest experience, lead the small team, and help drive group business during the quieter months. This is not a desk job. It is for someone who loves interaction, takes pride in standards, and enjoys a varied day where no two days look the same.
A Two-Speed Role
High Season (May–September): Operations First
You are the operational anchor. This requires active presence during evenings and weekends. You are managing:
* Guest experience from arrival to departure.
* Breakfast service quality and flow.
* Housekeeping coordination and standards.
* Day-to-day problem solving and maintaining the warm atmosphere guests expect.
Low Season (October–April): Business Development Focus
The property operates Thurs–Sun for individuals but remains available 7 days for groups. Your focus shifts to:
* Responding to group enquiries (Golf, Weddings, Corporate).
* Converting enquiries into bookings.
* Coordinating logistics for group itineraries.
* This does not require a pricing strategy (handled externally), just organised, personable follow-through.
Key Responsibilities
1. Guest Experience & Reputation
* Act as the main point of contact for guests throughout their stay.
* Ensure a welcoming, polished environment in all public areas.
* Reputation Management: actively monitor and respond to reviews on Google,, and TripAdvisor.
* Handle issues professionally and turn challenges into positive experiences (Service Recovery).
2. Operations & F&B Oversight
* Chef Management: Oversee the breakfast chef/cook, ensuring food quality and service flow.
* Compliance: You hold responsibility for Food Safety (HACCP) records, fire safety logs, and general hygiene standards.
* Housekeeping: Supervise the team, inspect rooms daily, and manage rosters to ensure high standards.
* Stock Control: Manage ordering and supplier relationships to ensure margin control.
3. Team Leadership
* Schedule, manage, and support hospitality and housekeeping staff.
* Train seasonal staff on guesthouse standards.
* Maintain a positive, collaborative team culture.
* Lead from the front: Assist where needed during peak periods (this is a hands-on role).
4. Event Coordination & Sales (Winter Focus)
* Build and maintain relationships with golf tour operators, wedding planners, and corporate organisers.
* Event Logistics: Manage pre-arrival in coordination (transport, menus, external vendors) for group stays.
* Maintain clear and accurate group calendars.
5. Property & Systems
* Use our property management system (Mews) confidently.
* Manage availability, guest messaging, payments, and daily admin.
* Handle basic Xero inputs (receipts, invoices, daily reconciliation).
The Ideal Candidate
* Hospitality-led: Warm, intuitive, and calm under pressure. You enjoy connecting with people.
* Flexible: You accept that high-season hospitality requires evening and weekend work, while enjoying the quieter administrative rhythm in winter.
* Operationally strong: You naturally organise, prioritise, and maintain high standards.
* Commercially aware: Confident speaking to operators and converting enquiries.
* Tech savvy: Comfortable using Mews, OTAs, messaging tools, and basic finance systems.
Compensation & Benefits
* €42,000 base salary
* €3,000 annual performance bonus (Tied to Review Scores, Standards Audits, and Group Sales).
* Staff meals during shifts.
* Opportunities for training and professional development.
* Friends & Family discounted rates.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: €42,000.00-€45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* On-site parking
Application question(s):
* **IMPORTANT** Submissions must be made through the application form found on this link:
Work authorisation:
* Ireland (required)
Work Location: In person