Food & Beverage Manager / Assistant General Manager
Lead, Grow, and Make Your Mark at The Schoolhouse Hotel
The Schoolhouse Hotel isn't your typical Dublin hotel — and this isn't your typical F&B management role.
Since 1998, we've built something special in Ballsbridge: a 4-star boutique hotel and gastrobar where warmth isn't just something we offer guests, it's how we treat each other. We're a family-run business with 31 character-filled bedrooms, a canal-side setting that stops people in their tracks, and a kitchen led by Head Chef François Grelet who brings real passion to every plate.
We're not pretentious. We're not corporate. We're a close team who genuinely love what we do — and we're looking for someone who feels the same.
About the Role
This is a senior leadership position reporting directly to our General Manager and Owner, with real scope to shape how we do things. You'll take ownership of our food and beverage operations — leading a talented team, driving standards, and helping us become even better at what we do.
We're looking for someone who wants autonomy, not micromanagement. Someone ready to bring ideas, take initiative, and grow with us. If you're ambitious and looking for a role where your contribution is visible and valued, this could be the perfect next step in your career.
What You'll Do
Lead & Inspire
* Build, develop, and motivate our F&B team — floor and bar staff alike
* Create rosters and training programmes that bring out the best in people
* Foster a positive, supportive team culture where everyone can thrive
* Lead with empathy, resilience, and a genuine interest in helping others grow
Deliver Exceptional Experiences
* Set the standard for warm, professional service through your own example
* Ensure every guest feels genuinely welcomed and well looked after
* Monitor guest feedback across TripAdvisor, Google, and OpenTable — and act on it
* Handle concerns with care, turning moments of friction into opportunities to shine
Run a Tight Ship
* Oversee daily F&B operations, from service flow to stock control
* Manage budgets, inventory, ordering, and deliveries with a sharp eye on costs
* Maintain impeccable hygiene and presentation standards throughout
Stay Compliant & Professional
* Ensure we meet all food safety, health & safety, and licensing requirements
* Uphold Irish employment law and manage tips in line with the Payment of Wages (Tips and Gratuities) Act 2022
* Keep accurate records and reporting to support the wider management team
Collaborate & Communicate
* Work closely with our kitchen, front office, housekeeping, and events teams
* Contribute to management meetings and hotel-wide initiatives
* Be hands-on — this is a role where you lead by doing, not just directing
What We're Looking For
Experience
* At least 3 years in a Bar Manager, Restaurant Supervisor, or Assistant Manager role — ideally in a busy gastrobar, boutique hotel, or fine dining setting
* A proven track record of building and developing strong teams
* Solid understanding of food safety, health & safety, and basic HR/employment legislation
Useful (But Not Essential)
* Experience with systems like OpenTable, Volante, Timepoint, or similar
* Background in stock control and cost management
* Events management experience
* Familiarity with licensing laws and compliance
Who You Are
* Genuinely passionate about hospitality, food, and drink
* A natural leader — confident but humble, calm under pressure
* Excellent communicator who builds real rapport with team and guests alike
* Detail-oriented, reliable, and committed to high standards
* Comfortable with autonomy and ready to take ownership
What's In It For You
* A role with real influence
— shape our F&B culture and standards, not just maintain them
* Career progression
— direct line to the General Manager with genuine scope to grow
* A workplace that values you
— we're a small team, so your contribution is seen and appreciated
* Competitive package
including paid holidays, performance bonuses, staff discounts, and ongoing training
* A beautiful place to work
— historic building, canal views, and food you'll actually want to eat
The Practical Details
* Position:
Full-time, permanent
* Hours:
Flexible, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays (exact schedule agreed during onboarding)
* Location:
Schoolhouse Hotel, Northumberland Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
* Reports to:
General Manager/Owner
* Probation:
6 months