Spa Operations Manager – Luxury Hotel & Spa
We are proud to announce an exciting opportunity for a goal-oriented and dynamic Spa Operations Manager to join the leadership team at The Spa at Ashford Castle, Ireland's only Forbes Five-Star Spa.
Reporting to and working closely with the Director of Spa & Wellness, Joanna Moran, this operationally focused role is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Spa experience, with particular attention to exceptional service delivery, team performance, and service and product inventory. This is a key leadership position within one of Ireland's most prestigious luxury destinations.
Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland.
Employment type: Full-Time.
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends & Bank Holidays).
Who Are We?
As Ireland's only double Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa, Ashford Castle is a true icon of Irish heritage and a proud member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Once home to the Guinness family, this legendary 800-year-old castle offers award-winning luxury, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, and a passionate team dedicated to creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Ashford Castle was voted No. 1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland by Travel + Leisure and proudly retained its Forbes Five-Star award in 2025.
The Role – Spa Operations Manager:
This is a hands-on, operations-focused role with accountability for the daily running of the Spa. Key areas of responsibility include:
* Delivering exceptional guest experiences in line with Forbes Five-Star standards.
* Managing team performance, engagement, and productivity to the highest luxury standards.
* Driving team development through structured training and coaching.
* Managing sales performance, budgets, and supporting marketing initiatives.
* Ensuring clear, effective communication across all Spa operations.
Key Responsibilities:
* Ensure every guest receives the highest levels of personalised care and attention, in line with Forbes Five-Star and Red Carnation standards.
* Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and performance appraisals with team members.
* Champion "little touches" that consistently exceed guest expectations.
* Maintain exceptional service standards through training, motivation, and operational controls.
* Ensure compliance with Red Carnation Top 12 Service Standards, employment terms, and operational procedures.
* Support recruitment by interviewing and hiring team members with the skills required to meet business needs.
* Monitor service and product inventory to support smooth daily operations.
What We Are Looking For:
* A dynamic and goal-driven leader with a passion for luxury wellness and guest experience.
* Proven experience in a Spa Operations, Assistant Spa Manager, or similar leadership role.
* Strong people management, coaching, and performance management skills.
* Excellent organisational and communication abilities.
* Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets, sales, or performance metrics.
* Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, luxury environment.
* Fluent written and spoken English.
* Legal eligibility to work in Ireland.
What's in It for You:
* Professional, award-winning training and development opportunities.
* Discounted accommodation across the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.
* Annual Staff Appreciation Party and employee recognition events.
* Discounted rates with local businesses and third-party service providers.
* Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability).
* Free meals on duty.
* Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire.
* Friend and family referral bonus scheme.
* Two paid volunteering days each year.
* Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 25 days.
* Hotel-based recognition incentives.
* Free access to the Employee Assistance Programme.
Join us in this incredible opportunity.
Red Carnation Hotels is an Equal Opportunities Employer. The successful candidate must be legally eligible to work in Ireland.
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