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
Lead the delivery of exceptional customer service standards across all departments.
Protect and strengthen the store's reputation as a trusted, community-focused retailer.
Act as a visible leader on the shop floor, engaging with customers and staff daily.
Lead, coach, and inspire a large, multi-skilled team.
Develop future leaders by building a pipeline of trainee managers and assistant managers.
Embed accountability, problem-solving behaviours, and a culture of high performance.
Commercial Performance
Deliver on key KPIs, including sales, margin, labour, and waste.
Apply strong rostering discipline to optimise labour efficiency.
Control costs while maintaining excellent shop-floor standards and availability.
Operational Excellence
Ensure flawless execution of promotions, planograms, seasonal changeovers, and product launches.
Drive the adoption of efficient processes and systems (e.g., auto-ordering, stock management).
Oversee daily routines such as opening/closing controls, promo changeovers, and replenishment cycles.
Change Leadership & Innovation
Lead continuous improvement initiatives, embedding new systems and ways of working.
Drive innovation in fresh food offerings and strengthen partnerships with local suppliers.
Encourage the team to embrace change and deliver new ideas that benefit customers.
Compliance & Standards
Maintain the highest standards of food safety, HACCP, and regulatory compliance.
Ensure full compliance with health & safety and all relevant retail legislation.
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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