Job Description: Adventure Manager / Head of Adventure
About Wildlands
Wildlands is a unique adventure and accommodation development set within 20 acres of mature woodlands, on the N59 overlooking Ballyquirke Lough in Moycullen, Co. Galway. Wildlands opened in August 2020 consists of:
· An adventure park with activities for all ages catering for more than 1000 per day;
· an elevated light-filled events space which holds 200+ overlooking the park;
· a contemporary 150-seater restaurant, the Olive Tree Kitchen;
· 14 luxurious wooden cabins with a birds-eye view of the park, overlooking Ballyquirke Lake (and plans for an additional 15 larger cabins);
· the "Wildlands Shack" retail shop and food outlet; and
· the "Wildlands Wagon", a retro custom-made Volkswagen selling coffee and treats to the public and visitors.
More information is available at or on social media using @Wildlands_Galway
The Role and Responsibilities
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a dynamic and enthusiastic Adventure Manager to join Wildlands. This highly motivated individual will head the Adventure department for Wildlands.
Responsibilities:
· Develop new systems and strategies to ensure safe, successful and
profitable running of the Adventure Department.
· Responsible for the management, recruitment and monitoring of the Adventure team.
· Manage and oversee the Adventure team training, content, delivery standards and team development.
· Responsible for performance management / appraisal of all Adventure team members.
· Provide instruction in specialist areas relevant to the activities offered in Wildlands and keep your qualifications and skills up to date.
· Support adventure opportunities or adventure projects affiliated with Wildlands.
· Responsible for ensuring labour costs of the Adventure department meet budgeted KPIs.
· Responsible for planning appropriate programmes of outdoor activities for guests.
· Ensure Adventure team members adhere to safety regulations, that equipment and facilities are safe and that guests are clearly and professionally instructed in safety procedures.
· Monitor weather and environmental conditions.
· Provide strategic direction and guidance to management to ensure optimal effectiveness of the department.
· Attend and report at management and revenue team meetings.
· Assess risk and act upon any issues arising from this assessment.
· Purchase, check, maintain and prepare activity equipment.
· Deal with the financial management of the department, such as projections, costing, invoicing.
· Ensure up to date records for incident and safety audits, maintenance logs, Adventure team records / training and PPE safety logs are kept.
· Work closely with management in respect of insurance and other statutory requirements as well as working closely with other managers and department.
· Create and foster relationships with key industry experts and organizations, including Failte Ireland and the Adventure Travel Trade Association ATTA.
Report to
The General Manager and owners.
Start Date
September 2025.
Required Education, Skills, and Qualifications
* Qualifications and experience in variety of outdoor activities including at least two full and relevant instructorships such as RCI, CWI or ERCA preferred.
* Up to date First Aid qualification.
* Previous management role in a similar sized business with similar experience.
Desirable
· 3rd level Qualification in a related subject such as business management, outdoor education, leadership, recreation or sports-related course.
Skills
· Excellent leadership and management skills, with a willingness to lead by example.
· Teamworking skills and the ability to motivate and inspire others.
· Group facilitation skills.
· Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to establish a rapport with a range of people.
· Excellent customer service skills.
* Self-motivated individual with a "can do" attitude and a determination to succeed.
· Proven track record in achieving labour cost KPIs and an aptitude for numbers. Ability to manage a budget.
* Project management skills - ability to handle time-sensitive projects and working to deadlines.
* Genuine passion and enthusiasm for the hospitality and / or adventure industry and for providing exceptional service standards.
* Enthusiastic team player with excellent inter-personal skills.
· Decision-making skills and the ability to stay calm in difficult situations.
· Planning and organisational skills.
· Imaginative and innovative approach to work.
· Flexibility to meet business and customer needs.
Hours of Work
Will generally be a 40-hour week but can be higher at peak times (school holidays). The role requires weekend work.
Benefits
Employee discounts
Parking
Bike to Work scheme
Company events
Flexitime
On-site parking
Store discount
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
* Bike to work scheme
* Company events
* Company pension
* Employee assistance program
* Employee discount
* Housing allowance
* On-site parking
* Relocation assistance
Work Location: In person