The Hawthorn by Galway Bay | Ireland’s Newest 5-Star Hotel
Galway | Full-Time | Pre-Opening Executive Appointment
Set the standard for refined hospitality at a world-class destination on the Atlantic coast.
About The Hawthorn by Galway Bay
Poised on the edge of Galway Bay where land meets sea, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is positioned to be Ireland’s newest 5-star hotel, a destination designed by nature and refined by you nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way. Surrounded by native hawthorn trees and perched beside an 18-hole championship golf course, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay features 114 meticulously designed suites and rooms, an experiential spa, wellness spaces, destination dining at The Skylark, and panoramic views of the Atlantic coast.
Opening in early 2026, this is a rare chance to craft the food and beverage identity of a landmark hotel from the ground up and contribute to a new chapter in Irish hospitality.
About the Role
We are currently recruiting a dynamic, visionary, and results-driven Director of Food & Beverage to lead all F&B experiences across the hotel. From strategic planning to daily service, this role will oversee the design and delivery of a best-in-class food and beverage programme that reflects The Hawthorn by Galway Bay’s ethos of quiet luxury, storytelling, and attention to detail.
You will work in close collaboration with the Executive Chef and General Manager to build a seamless and distinctive F&B journey across every guest touchpoint, including restaurant, bar, in-room dining, wellness offerings, and curated events.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead all F&B operations from pre-opening through launch, including concept refinement, service flow, and team structure.
* Set and monitor departmental budgets, cost control, pricing strategies, and financial KPIs.
* Ensure each outlet reflects evolving global trends while maintaining authenticity and guest connection.
* Develop and implement SOPs in line with 5-star service standards.
* Ensure every space, from The Skylark restaurant, to the bar and private dining, delivers a signature guest experience.
* Drive the highest levels of quality, consistency, and service choreography across all touchpoints.
* Monitor all equipment, stock levels, and venue readiness to ensure peak operational functionality.
* Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing, guest-centric F&B team.
* Cultivate a strong leadership culture among HODs, supervisors, and service staff.
* Drive guest satisfaction, revenue targets, and brand alignment across all venues.
* Partner with the Executive Chef on guest-facing programming and seasonal experiences.
* Collaborating with the Executive Chef and brand team to elevate the holistic guest experience and reporting to the GM.
* Align with the brand and marketing teams to support storytelling, launch moments, and guest rituals.
* Build strong relationships with suppliers and industry partners to elevate offerings
* Continuously evolve the service offering to exceed guest expectations and industry benchmarks
Ideal Profile
* 5+ years of experience in a senior food and beverage leadership role within a 5-star or luxury hotel environment
* Expertise in service choreography, team leadership, and multi-outlet operations
* Deep understanding of luxury guest service, attention to detail, and international standards of excellence.
* Strong operational knowledge across both food and beverage outlets, events, and in-room dining.
* Demonstrable success in guest satisfaction, team development, and financial performance
* Sound analytical and reporting skills with the ability to manage budgets and track KPIs
* Experience in pre-opening environments and premium concept launches preferred.
* Excellent communication, team leadership, and guest engagement skills.
* Passionate about people, product, and creating extraordinary guest moments.
Compensation & Benefits
A highly competitive salary and benefits package is on offer for the right candidate. This is a senior leadership role with influence, visibility, and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on one of Ireland’s most exciting hotel launches.
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