Location: On site / Kilkenny, Ireland
job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Hospitality | Front of House
Salary: Competitive salary
We have a fantastic opportunity for a full-time experienced Front Office Manager to join our team at the Kilkenny River Court Hotel.
The Role:
The successful candidate will oversee the day-to-day operation of the Front Office Department, ensuring that all guests receive a warm welcome, exceptional service and a professional and efficient experience throughout their stay.
Working closely with the hotel management team, Reservations Department and Group Revenue Manager, the Front Office Manager will play a key role in maximising room occupancy, driving revenue opportunities, developing the front office team and maintaining the highest standards of guest satisfaction.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
- Manage and supervise the day-to-day operations of the Front Office Department, ensuring a professional, welcoming and efficient service at all times.
- Lead, motivate and develop the Front Office team through ongoing coaching, training and performance management.
- Ensure all guests are warmly welcomed upon arrival, anticipating their needs and providing assistance throughout their stay.
- Oversee check-in, check-out, reservations, guest accounts and billing procedures, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Encourage and support the team in maximising room occupancy, achieving the best available rates and identifying opportunities to upsell hotel services and facilities.
- Work closely with the Reservations Department and Group Revenue Manager to optimise room allocations, occupancy and revenue performance.
- Review guest requests and special requirements prior to arrival, ensuring these are communicated to the relevant departments and arrangements are in place.
- Ensure guest enquiries, telephone calls, reservations and requests are handled promptly, courteously and in accordance with Neville Hotels service standards.
- Manage guest feedback and complaints professionally and effectively, taking appropriate action to ensure guest satisfaction.
- Oversee all cash handling, banking, floats, safe management and payment procedures, ensuring accurate reconciliation and compliance with company policies.
- Ensure guest profiles, room allocations, charges and billing information are accurately maintained within the Hotsoft property management system.
- Maintain appropriate security procedures relating to guest belongings, luggage storage, deliveries, room keys and access to hotel facilities.
- Ensure all Front Office team members consistently comply with company policies, standard operating procedures, uniform and personal appearance standards.
- Identify training and development needs, ensuring all team members are fully trained and confident in carrying out their responsibilities.
- Prepare and manage departmental rosters in accordance with business levels, operational requirements and staffing budgets.
- Build strong working relationships with Housekeeping, Reservations, Sales and all other hotel departments to ensure seamless communication and service delivery.
- Maintain a visible management presence within the department, leading by example and promoting a positive, professional working environment.
- Complete additional duties as required to meet the needs of the business.
Experience/Qualifications:
- Previous Front Office supervisory or management experience within a 4-star or 5-star hotel environment.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, support and develop a team.
- A positive, friendly and professional attitude with a genuine passion for hospitality and guest service.
- Fluent English, both written and spoken.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer care skills.
- Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritise tasks, manage a busy department and perform effectively under pressure.
- Good commercial awareness with an understanding of room revenue, occupancy, rate management and upselling opportunities.
- Experience in cash handling, guest billing and financial reconciliation procedures.
- Experience using Hotsoft Property Management System is desirable.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to handle guest concerns professionally and confidently.
- A flexible approach to working hours, including weekends and shifts, in accordance with business requirements.
In Return We Offer Excellent Employee Benefits Including:
- Health Insurance contribution of €500 per annum.
- €300 per annum upskilling allowance via LinkedIn Learning.
- Management suit contribution of €300 per person. T&Cs apply.
- One complimentary individual or family stay in any Neville Hotels property for 2 nights B&B per annum.
- Hotel B&B discounts across the group.
- 20% discount on Bar & Restaurant food in a sister property.
- On-site gym and one free fitness assessment.
- Promotion of Bike to Work Scheme and other commuting incentives.
- Meals during shifts and free on-site tea/coffee.
- Opportunities for career progression.
- Employee recognition programmes.
- Education and training assistance.
- On-site car parking.
All applicants must be eligible to live and work in Ireland full time. You will be asked to provide documented evidence of eligibility.