Head of Operations – Racecourse & Events

Leopardstown Racecourse; Dublin; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Leopardstown Racecourse is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations, ensuring safe, cost-effective raceday and event experiences for customers, participants and staff. You will be a core member of the Leadership Team, driving operational excellence and continuous improvement across the campus.

The role requires strong operational leadership, people management, and a commitment to delivering world-class customer experiences on racedays and events.

Qualifications

• Minimum of four years' management experience in a venue, events, operations or related environment.
• Experience managing complex operations with multiple stakeholders and service providers.
• Strong leadership with proven staff development capabilities.
• Track record delivering exceptional customer experiences in fast-paced settings.
• Solid understanding of health and safety legislation and best practice.
• Excellent planning and project management with strong attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills across levels and functions.
• Financial awareness with experience managing budgets and costs.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operation to deliver high-quality raceday and event experiences, efficiently and cost effectively.
• Coordinate and oversee all raceday operations and non-raceday events from planning to post-event review.
• Deliver race day logistics with third-party providers, facilities, staffing and support services.
• Liaise with IHRB and industry stakeholders to ensure compliance with racing and operational requirements.
• Develop and implement operational plans, processes and procedures to support the racecourse calendar.
• Line manage the Operations Executive and recruit/deploy casual raceday staff with appropriate readiness.
• Foster accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement and customer focus across teams.
• Support Sales and Marketing by ensuring operational delivery aligns with customer promises.

Skills

People leadership

Stakeholder management

Operations management

Health & safety

Budgeting & cost control

Staffing & scheduling

Customer service

Job description

Leopardstown Racecourse is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations, ensuring safe, cost-effective raceday and event experiences for customers, participants and staff. You will be a core member of the Leadership Team, driving operational excellence and continuous improvement across the campus.

The role requires strong operational leadership, people management, and a commitment to delivering world-class customer experiences on racedays and events.