Retail Operations Manager

The Red Carnation Hotel Collection; Ashford; On-site; EUR 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training & development

Discounted accommodation

Staff events

Local business discounts

Subsidised accommodation

Meals on duty

Dry cleaning of work attire

Refer-a-friend bonus

Volunteer days

Holiday entitlement 25 days+

Recognition incentives

Employee assistance programme

Job summary

Mrs. Tea's at Ashford Castle, part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, seeks an enthusiastic Retail Operations Manager to lead the luxury retail outlet.

Deliver five-star service, manage daily operations, supervise a small team, and drive sales while maintaining brand standards. The role requires retail management experience in premium settings, strong leadership, stock control, cash handling, and a passion for guest experiences.

Qualifications

• Experience in luxury retail or premium hospitality is desirable.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional five-star service in the retail outlet.
• Oversee daily operations and performance of the retail outlet.
• Lead and support the retail team to achieve sales targets and service standards.
• Assist guests with purchases, recommendations and enquiries.
• Manage stock, merchandising, replenishment and stocktakes.
• Monitor sales performance and identify revenue opportunities.
• Handle cash and payment processes per company procedures.
• Ensure food, beverage and retail offerings meet brand standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant retail environment.
• Implement and uphold departmental SOPs and policies.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams for smooth operations.
• Support training, development and performance management of staff.

Job description

We are currently recruiting for an enthusiastic and dedicated Retail Operations Manager to join our team at Mrs. Tea's at Ashford Castle.

Who are we?

Join Ashford Castle and become part of a legendary story. As Ireland's only double Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa, Ashford Castle is a true icon of Irish heritage and a proud member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Beyond its grand stone gates lies an unforgettable experience. Once home to the Guinness family, this 800-year-old castle offers award-winning luxury, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, and a passionate team dedicated to creating unforgettable moments. Voted No. 1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland by Travel + Leisure and proud to have retained the Forbes Five-Star award in 2025.

Key responsibilities of the Retail Operations Manager will include:

• Deliver exceptional customer service in line with five-star standards.
• Oversee the daily operations and performance of the retail outlet.
• Lead and support the retail team to achieve sales and service targets.
• Assist guests with purchases, product recommendations, and enquiries.
• Manage stock control, merchandising, replenishment, and stocktakes.
• Monitor sales performance and identify revenue opportunities.
• Manage cash handling and payment processes in line with company procedures.
• Ensure food, beverage, and retail offerings meet brand standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant retail environment.
• Implement and uphold departmental SOPs, policies, and procedures.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal departments to ensure smooth operations.
• Support employee training, development, and performance management.

The ideal candidate for the Retail Operations Manager position should:

• Have previous retail management or supervisory experience, ideally within a luxury hospitality or premium retail environment.
• Be passionate about delivering exceptional customer service and creating memorable guest experiences.
• Possess strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and manage a high-performing team.
• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrate strong commercial awareness with a proven ability to drive sales and achieve targets.
• Be highly organised, with strong stock management and administrative skills.
• Have experience in cash handling, reporting, and financial controls.
• Be proactive, solution-focused, and confident in resolving customer queries and concerns.
• Maintain high standards of presentation, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Be flexible and adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Have a good understanding of health, safety, and hygiene regulations.
• Be proficient in retail systems and Microsoft Office applications.

What's in it for you?

• Professional, award winning training and development opportunities
• Discounted accommodation rates with Red Carnation Hotel Collection
• Annual Staff Appreciation Party and other Employee Recognition Events
• Discounted rates with many local businesses and third party service providers (including Estate Activities)
• Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability)
• Free meals on duty
• Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire
• Recommend friend and family bonus scheme
• Two paid volunteering days each year
• Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 25 days
• Hotel based recognition incentives
• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme