Retail Operations Manager

The Red Carnation Hotel Collection; Cong; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Award‑winning training and development

Discounted accommodation for staff

Staff appreciation events

Meal on duty

Employee assistance programme

Discounts with local partners

Job summary

Ashford Castle is seeking a Retail Operations Manager for Mrs. Tea's at Ashford Castle. You will lead a luxury retail team within a Forbes Five-Star hotel, delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving sales in a premium setting.

Ideal candidates will have proven retail management experience in upscale hospitality, strong leadership and stock control skills, and a passion for presenting flawless product ranges while maintaining brand standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in luxury hospitality or premium retail environments.
• Proven track record in leading and developing a retail team to achieve targets.
• Strong stock control, admin and merchandising skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver five‑star customer service in line with five‑star standards.
• Oversee daily operations and performance of the retail outlet.
• Lead and support the retail team to achieve sales and service targets.
• Assist guests with purchases, recommendations, and enquiries.
• Manage stock control, replenishment, and stocktakes.
• Monitor sales performance and identify revenue opportunities.
• Ensure cash handling and payment processes meet company procedures.
• Maintain compliance with health, safety and hygiene standards.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal departments to ensure smooth operations.
• Support training, development and performance management.

Skills

Retail management

Leadership

Customer service

Communication

Stock management

Cash handling

Health & safety

Retail systems

Microsoft Office

Tools

Retail POS systems

Microsoft Excel

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