The Role
My Client who is a boutique 4 star hotel is looking for an exceptional Front Office Manager to join their senior leadership team. This is a pivotal role, second only to the General Manager, with direct reporting to the GM and ownership. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving revenue, maintaining their historic property, and ensuring their guests receive the memorable, personalized service that sets boutique hotels apart.
Key Responsibilities
Revenue Management & Commercial Strategy
- Lead revenue optimization across all channels (OTAs, direct bookings, corporate accounts)
- Implement and monitor dynamic pricing strategies in the competitive Dublin market
- Analyse market trends, competitor pricing, and demand patterns to maximize RevPAR
- Manage relationships with OTA partners and optimize channel distribution
- Oversee revenue recognition and financial reporting for front office operations
- Train and mentor team members on revenue management principles
Operations Leadership
- Oversee all front office operations including reception, concierge, and night audit
- Manage housekeeping department to ensure exceptional cleanliness and presentation standards
- Coordinate with F&B team for seamless guest experiences across all touchpoints
- Develop and implement SOPs for consistent service delivery
- Handle VIP guests and special requirements with discretion and excellence
Facilities & Supplier Management
- Oversee maintenance and preservation of our listed building in compliance with heritage requirements
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and contractors
- Coordinate preventative maintenance programs
- Manage capital projects and renovations while respecting historical integrity
- Ensure health, safety, and compliance standards are exceeded
Guest Experience & Quality
- Champion our high-touch, personalized approach to boutique hospitality
- Handle complex guest situations with diplomacy and creative problem-solving
- Oversee guest feedback management and implement service improvements
- Ensure seamless coordination for weddings, events, boardroom bookings, and Gastrobar enquiries.
- Maintain quality standards that reflect our 4-star boutique positioning
Team Development
- Lead, motivate, and develop the front office and housekeeping teams
- Conduct performance reviews and create development plans
- Foster a culture aligned with Schoolhouse values of honesty, fairness, and loyalty
- Implement training programs for service excellence and operational efficiency
Requirements
Essential
- Minimum 5 years' experience in hotel front office management, preferably in boutique or luxury properties
- Proven track record in revenue management and commercial acumen
- Strong knowledge of Dublin's hospitality market and competitor landscape
- Experience with listed/heritage buildings and facilities management
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain supplier relationships
- Excellence in guest service and complaint resolution
- Proficiency with hotel PMS, channel managers, and revenue management systems
- Strong understanding of Irish employment law and HR best practices
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
Highly Desirable
- Additional language skills (particularly European languages)
- Experience with boutique hotel operations in Ireland
- Knowledge of Dublin's corporate and leisure travel markets
- Wedding and events coordination experience
- Certification in revenue management or hotel operations
Personal Attributes
- Natural leadership presence with ability to inspire teams
- Commercial mindset balanced with genuine passion for hospitality
- Detail-oriented while maintaining strategic perspective
- Calm under pressure with excellent problem-solving abilities
- Cultural sensitivity and ability to connect with diverse guests
- Commitment to preserving the unique character of our historic property
What We Offer
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Performance-based bonus structure
- Opportunity to shape the future of a unique Dublin landmark
- Professional development opportunities
- Staff meal allowances
- Team events and recognition programs
- The chance to work in one of Dublin's most characterful boutique hotels
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