Food & Beverage Operations Manager

September 17, 2024

Lough Rea Hotel and Spa

Loughrea

FULL TIME & OTHER

The Role:
Loughrea Hotel & Spa, part of the Só Hotel Group, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Food and Beverage Operations Manager to join their award-winning team. This pivotal role is responsible for driving exceptional standards in food and beverage service across the Lir Bar and Abbey Restaurant. The successful candidate will be instrumental in promoting exceptional customer service, increasing revenue by proactively building a local customer base, delivering target gross profit margins, and supporting other areas of the hotel as a senior member of the management team.
Reporting to:
The Food & Beverage Operations Manager will report to the General Manager.
Key Responsibilities include:
1. Driving Food and Beverage Standards

Lead and manage all operations within the Lir Bar and Abbey Restaurant, ensuring the highest standards of food and beverage service are consistently delivered.
Develop and implement service standards, procedures, and policies in line with the Só Hotel Group’s brand and customer expectations.
Conduct regular staff training and performance evaluations to maintain service excellence.
Monitor and review customer feedback, addressing any issues promptly and ensuring continuous improvement.

2. Promoting Exceptional Customer Service

Foster a culture of outstanding customer service within the food and beverage team, ensuring every guest experience is memorable.
Act as a role model for staff, demonstrating a hands-on approach and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations.
Address and resolve customer complaints and issues effectively, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Increasing Revenue and Building a Local Customer Base

Develop and execute strategic initiatives to increase footfall and revenue in the Lir Bar and Abbey Restaurant.
Identify and leverage opportunities to build a loyal local customer base, including organising events, promotions, and partnerships with local businesses.
Analyze sales and revenue data to identify trends and areas for improvement, implementing actions to capitalize on opportunities.
Collaborate with the Chef to create and update menus, ensuring a variety of high-quality food and beverage offerings.

4. Delivering Target Gross Profit Margins

Manage all aspects of beverage cost control, including purchasing, inventory management, and waste reduction.
Working closely with the kitchen management team to ensure that waste is kept to an minimum.
Work closely with the culinary team to develop menus that meet customer expectations while optimizing cost efficiency.
Ensure accurate and timely reporting of financial performance, with a focus on achieving and exceeding gross profit margin targets.
Prepare rosters on a weekly basis to ensure that there is sufficient staff to service business levels while achieving departmental wage percentage targets.

5. Supporting Hotel Operations as a Senior Management Team Member

Collaborate with other department heads to ensure seamless hotel operations and a unified guest experience.
Participate in senior management meetings, contributing to the overall strategic direction of the hotel.
Assist in other areas of the hotel as needed, demonstrating flexibility and a team-oriented approach.
Carry out duty management shifts as required and to provide support as required in other areas of the property.
Lead and motivate the food and beverage team, fostering a positive work environment and promoting professional development.

6. Other Duties

Reflect and enhance the Company’s mission statement and objectives in all activities.
Have a thorough knowledge of Company Policy and Procedures as outlined in the Team Member Handbook and your department Standard Operating Procedures.
Ensure the highest level of hygiene throughout the food and beverage function at all times.
Carry out any other duties as requested by management.

Qualifications and Experience:

A minimum of 2 years of experience in a food and beverage management role, preferably in a 4-star hotel setting.
Proven track record of driving high standards in food and beverage service.
Strong financial acumen with experience in cost control, budgeting, and revenue generation.
Excellent leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
Outstanding customer service skills with a focus on creating memorable guest experiences.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of local market trends and the ability to capitalise on them.