We are seeking an Estate Activities Manager to deliver exceptional service in line with Forbes Five-Star and Red Carnation Hotels standards. This role involves overseeing and enhancing estate activities, ensuring they exceed 5-star expectations. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, creativity, and expertise in outdoor pursuits such as equestrian, falconry, fishing, and clay pigeon shooting. The manager will design and deliver memorable, personalised experiences that uphold the brand’s commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction.
Who are we?
Joining Ashford Castle means becoming part of a rich legacy in both Irish history and the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Through its grand stone gates, a royal adventure awaits. This iconic 800-year-old castle, once home to the Guinness family, is renowned as Ireland’s premier hotel destination. Guests are treated to exquisite interiors, world-class cuisine, unique activities, and a luxurious spa. The dedicated team at Ashford Castle ensures every guest experience is exceptional. Voted No. 1 in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2020 for the Top 10 Resort Hotels in the UK and Ireland, and awarded Five Stars by Forbes Travel Guide for five consecutive years (2021–2025). Ashford Castle represents the pinnacle of luxury. The Lodge at Ashford Castle, set on a stunning 350-acre estate overlooking Lough Corrib, combines country house charm with fine dining at Wilde’s Restaurant. It is also one of Ireland's most sought-after wedding destinations, blending warm Irish hospitality with contemporary appeal.
Key Responsibilities of the Estate Activities Manager:
Activity Planning & Execution:
- Design and operate bespoke activities (equestrian, falconry, fishing, clay pigeon shooting) tailored to guest preferences, ensuring 5-star service and memorable experiences.
Guest Experience:
- Create personalised experiences for guests, offering recommendations based on interests and skill levels, and refine offerings based on feedback.
Team Leadership:
- Lead and train a team of activity specialists, ensuring high standards of instruction and service while fostering a positive, collaborative environment.
Quality Assurance & Safety:
- Ensure activities meet safety standards and regulations, maintaining equipment in top condition and monitoring compliance with local rules.
Guest Relations:
- Serve as the main point of contact for guests, managing reservations, building relationships, and integrating activities into the overall guest experience.
Marketing & Promotion:
- Collaborate with Sales & Marketing to promote activities, contributing to promotional materials and social media content.
Operational Management:
- Oversee budgets, schedules, and staffing levels, ensuring resources are efficiently allocated while maintaining high standards.
Occasional Duties:
- Attend meetings, document decisions, and carry out other reasonable management requests.
The ideal candidate for the Estate Activities Manager position should:
- Effectively manage the estate operations in collaboration with the Managing Director/Hotel Manager.
- Exhibit strong communication and leadership skills.
- Lead and train the team, ensuring consistent standards and procedures.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, hotel policies, and procedures.
- Prioritise tasks effectively and meet deadlines.
- Maintain excellent organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrate punctuality and a strong attendance record.
- Foster innovation and continuous improvement.
- Meet estate budgets and payroll targets.
- Display exceptional guest awareness, offering a friendly and attentive experience that exceeds expectations.
- Show enthusiasm, passion, and dedication in their role.
- Serve as a brand ambassador, embodying the company’s values.
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
Join us in this incredible new opportunity!
We are an equal opportunities employer. The successful candidate must also be legally eligible to work in Ireland