Stadium Catering Operations Manager

Position Overview

Our client is seeking a dynamic, commercially minded Catering Operations Manager to oversee the complete Food & Beverage and hospitality footprint at their iconic new stadium in Galway.

As a key leadership figure, you will manage day-to-day operations, drive match-day and non-match-day event execution, and elevate our reputation as one of Ireland's leading venue management and catering companies.

Reporting to the Group Operations Manager, you will inspire a high-performing team, maximize revenue, and deliver an exceptional, world-class guest experience.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: A minimum of 5 years in senior management directly overseeing a high-volume catering, stadium, or large-scale hospitality operation.
• Flexibility: Complete flexibility regarding working hours, with the ability to work evenings, weekends, and match days aligned with the stadium event calendar.
• Compliance Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of Irish employment legislation (including the Organisation of Working Time Act), liquor licensing laws, and HACCP/food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities Operational Excellence & Event Execution

• Direct total operational control over all stadium Food & Beverage outlets, corporate hospitality suites, public bars, and event spaces.
• Maintain flawless service standards, monitoring product quality and guest satisfaction to ensure a premium match-day and event experience.
• Oversee venue standards, establishing rigid daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning and maintenance schedules across all departments.
• Drive business development by identifying market trends, evolving consumer tastes, and executing innovative promotions.
• Manage vendor and client relationships, negotiating contracts and liaising with key corporate partners to deliver bespoke hospitality solutions.

Financial Acumen & Commercial Management

• Collaborate with the Finance Director to establish, monitor, and achieve ambitious budgets, financial forecasts, and sales targets.
• Optimize labour costs by managing payroll, designing costed staff rosters, and conducting regular reviews with the Financial Controller.
• Control procurement and stock, maintaining optimal inventory levels, minimizing waste, and managing supply chain relationships.
• Maintain precise financial records and administrative documentation in line with company standards.

Leadership & Talent Management

• Lead the recruitment, induction, and retention of a top-tier Front of House hospitality team.
• Drive performance and growth through regular appraisals, structured training, and clear succession planning in partnership with HR.
• Enforce statutory compliance regarding working hours, ensuring rosters strictly adhere to the Organisation of Working Time Act.
• Foster clear communication by leading impactful daily departmental briefings and chairing monthly team meetings.

Compliance, Health & Safety

• Ensure strict adherence to all statutory health and safety, fire safety, employment, and liquor licensing regulations.
• Guarantee comprehensive food safety compliance, ensuring total team awareness of the 14 Allergenic Ingredients and allergen communication workflows.
• Maintain meticulous employee records, tracking statutory training, policy sign-offs, and compliance documentation.
• Manage incident reporting, taking swift, appropriate action on any workplace accidents or hazards.

Core Competencies

• Proven Leadership: An energetic, self-motivated leader who sets a high standard of personal presentation, professionalism, and operational discipline.
• Relationship Builder: Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven ability to engage with premium clients, corporate sponsors, and diverse public audiences.
• Adaptable & Resilient: A natural problem-solver who thrives in high-pressure, fast-paced, and fluid event environments.
• Strategic Thinker: Ability to set, pursue, and achieve annual personal and departmental objectives that support long-term business growth.