Deputy General Manager – Hillyard House Hotel
Location: Castlewellan, Northern Ireland
Reports to: General Manager
Contract Type: Full-time
Salary: £45000 plus benefits
About Hillyard House
Hillyard House Hotel is a boutique hotel renowned for its warm hospitality, elegant accommodation, and exceptional guest experiences. Nestled in the scenic surroundings of Castlewellan, the hotel prides itself on combining traditional charm with modern comforts, creating a memorable stay for all guests. Hillyard House is part of the Eight 5 Zero operating Hillyard House, Hillyard Mews and Corner House bar as well as Nisa Rostrevor, Fresh Food Centre Warrenpoint and Eco-store Castlewellan.
Role Overview
We need the next aspiring General Manager. We will give you the tools to grow quickly into a Hotel General Manager. The Deputy General Manager will support the General Manager in overseeing the daily operations of Hillyard House Hotel, ensuring exceptional guest service, operational efficiency, and team development. This is a pivotal leadership role requiring both strategic insight and hands-on management. This is not a 9-5 office role, each day will be different ensuring a flexible approach to management.
Key Responsibilities
* Operational Leadership: Assist the General Manager in managing all aspects of hotel operations, including front desk, housekeeping, food & beverage and kitchen.
* Team Management: Lead, motivate, and mentor staff across departments to deliver outstanding service standards.
* Guest Experience: Ensure that all guests receive personalised, high-quality service, promptly addressing feedback and maintaining high satisfaction levels.
* Financial Oversight: Support budget management, revenue optimisation, cost control, and financial reporting.
* Compliance & Standards: Ensure all hotel operations comply with health & safety regulations, licensing, and internal policies.
* Marketing & Sales Support: Collaborate with the marketing and sales team to promote the hotel, manage bookings, and enhance the property's visibility.
* Event Coordination: Assist in planning and executing events, conferences, and private functions to ensure seamless guest experiences.
Essential Criteria
* 2 years management experience ideally within a hotel setting
* Experience in budgeting, financial management, and operational planning.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* Flexibility to work Friday, Saturday and Sundays, including late evenings which are our busiest times
Desirable Criteria
* Degree or diploma in Hospitality Management or a related field.
* Experience in boutique hotel operations.
* Knowledge of hospitality management software and booking systems.
* Experience in a busy food and beverage setting
Why Join Us?
* Opportunity to gain the tools to fast track into a General Manager position
* Leadership role with real impact on guest experience and business growth
Closing Date 10th October 2025.
We reserve the right to bring the closing date earlier based on high demand of applicants.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Free parking
* On-site parking
* Private medical insurance
* Store discount
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Castlewellan BT31: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Work Location: In person