Spa Manager
The Hawthorn by Galway Bay | Ireland’s Newest 5-Star Hotel
Co. Galway | Full-Time |
A rare opportunity to shape the guest journey at a 5-star luxury hotel on Ireland’s west coast. A member of Leading Hotels of The World
About The Hawthorn by Galway Bay
Poised on the edge of Galway Bay where land meets sea, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is positioned to be Ireland’s newest 5-star hotel, a destination designed by nature and refined by you nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way. Surrounded by native hawthorn trees and perched beside an 18-hole championship golf course, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay features 114 meticulously designed bedrooms, 47 of which are suites, a beautiful spa with wellness spaces, destination dining, and panoramic views of the Atlantic coast.
Position: Spa Manager.
Department: Spa
Reports to : General Managerand/or Executive Management as designated
About the Role
The Spa Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and performance of The Spa at The Hawthorn by Galway Bay. This role encompasses all facets of spa operations — from team leadership and guest service excellence to financial performance, brand standards, and daily operations.
The Director ensures the spa operates as a seamless, world-class wellness destination that reflects the luxury, calm, and integrity of The Hawthorn brand. Acting as both a strategic leader and operational support, this position balances business acumen with hands-on presence, guiding the team toward excellence in every guest interaction.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Oversee the full daily operation of the spa, including reception, wellness zone, and treatment departments.
- Ensure smooth coordination between teams to deliver a consistent five-star guest experience.
- Step in as required to support front-of-house, reservations, or treatment areas to maintain service flow.
- Develop and implement operational procedures to ensure efficiency, cleanliness, and excellence.
- Uphold brand standards and ensure every aspect of the spa reflects the identity and ethos of The Hawthorn.
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, inspire, and develop the spa team through coaching, training, and recognition.
- Manage recruitment, onboarding, and performance appraisals for all spa employees.
- Build a culture of collaboration, respect, and pride in delivering exceptional wellness experiences.
- Support and guide department heads, including Assistant Manager, Head Therapist, and Lead Hosts.
- Ensure ongoing professional development and training in guest service, product knowledge, and safety.
Financial & Administrative Management
- Manage spa budgets, payroll, and financial performance in alignment with hotel objectives.
- Analyse KPIs including treatment revenue, retail performance, and therapist utilisation.
- Implement yield and marketing strategies to drive profitability while maintaining brand integrity.
- Monitor stock, purchasing, and cost controls to ensure efficiency and compliance.
Guest Experience & Service Standards
- Uphold the highest standards of guest care and service consistency.
- Handle guest feedback or complaints with professionalism and empathy, ensuring timely resolution.
- Work closely with hotel management to ensure the spa contributes to the overall guest journey.
- Ensure health, safety, and hygiene regulations are met across all departments.
Personal Attributes & Skills
- Proven experience as a Spa or Wellness Manager within a luxury or five-star environment.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with a calm, composed presence.
- Excellent financial acumen and commercial awareness.
- Natural motivator with a passion for people and holistic wellbeing.
- Confident decision-maker with high standards of professionalism and presentation.
- Flexible and hands-on, able to step into any operational area when required.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for an individual who is warm, confident, organised and commercially minded, with the presence and professionalism required to operate in a 5-star environment.
You will be someone who naturally notices the details others may miss, takes ownership of the guest experience and enjoys being visible and engaged with both guests and colleagues.
What We Offer
A competitive remuneration and benefits package will be offered, reflective of the seniority and responsibility of the role.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join the opening team of The Hawthorn by Galway Bay and play a key role in establishing the operational standards, service culture and guest experience of one of Ireland's most anticipated new luxury hospitality destinations.
Equal Opportunities
The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace where every colleague is respected, valued and given the opportunity to succeed.
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee assistance program
- Food allowance
- Wellness program
Application question(s):
- Can you reliably commute to Renville, Oranmore, Co. Galway, H91 T4A4 . There is no public transport available.
- Do you have the legal right to work without employer sponsorship?
- Have you at least one year's experiences as a Spa Manager in a similar environment ?
Work Location: In person
