General Manager
Senior Leadership | Full-Time, Permanent | Reporting to Owner
ABOUT EJ KINGS
EJ Kings has been at the heart of Clifden for over 100 years. Dominating the corner of Main Street and Market Square, we are a landmark bar and restaurant in the capital of Connemara – a magnet for writers, artists, filmmakers, and visitors from around the world.
We serve food from midday through to 9pm, with a full restaurant service in the evenings. Live music seven nights a week. A warm welcome, great food, an excellent pint, and good cheer – that's what we're known for, and that's what we intend to build on.
EJ Kings is part of the Westbrown portfolio of hospitality properties. This is a venue with enormous potential.
THE OPPORTUNITY
This is not just a job. This is a lifestyle choice.
We are seeking a General Manager to relocate to Clifden and take full ownership of EJ Kings. Someone who wants to run a business as if it were their own – building its reputation, driving its success, and becoming part of the fabric of this extraordinary town.
Clifden is a seasonal town, and the peak season from Easter to September is intense – tourists, festivals, groups, and locals all converging on a small number of quality venues. The potential here is huge for the right operator. But success requires commitment: being present, being visible, and being willing to put in the work when it matters most.
In return, you'll have the autonomy to shape the business, a prime location in one of Ireland's most beautiful towns, and the backing of an established hospitality group. For someone wanting to build something meaningful – and live somewhere truly special – this is a rare opportunity.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
Operations & Leadership
- Take full operational ownership of EJ Kings – bar, restaurant, and live music programme
- Recruit, train, and lead a seasonal team to deliver consistently excellent service
- Be present and visible – this is a hands-on role, not remote management
- Manage rosters, stock, suppliers, and day-to-day operations
- Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, food safety, and employment legislation
Commercial & Revenue
- Drive revenue through food, beverage, group bookings, and events
- Maximise the peak season – Easter to September is where the business is made
- Control costs, manage GP, and deliver against targets
- Identify opportunities to extend the season and build year-round trade
Reputation & Community
- Build and maintain EJ Kings' reputation as a must-visit destination in Clifden
- Develop relationships with local businesses, tour operators, and the wider Connemara community
- Champion exceptional guest experiences – food, service, atmosphere, and live music
- Manage online presence and respond to reviews across TripAdvisor, Google, and social media
- Position EJ Kings at the heart of Clifden's social and cultural life
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- Proven track record running a busy bar and restaurant – ideally as GM or Owner-Operator
- Someone who wants to 'own' a business – with the mindset, commitment, and accountability that entails
- Willing to relocate to Clifden – this role requires you to be part of the community, not commuting from elsewhere
- Ready to commit for a tenured period – we're looking for someone to build something, not pass through
- Hands-on operator who leads from the front
- Commercially astute with strong P&L understanding
- Excellent with people – guests, team, suppliers, and the local community
- Calm under pressure during high-intensity peak season
- Knowledge of the West of Ireland hospitality scene is an advantage, but passion and commitment matter more
WHAT WE OFFER
- Competitive salary – reflective of the seniority and commitment required
- Performance-based bonus structure
- Autonomy to run the venue and shape its future
- Direct reporting line to the Owner
- Support from an established hospitality group with multiple properties
- Accommodation support for relocation can be discussed
- A rare opportunity to live and work in one of Ireland's most beautiful locations
IS THIS YOU?
This role is for someone at a turning point – perhaps you've managed venues for others and now want to run one as your own. Perhaps you're looking to leave the city and build a life somewhere different. Perhaps you've always dreamed of being the person behind a great local pub in the West of Ireland.
If that's you, we want to hear from you. If you're looking for a short-term stepping stone, this isn't it. Serious applicants only.
Pay: €50,000.00-€75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Profit sharing
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Clifden, County Galway: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- management: 5 years (required)
Work authorisation:
Work Location: In person
