Head Of Operations

OverviewA large landmark and award-winning grocery supermarket in West Cork is seeking anexperienced Head of Operationsto lead day-to-day operations, drive commercial performance, and strengthen innovation with a strong focus on fresh and prepared foods.Following a multi-million-euro investment and full store revamp, this supermarket has been positioned as a flagship within its group, recognised for both excellence and community focus.This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a high-performing retail environment, balance commercial results with people development, and make a real impact on the local community.ResponsibilitiesThe Head of Operations will play a pivotal role in shaping the store's ongoing success.Core responsibilities include:Customer & CommunityLead the delivery of exceptional customer service standards across all departments.Protect and strengthen the store's reputation as a trusted, community-focused retailer.Act as a visible leader on the shop floor, engaging with customers and staff daily.Lead, coach, and inspire a large, multi-skilled team.Develop future leaders by building a pipeline of trainee managers and assistant managers.Embed accountability, problem-solving behaviours, and a culture of high performance.Commercial PerformanceDeliver on key KPIs, including sales, margin, labour, and waste.Apply strong rostering discipline to optimise labour efficiency.Control costs while maintaining excellent shop-floor standards and availability.Operational ExcellenceEnsure flawless execution of promotions, planograms, seasonal changeovers, and product launches.Drive the adoption of efficient processes and systems (e.g., auto-ordering, stock management).Oversee daily routines such as opening/closing controls, promo changeovers, and replenishment cycles.Change Leadership & InnovationLead continuous improvement initiatives, embedding new systems and ways of working.Drive innovation in fresh food offerings and strengthen partnerships with local suppliers.Encourage the team to embrace change and deliver new ideas that benefit customers.Compliance & StandardsMaintain the highest standards of food safety, HACCP, and regulatory compliance.Ensure full compliance with health & safety and all relevant retail legislation.Regularly audit processes to guarantee best practice across all departments.Experience & QualificationsExperience:We are seeking an ambitious and commercially driven retail leader who will thrive in a dynamic, community-focused environment.The ideal candidate will demonstrate:Significant experience as a Store Manager/Operations Manager/Head of Operations (or equivalent senior role) in high-turnover grocery retail with a track record of consistently delivering strong commercial results.Fresh Food ExpertiseIn-depth knowledge of fresh categories (produce, meat/fish, bakery, deli).Experience driving product innovation and maintaining high fresh food standards.Operational ExcellenceExpertise in promotions, planograms, and seasonal trading.Strong rostering discipline and labour optimisation experience.Ability to embed simple, efficient systems that enhance consistency and control.Demonstrated success in leading and developing large teams.Experience coaching charge-hands and assistant managers into future leaders.Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and engage staff.Commercial AcumenResults-oriented with a focus on achieving and exceeding KPIs.Skilled at balancing commercial performance with long-term people and community focus.Experience leading through organisational or operational change.Ability to embed new systems and drive a culture of continuous improvement.Qualifications (desirable, not essential):What's on OfferPerformance-related bonusAccommodation provided (optional) in a newly refurbished 2-bedroom apartmentIf you are a passionate retail leader ready for this exciting challenge, please apply to this role in strict confidence or contact Ashling Edwards in HRM Search Partners onEmployment detailsSeniority level: Mid-Senior levelEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: General Business, Management, and Strategy/PlanningIndustries: Retail Health and Personal Care ProductsReferrals increase your chances of interviewing at HRM by 2xGet notified about new Head of Operations jobs inCork, County Cork, Ireland.We're unlocking community knowledge in a new way.Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.#J-*****-Ljbffr