At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead guest experience and operations across Reception, Housekeeping, and Retail.
- Company: Join a people-centric hotel group focused on exceptional guest experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, team discounts, and health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunities for learning, development, and internal progression.
- Why this job: Shape unforgettable guest experiences and lead a dynamic team in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior operational leadership and team management in hospitality.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 46000 £ per year.
The Senior Operations Manager – Rooms & Guest Experience is a pivotal leadership role responsible for shaping how guests arrive, stay, explore and remember their time with us. Overseeing Reception, Guest Experience, Housekeeping, Create activities and Retail, this role ensures our hotels are beautifully presented, warmly hosted, commercially effective and consistently aligned with the spirit of Red Hotels.
Working closely with the Group Sales & Revenue Leader, you will deliver uncompromising operational standards, exceptional presentation, seamless service delivery and memorable guest experiences across both properties.
Responsible For:
- Leadership and operational excellence across Reception, Guest Experience, Housekeeping, Create activities and Retail — ensuring high‑quality service, commercial performance, team development and consistent guest satisfaction.
Principal Purpose:
To lead guest‑facing operational areas with clarity, confidence and warmth. You will evaluate and elevate service standards, own guest review platforms, respond thoughtfully to feedback and drive meaningful improvements across both hotels. You will ensure our stage is always set — immaculate presentation, welcoming arrival experiences, joyful moments throughout each stay, and a consistent operational plan that supports collaboration, efficiency and commercial success.
Key Priorities:
- Operational Leadership — Lead Reception, Guest Experience, Housekeeping, Create activities and Retail with clarity, confidence and a guest‑first mindset.
- Team Development — Nurture teams through presence, coaching and practical support to build a stable, energised and professional environment.
- Guest Experience Excellence — Deliver seamless service, spotless presentation and joyful guest experiences at all times.
- Agile Workforce Planning — Create an efficient, flexible workforce able to support both hotels.
- Create Activities & Retail Leadership — Ensure these areas are distinctive, well‑hosted, commercially aware and aligned with the Red Hotels ethos.
- Sustainability Focus — Champion sustainable practices to protect the business for future generations.
- Continuous Improvement — Review and refine standards, processes and guest journey delivery.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Senior Operational Leadership in a high‑quality hotel, hospitality or guest‑experience environment.
- Team Management — Experience leading Reception, Housekeeping and guest‑facing teams.
- Exceptional Communication — Strong written and verbal English.
- Hotel Presentation Expertise — Deep understanding of cleanliness, hygiene, room standards and guest journey delivery.
- Commercial Awareness — Labour planning, stock control, sales opportunities and budget management.
- Organisational Strength — Confident with systems, reporting and operational planning.
- Attention to Detail — Demonstrated literacy, numeracy and precision.
- Self‑Direction — Ability to independently manage workload and priorities.
- Lead by Example — Demonstrated ability to inspire and motivate teams.
Desired Skills & Qualifications:
- Experience managing activities, events, retail or experience‑led programming.
- Previous experience in multisite, high‑end or independent hotel environments.
- Knowledge of COSHH, Health & Safety, or First Aid.
- Experience with Guestline or PMS systems.
- Experience in coaching, mentoring, stock management, merchandising or retail sales.
Attitudes & Behaviours:
- Clear Communicator
- Naturally Inquisitive
- Guest‑Focused
- Positive & Solutions‑Focused
- Calm Under Pressure
- Empathetic & Collaborative
- Standards‑Driven
- Resilient & Self‑Motivated
- Actively Caring
- Consistent & Confidential
Salary & Benefits:
- £42,000 – £46,000 per annum
- Permanent, full‑time contract
- People‑centric working environment
- Learning, development & internal progression opportunities
- 28 days’ holiday, plus an extra day after your first year
- Long service award — enjoy a night’s stay on us
- 40% off food & drink + team discounts across hotel services
- Local partnership discounts & Health Shield Healthcare Plan
- Temporary on‑site team accommodation & free parking, team socials & celebration events
Be Part of Something Special:
Join a leadership team that shapes the heart of the guest experience. As Senior Operations Manager – Rooms & Guest Experience, you’ll ensure our hotels feel exceptional from the moment guests arrive to the moment they leave — beautifully presented, warmly hosted and unforgettable. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, confidence and purpose, we’d love to hear from you.
Senior Operations Manager in Newquay employer: Scarlet Hotel
Scarlet Hotel is an exceptional employer located in the stunning coastal town of Newquay, offering a vibrant and people-centric work environment. With a strong focus on career growth, sustainability, and creating memorable guest experiences, employees benefit from generous perks such as discounts, healthcare support, and opportunities for internal progression. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to thoughtful hospitality and innovative design, all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Cornish coast.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Operations Manager in Newquay
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Scarlet Hotel. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Scarlet Hotel
Don't be shy about reaching out to Scarlet Hotel directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Operations Manager in Newquay
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Scarlet Hotel and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scarlet Hotel
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
