A HOTEL in Co. Clare has announced the creation of more than 100 new jobs and launched an innovative recruitment drive to help fill the roles.
The Armada Hotel has launched The Quest for Ireland’s Best, to attract talent from across the island to posts in more than 30 hospitality roles.
The jobs are being created as a result of a €3 million redevelopment plan due for completion in February 2022 at the four star Spanish Point hotel.
The renovation project, which was placed on hold last year due to the pandemic will see the delivery of a large extension housing ‘Aileens’ - a brand new 90 seater restaurant with its own 100 per cent sustainable energy kitchen; a new ocean bar with an interactive cocktail space; a private dining area for parties of up to 12 guests; and a dedicated space for wedding arrivals with feature bar and panoramic views.
The remainder of the renovation works will take place in January when the hotel is closed to guests.
In a bold move to facilitate its ‘Quest for Ireland’s Best’ and find the best talent to fill all 100 jobs by February, the award-winning hotel has even opened its own recruitment agency, with its HQ in a beach hut by the sea at Spanish Point.
The Armada is seeking 100 new team members to join them immediately on their “next big adventure” which they say offers a great life in hospitality by the sea.
Hotel owner and managing director, John Burke, who is married to TV personality and well-being entrepreneur, Aoibhin Garrihy, explained: “We want to find Ireland’s best for our next big adventure.
“We’re building a world-class extension to give our guests the most authentic experience of life by the coast.
“That’s what we have to offer as a career too: the chance to work in one of Ireland’s most innovative hotels, offering something few other establishments are facilitating, a healthier approach to working hours, pay and conditions that means our team and their families get to truly enjoy life...by the sea.”
The hotelier also commented on the ongoing issues affecting the hospitality industry and called for change within the sector in order to attract and retain staff.
“He says hospitality employers need to rethink the workplace environments they create in order to make careers in the sector more appealing.
Speaking from the hotel’s beach hut recruitment HQ, Mr Burke revealed ambitious plans to “lead the way within the sector by ensuring The Armada is a great place to work, with conditions, pay and supports to match”.
“Employment here is something that we aim to ensure gives all of our team great pride and satisfaction and we are excited to launch our ‘Quest for the Best’, to find the cream of Ireland’s hospitality talent, and encourage applicants from across Ireland to join us, for a better life by the sea,” he said.
“In an effort to support this, we are currently sourcing accommodation in the area and upgrading our own staff apartments to enable people wishing to relocate to the west, to work here in County Clare.”
He added, “Here at The Armada, we believe the most important person who walks through our doors is the employee.
“Everything starts with them because without an excellent team, we can't maintain and uphold the excellent service we currently provide for our guests.
“There is no doubt that the hospitality sector faces challenges but we plan to lead the way in terms of what a hotel can offer employees around pay, perks, hours and conditions of work and ultimately, quality of life.”
Mr Burke concluded “So, for a life by the sea, with time to enjoy it, come join our team!”
Anyone interested in the jobs available should send their By The Sea. C.V. to [email protected] or click here.
