Host

Ashford Castle

Cong•Terms and conditions for this position will be discussed at interview •Full time

Host – Luxury Hotel


We are recruiting for an experienced Host to deliver exceptional Food & Beverage service to our guests, in line with Forbes Five-Star standards and The Red Carnation Hotels standards.


What’s in it for you?

  • Professional, award-winning training and development opportunities.
  • Discounted accommodation rates across the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.
  • Employee recognition events.
  • Discounted rates with local businesses and third-party service providers, including Estate Activities.
  • Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability).
  • Free meals while on duty.
  • Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire.
  • Recommend-a-friend and family bonus scheme.
  • Two paid volunteering days per year.
  • Holiday allowance increasing with length of service, up to 25 days.
  • Hotel-based recognition incentives.
  • Free access to the Employee Assistance Programme.


Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland.

Employment type: Full time.

Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends and Bank Holidays) with 2 days off. Predominantly evening shifts but flexibility required to work some mornings.


Join Ashford Castle and become part of a legendary story. As Ireland’s only double Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa, Ashford Castle is a true icon of Irish heritage and a proud member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.


Beyond its grand stone gates lies an unforgettable experience. Once home to the Guinness family, this 800-year-old castle offers award-winning luxury, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, and a passionate team dedicated to creating unforgettable moments. Voted No. 1 Resort Hotel in the UK & Ireland by Travel + Leisure, and proud to have retained the Forbes Five-Star Award in 2025.


Key responsibilities will include:

  • Deliver an exceptional and personalised welcome to all guests, creating a refined and memorable first impression in line with the restaurant’s standards.
  • Manage reservations, guest enquiries, and walk-ins with precision, discretion, and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Cross check dining reservations with guest profile notes.
  • Orchestrate guest seating with elegance and efficiency, working in close collaboration with the service team to ensure seamless flow and timing, in line with the Forbes 5 Star standards.
  • Anticipate guest needs and preferences, ensuring all special requests and important details are communicated clearly and executed flawlessly.
  • Maintain an impeccable standard of presentation, professionalism, and poise at all times.
  • Enhance the guest experience by confidently and subtly introducing menu highlights, signature offerings, and exclusive events where appropriate.
  • Liaise closely with kitchen and front-of-house teams to deliver a cohesive, high-touch dining experience.
  • Uphold the highest standards of cleanliness, organisation, and hygiene across all guest-facing areas in line with established protocols.


What we are looking for:

  • Previous experience in a similar role within a high-quality hospitality environment.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Legal eligibility to work in Ireland.
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to service excellence.
  • A friendly, enthusiastic, and flexible attitude.
  • The ability to remain calm under pressure, manage workload effectively, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Prior experience with Opera PMS and OpenTable desired.