The Armada Hotel in Co Clare has announced the creation of 100 new jobs as part of a of a €3 million redevelopment plan due for completion in February.
The four-star hotel has launched a recruitment drive, which will be headquartered from a beach hut by the sea at Spanish Point, to attract talent from across the island to posts which include more than 30 hospitality roles.
The renovation, which was placed on hold last year due to the pandemic, will see the delivery of a large extension housing a new 90-seater restaurant with a sustainable energy kitchen and an ocean bar. There will also be a private dining area for parties of up to 12.
The remainder of the renovation works will take place in January when the hotel is closed to guests.
“We’re building a world-class extension to give our guests the most authentic experience of life by the coast,” said hotel owner John Burke.
“That’s what we have to offer as a career too: the chance to work in one of Ireland’s most innovative hotels, offering a healthier approach to working hours, pay and conditions that means our team and their families get to truly enjoy life by the sea.”
Mr Burke said the hotel is currently sourcing accommodation in the area and upgrading its own staff apartments to facilitate people who want to work at THe Armada.
Staff retention
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.
“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.
“As an industry, the sector needs to change and become more employee centric. We want working at the Armada, and in the Irish hospitality sector in general, to be a rewarding long term career in which team members feel they are valued and looked after.”
Mr Burke said the hotel is “constantly reviewing” staff pay and conditions “around everything from breaks and benefits to the comfort of the working environment”.
“We’re currently looking at introducing premium rates for staff working past midnight,” he said. “We’re also proud to run what we believe is the most active employee wellbeing and assistance programme existing in any Irish hotel.
