General Manager Sought for New Urban Water Sports Destination on River Liffey

Job Title : Water Sports General Manager

Location : Custom House Quay, Dublin 1

Reports To : Swan Leisure Director of Operations

Employment Type : Full-time, permanent role

Salary : Competitive – Based on Experience and relevant qualifications

Job Summary :

Operated by Swan Leisure, this will be a first-of-its-kind urban water sports destination located at Custom House Quay on the River Liffey, offering unique and inclusive programmes for schools, residents, corporate teams, and tourists – combining health, fun, team-building, and environmental awareness in the heart of Dublin's docklands.

We are seeking a dynamic, organised, and passionate General Manager to oversee the daily operations of our new water sports facility specialising in canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. This leadership role combines management, safety oversight, customer service, and staff supervision to ensure smooth and enjoyable experiences for guests of all skill levels.

Key Responsibilities :

Operations & Program Management :

• Oversee all water-based programs, including rentals, guided tours, instructional sessions, and events.
• Maintain daily schedules and staffing plans to ensure optimal service levels.
• Ensure the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of all equipment and facilities.
• Monitor weather and water conditions, adapting operations as needed for safety.

Staff Leadership & Training :

• Recruit, train, and manage instructors, guides, and rental staff.
• Implement regular staff evaluations, feedback, and development opportunities.
• Promote a positive, team-oriented workplace culture.

Customer Experience & Safety :

• Ensure all participants receive proper orientation, safety briefings, and guidance.
• Handle customer inquiries, concerns, and feedback with professionalism and care.
• Oversee emergency response procedures and incident reporting protocols.
• Design a range of curated, water-based programmes for different audiences
• Create a seasonal calendar of activity
• Align experiences with wellness, sustainability, education and fun

Equipment & Facilities Management :

• Manage inventory and maintenance schedules for canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and safety gear.
• Coordinate repairs and replacements in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and environmental guidelines.

Sales & Marketing Support :

• Collaborate with the marketing team to promote programs, special events, and seasonal offers.
• Track participation data and customer feedback to identify growth opportunities.
• Help build partnerships with local businesses, schools, and tourism organisations.

Requirements :

• Proven experience in water sports or outdoor recreation management (3+ years preferred).
• Strong knowledge of canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding techniques and safety practices.
• First Aid, CPR, and Water Safety certifications (WFA, WFR, or Lifeguard preferred).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Customer service mindset and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.

Core Values at Swan Leisure

• Creativity

We will bring fresh energy to the city by reimagining the Liffey as a dynamic outdoor playground — using water sports to inspire new ways to connect, move, and engage with our environment.

• Community

At our heart is a commitment to building community — from local groups and schools to corporate teams and urban explorers — we will create space for people to come together outdoors on the water.

• Learning

Backed by Swan Leisure's expertise, we will deliver fun, skill-building experiences for schools, teams, and community groups — building confidence and connection to the water.

• Inclusivity

We believe the river is for everyone. Our programmes will be designed to welcome people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities — making outdoor adventure truly accessible.

• Team

Whether you're part of a work crew, a school group, or meeting new faces for the first time, our experiences will foster real connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of team.