People Operations Manager - Galway and Athlone

About the Role

Bus Éireann is inviting applications for an experienced and proactive People Operations Manager to join the Western Area Management Team, responsible for supporting road passenger services in Galway and Athlone. This leadership position oversees all staff performance including drivers, supervisors, clerical, and support teams, ensuring alignment with regional operational objectives and compliance with HR policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a thorough understanding of service delivery needs in Galway and Athlone and manage workforce planning to meet these demands, coordinating recruitment and selection with HR teams.
• Manage driver availability effectively by monitoring attendance—both planned and unexpected—and ensure adherence to attendance policies including conducting Return to Work interviews.
• Lead employee engagement strategies by implementing initiatives that foster a positive workplace and promote participation through programs like GEMS, Have Your Say, and Bright Ideas.
• Investigate employee and disciplinary issues transparently and fairly in accordance with established procedures.
• Drive change initiatives within operations, such as adopting new technologies, enhancing business processes, improving team performance, and workforce management.
• Maintain an open-door policy to promptly address and escalate employee concerns when necessary.
• Exemplify strong performance management by holding regular one-on-one meetings, giving timely feedback, and managing probation processes for all direct reports, including drivers.
• Ensure all spending, particularly overtime, stays within budget through proper approval procedures.
• Oversee compliance with company cash management policies related to driver cash handling discrepancies.
• Manage facility conditions in Galway and Athlone to provide an optimal work environment for employees.
• Act as an ambassador for Bus Éireann, embodying company values in local and regional operational collaborations.

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Proven experience managing people within an operational environment with strong people management practices.
• Excellent prioritization and planning abilities, managing complex data sets and implementing operational business processes.
• Up-to-date knowledge of relevant employment policies, employee relations, and industrial relations.
• Sound business acumen with insight into business fundamentals and financial performance.
• Experienced in leading complex change initiatives from concept to completion.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and compliance leadership experience.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

• Three to five years of relevant experience.
• A related third-level qualification.
• Transport Manager CPC certification.

Benefits and Additional Information

• Permanent contract with a supportive work environment.
• Annual leave starting at 25 days, increasing to 28 days after five years of service.
• Subsidised GP scheme available for employees, their partners, and dependents up to age 16.
• Travel concession for employees and dependents on CIE services.
• Residential travel on CIE services to and from the workplace.
• Access to pension and welfare schemes, including an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Opportunities for professional development through study schemes.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bus Éireann is committed to equal opportunity employment, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees can reach their full potential.

Application Process

Applicants are encouraged to submit their application by July 31, 2026. Candidates who have applied in April or June 2026 do not need to reapply.