Head of Operations

Role: Head of Operations, Sudeley Castle LLP

Reporting to: Chief Executive, Sudeley Castle LLP

Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 per annum

Summary

Sudeley Castle & Gardens is seeking to appoint an exceptional person as its new Head of Operations, to lead and manage the daily activities of Sudeley, and to implement a number of initiatives that have been agreed as part of Sudeley’s strategic plan.

The Role

The current Chief Executive of Sudeley will be stepping back from the day-to-day running of Sudeley to focus on other responsibilities. It has therefore been decided to appoint an exceptional person as Sudeley’s new Head of Operations. You will work closely with the Head of Finance and report to the Chief Executive of Sudeley.

The Head of Operations will be responsible for the daily operations of Sudeley, which comprise visitor services, retail, catering, weddings and events, as well as gardening, security and maintenance teams.

Sudeley has 15 full time employees, around 35 seasonal workers and a further 40 volunteers. In addition, you will be responsible for implementing initiatives that have been agreed as part of Sudeley’s strategic plan.

You will therefore be expected to understand all aspects of Sudeley’s operations to ensure that everyone works as a well-functioning team. You will be the key person of reference for employees and clients, as well as external vendors, with an ability to multi-task and work well under pressure.

The goal is to improve the customer experience and expand Sudeley’s clientele. At the same time, you will need to look for innovative ways to reduce the cost of delivery, whilst enhancing customer satisfaction levels. You will need to inspect the facilities regularly to ensure strict compliance with regulatory requirements, identify and deal with maintenance issues, collaborating as appropriate with external parties.

You will be required to ensure that the business is successful in all areas and that profitability expectations are surpassed. You will manage budgets / expenses and analyse and interpret financial data. You will promote repeat business and ensure that the Sudeley has the highest reputation. It is important that you are engaging and inspiring, with the skills to deal with complaints as much as preparing monthly management reports.

Person specification

We are looking for a person with substantial experience in the hospitality industry and also of successfully managing a visitor attraction. You will be a proven leader, able to lead by example and foster a climate of cooperation. Other qualities we will be looking for include:

• Excellent customer service skills, as well as a business mindset
• Demonstrable aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving
• Reliable, with an ability to multi-task and work well under pressure
• Outstanding leadership skills and a great attention to detail
• Passionate about people, with a desire to grow and develop the team around you
• Track record of making successful commercial decisions
• Ability to forge good working relationships with suppliers and colleagues
• Commitment to providing a high degree of customer service to the public, ensuring every customer has a great experience
• Willingness to adopt and embrace our vision and values in both thought and action

Background information

Sudeley Castle & Gardens (www.sudeleycastle.co.uk) is a landmark visitor attraction in the Cotswolds, steeped in over 1,000 years of Royal history, with award-winning gardens and a castle that is lived in by the current owners, who continue to take a keen interest in its daily affairs.

The castle was once home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last and surviving wife of King Henry VIII. Henry himself, Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, Queen Elizabeth I and Richard III have all played a part in Sudeley’s story. King Charles I found refuge here during the Civil War, when his nephew Prince Rupert established his headquarters at the Castle.

Remuneration and other benefits

This is a full-time permanent position. A competitive salary will be paid for the right candidate. In addition, the person will be eligible to participate in the Sudeley bonus and pension schemes. There are also discounts on food and other merchandise purchases.

Application and selection procedure

Please apply by 12 noon on 31 March 2023 by sending or emailing your CV together with a covering letter, stating your current level of remuneration and relevant skills and experience for this role, along with contact details for two referees, to Martin McWilliam, Chief Executive, Sudeley Castle LLP, Castle Street, Winchcombe GL54 5JD (martin.mcwilliam@sudeley.org.uk). It is anticipated that successful candidates will be asked to attend initial interviews in April 2023.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £45,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus scheme

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Winchcombe: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 31/03/2023