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- Tasks: Lead race day operations and ensure exceptional guest experiences at Chester Racecourse.
- Company: Join Chester Race Company, a renowned brand in the North West with a passion for horseracing.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like free lunches, gym discounts, and enhanced pension contributions.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, drive growth, and make a real impact on events.
- Qualifications: Experience in guest-facing roles and event management is essential.
- Other info: This role requires occasional travel and offers a competitive salary of around £42,000.
The predicted salary is between 33600 - 50400 £ per year.
Chester Race Company are proud to present an exciting opportunity for an individual to join the Operations team as a Racecourse Operations Manager on a permanent contract, based in the heart of Chester. If you are an experienced and dedicated person with a knack for leading guest-facing operations, this is the perfect role for you.
The Racecourse Operations Manager will oversee the smooth running of each race day at Chester and Bangor on Dee Racecourse as well as non-racing events. This position is the perfect fit for someone who can drive high standards and plan meticulously in order to drive growth.
About Chester Race Company: Chester Race Company Ltd is one of the North West's best-known and most-admired brands. It is an evolving organisation with a broad portfolio but retaining Horseracing at its core. The Company operates three racecourses, Chester, Bangor-on-Dee and Musselburgh, in Scotland. At Chester, we also own and operate a hotel, a vibrant pub and have other property interests in the city.
General responsibilities include:
- Ensure each race day and major event is planned meticulously and all key stakeholders are well informed on the lead up and day of the event.
- Provide professional and inspirational leadership to the team to support individual development.
- Own the companies Guest Service training to ensure colleagues receive the best foundation to support Guest Experience.
- Work with Marketing to ensure race days are themed correctly to help drive volume.
- Work with Marketing, Sales and the COO to help grow outdoor racecourse events at both Chester and Bangor on Dee.
- Co-ordinate all operational activities, delegating and organising work schedules to ensure resource is appropriately allocated.
- Ensure that throughput is monitored to give our Guests the fastest ingress and egress on a race day.
- Own the guest EDI policy.
- Analyse guest feedback and ensure concerns are dealt with to minimise complaints.
- Ensure site presentation is always up to the highest standard and daily site opening and closing checks are completed.
- Ensure staffing levels are in-line with the agreed budget.
- Ensure all staffing teams are in place, well equipped and are delivering exceptional service to welcome guests.
- Act as the Bronze Commander on major events.
The successful Racecourse Operations Manager will have the following:
- Previous experience in leading a guest-facing operation in sports/events or the visitor attraction industry.
- Previous experience working major events, writing event plans and managing complex budgets.
- Ability to analyse performance of guest feedback and manage crisis incidents.
- Good time management with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
- A team player with the ability to mentor other team members effectively.
- A dedicated and hardworking attitude.
- Highly organised.
Benefits include:
- Enhanced employer pension contribution.
- Continuous professional development.
- Private medical cover (Medi-Cash).
- Enhanced maternity and paternity.
- Free onsite parking.
- Free chef-prepared lunch.
- Gym and restaurant discounts.
- Free tickets for selected Race Days across the group.
- Access to a well-being app.
Salary: c. £42,000 per annum
Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week, standard working hours are 09:00-17:00. Evening and weekend work is expected in line with business needs.
This role is based in Chester with occasional travel in the UK and therefore a reliable commute to Chester city centre is essential.
If you feel like this is the perfect fit for you, please apply with your CV attached today! All applications will be collated and assessed upon the closing date by the recruitment team and the hiring manager for the role.
Racecourse Operations Manager employer: Chester Races
Contact Detail:
Chester Races Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Racecourse Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chester Race Company's operations and values. Understanding their commitment to guest experience and high standards will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the sports and events industry, particularly those who have experience in racecourse management. Attend relevant events or join online forums to gain insights and make connections that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed guest-facing operations or major events. Highlight your leadership skills and ability to analyse feedback to demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in the racing and events industry, especially regarding guest engagement and operational efficiency. Being knowledgeable about current practices will show your passion for the role and your proactive approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Racecourse Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in guest-facing operations, particularly in sports or events. Emphasise any leadership roles and your ability to manage complex budgets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the industry. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your skills in planning events and leading teams, as well as your dedication to guest service.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills mentioned in the job description, such as time management, crisis management, and the ability to analyse guest feedback. Use examples to illustrate how you've successfully applied these skills in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the Racecourse Operations Manager role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester Races
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Racecourse Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed a team, especially in high-pressure situations like major events.
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with Chester Race Company's history, values, and recent events. Understanding their operations and how they engage with guests will show your genuine interest in the role and help you align your answers with their expectations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle guest feedback. Think of specific scenarios where you had to manage crises or improve guest experiences, and be ready to discuss the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Given the meticulous planning required for race days and events, be prepared to discuss your time management strategies. Share examples of how you've successfully juggled multiple projects and ensured all details were covered.
