At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to create unforgettable visitor experiences at Bath Abbey.
- Company: Join the vibrant Bath Abbey, a historic church welcoming 350,000 visitors annually.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a caring community focused on heritage, hospitality, and hope.
- Why this job: Shape the future of visitor experiences in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Qualifications: Experience in visitor attractions, team leadership, and budget management required.
A 12-month fixed term contract for maternity cover. Part time: 32 hours per week. Typically Monday to Friday, although occasional weekend and evening work will be required. Salary: £33,300 (FTE £41,600). Reports to: Executive Director. Direct reports include Events Manager, Learning Manager, Retail Manager, Visitor Experience Manager, Archivist and Curator, Assistant Retail Manager, Visitor Experience Officers (x3), Visitor Experience Assistants (x23), Shop Supervisors (x5), Events Assistants and approximately 100 volunteers.
Bath Abbey is a vibrant parish church at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath. It has been a place of worship, welcome and wonder for more than 500 years, welcoming over 350,000 visitors from around the world each year. Guided by our values—Welcoming, Sharing, Cherishing and Flourishing—we strive to be an inclusive, diverse and caring community.
The Head of Visitor Experience is responsible for the operational leadership of the Visitor Experience Department which includes Events, Learning, Retail and Visitor Experience. The successful candidate will oversee day-to-day operations, engaging teams of staff and volunteers to provide high-quality experiences while delivering on financial targets. They will also ensure the successful delivery of visitor-focused development projects and the short-term planning and delivery of Bath Abbey’s public programme.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead visitor facing teams to ensure a high-quality visitor experience.
- Set and review standards for visitor facing teams and lead by example when implementing these.
- Ensure all public areas are maintained to a consistently high standard.
- Work across the Abbey to identify opportunities to continually improve the visitor experience.
- Ensure all visitor enquiries and complaints are dealt with to a high standard of visitor satisfaction.
- Support direct reports to develop and deliver high quality and sustainable offers.
- Lead the development and delivery of an audience focused public programme.
- Champion the needs of visitors in all areas and across all departments of the Abbey.
- Work strategically with all teams and other stakeholders to ensure that the Abbey’s vision is delivered.
- Contribute to overall operational planning.
- Lead and take responsibility for development projects.
- Contribute to the management of the Abbey’s risk register.
- Lead and line manage direct reports; supporting, involving and guiding them.
- Oversee the management and development of a team of visitor facing staff and volunteers.
- Establish and maintain effective methods of internal communication.
- Contribute to the creation and manage relevant sections of the Abbey's annual budget.
- Monitor and evaluate visitor experience at Bath Abbey against agreed plans.
Person Specification
- Sympathy with and understanding of the vision and values of Bath Abbey as a place of worship.
- Experience working in a visitor attraction or similar venue.
- Experience developing or implementing visitor experiences.
- Experience leading and managing staff.
- Experience of managing a budget and basic financial reporting.
- Highly personable, able to motivate and inspire others.
- Excellent communicator capable of working with diverse stakeholders.
- Organised with high standards and attention to detail.
- A team player.
- Confident to work independently and be self-motivated.
- Ability to work well under pressure and manage competing demands.
- Computer literacy and IT skills.
- Excellent customer service and relationship building skills.
- A flexible and proactive approach.
Head of Visitor Experience in North Newton employer: BATH ABBEY
Bath Abbey is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at a historic site in the heart of Bath, where heritage and community come together. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and personal growth, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, alongside opportunities for professional development within a vibrant team dedicated to enhancing visitor experiences. The Abbey's recent investments in sustainability and visitor engagement further enrich the workplace, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about heritage and hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Visitor Experience in North Newton
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
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Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Visitor Experience in North Newton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH ABBEY
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at BATH ABBEY. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
