At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Bekonscot Model Village, ensuring its heritage and visitor experience thrive.
- Company: Join the world's oldest model village, a beloved charity since 1929.
- Benefits: Be part of a unique community-focused organisation with a strong brand.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a cherished attraction and inspire generations.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in tourism or heritage sectors; strong financial acumen.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a historic setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Bekonscot
Bekonscot Model Village is the world’s oldest original model village and visitor attraction. Since opening in 1929, Bekonscot has delighted generations of visitors while preserving a unique snapshot of English village life in the 1930s. Operated as a charity, Bekonscot combines heritage, education and tourism with a strong community ethos.
The Role
We are seeking an inspiring Chief Executive to lead Bekonscot as the Village moves into its second century. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive will have overall responsibility for the leadership, management, financial sustainability and future development of the organisation. This is a highly visible role, requiring a balance of strategic vision, commercial acumen, a willingness to participate in the day-to-day operation of the Village and a genuine passion for heritage and visitor experiences.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strong leadership to staff and stakeholders
- Develop and deliver a long-term strategy aligned with Bekonscot’s charitable objectives
- Oversee day-to-day operations, manage and deliver development projects and ensure an excellent visitor experience
- Lead marketing, partnerships and profile-raising initiatives
- Ensure compliance with charity, employment, health & safety and other regulations
- Champion Bekonscot’s heritage, educational mission and community engagement
- Work closely with the Board of Trustees
- Ensure financial sustainability through income generation, cost control and effective budgeting
About You
You will be a confident and credible leader with significant managerial and operational experience, ideally within the tourism, heritage or culture sectors.
Essential skills and experience:
- Proven strategic leadership and organisational management experience
- Strong financial and commercial awareness
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to inspire teams and lead through change
Desirable:
- Experience in visitor attractions, museums, or heritage organisations
- Understanding of charity governance
- Experience working with or reporting to a Board
Why Join Bekonscot?
This is a rare opportunity to lead a well-known heritage attraction with a strong brand, loyal visitor base and exciting future. You’ll play a key role in preserving a much-loved institution while shaping its future for generations to come.
How to Apply
Please email via the button below for an information pack with details on how to apply. The closing date for applications is Sunday 1 March.
Chief Executive in Beaconsfield employer: Bekonscot Model Village (The Roland Callingham Foundation)
Contact Detail:
Bekonscot Model Village (The Roland Callingham Foundation) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive in Beaconsfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the heritage and tourism sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for community engagement and visitor experiences.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your face! If you can, visit Bekonscot or similar attractions. Get a feel for the environment and jot down ideas on how you could enhance visitor experiences. This will show your genuine interest and commitment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Bekonscot’s history and current initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your strategic vision aligns with their charitable objectives and how you can lead them into their second century.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive in Beaconsfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for heritage and visitor experiences shine through. We want to see how much you care about preserving the charm of places like Bekonscot!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in tourism, heritage, or culture sectors. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and skills stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bekonscot Model Village (The Roland Callingham Foundation)
✨Know Your Heritage
Before the interview, dive deep into Bekonscot's history and its significance as a heritage attraction. Understanding its unique charm and community impact will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate your genuine passion for preserving such an institution.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with Bekonscot’s values. Think of specific examples where you've inspired teams or led through change, especially in the tourism or heritage sectors. This will highlight your fit for the Chief Executive role.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Brush up on your financial management skills and be ready to discuss strategies for ensuring financial sustainability. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed budgets or generated income in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with various stakeholders, from staff to the Board of Trustees. Prepare to share your communication strategies and how you’ve built partnerships in the past. This will show that you can effectively manage relationships and drive Bekonscot’s mission forward.