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- Tasks: Lead daily operations at Dudley Zoo & Castle, ensuring an engaging visitor experience.
- Company: Join a charitable organization dedicated to animal welfare and unique visitor experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a vibrant work environment with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a historic site that attracts over 300,000 visitors annually and supports endangered species.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality, team leadership, and financial management is essential.
- Other info: Applications are open to all backgrounds; interviews will be held in person.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Dudley Zoo & Castle
West Midlands
Closing date for applications is: 4th Apr 2025
Dudley and West Midlands Zoological Society is structured as a charitable organisation, with a trading arm known as Dudley Zoological Services Limited and the Dudley Zoo Development Trust, which raises money for animal welfare expenditure. The site’s trading name is Dudley Zoo & Castle.
The site covers approximately 40 acres, surrounding and incorporating the ruins of Dudley Castle and featuring ‘modernist’ architecture of the Tecton Partnership. The historic nature of the site with a Grade I listed 11th century Norman castle, 12 concrete Tecton structures (Grade II & II*) and the Grade II Castle Hill Lodge, provide a unique setting and visitor attraction, whilst also placing added responsibility and burden upon the Society.
The Zoo houses a host of endangered species and yet our strength as a tourist attraction is the variety of visitor experiences available on site. This combination of heritage assets, exotic wildlife and unique site transportation, attracts over 300,000 visitors annually and generates funds for day-to-day operation and capital development.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
With overall responsibility for the day-to-day operational management of the site, provide inspiring leadership ensuring the delivery of an engaging and inspiring visitor experience, which will include a program of events for all ages and ensuring adequate management control, delivery of operational activities and strategic objectives to achieve budgetary targets.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
- Track record of leading and evaluating the performance of a multi-faceted team
- Experience of building partnerships with third-party contractors/vendors and external organisations
- Significant experience of working in the hospitality or visitor services business
- Track record of leading teams and evaluation of management performance
- Evidence of personnel and operational management skills
- A detailed understanding of financial processes and business analysis
- Evidence of having added value in operational delivery in a complex organisation
Apply for this job:
We encourage applications from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the grounds of any protected characteristic.
To receive a Role Profile, and/or submit applications, that must include your CV and supporting statement, via the Administration Team Leader,
Interviews in person at Dudley Zoo & Castle w/c: Friday 11th April 2025
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Operations Manager employer: BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
Contact Detail:
BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Dudley Zoo & Castle's unique offerings and history. Understanding the blend of heritage and wildlife will help you articulate how your operational management skills can enhance visitor experiences.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the hospitality and visitor services sectors. Building connections can provide insights into industry standards and expectations, which will be beneficial during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and improved operational efficiency in previous roles. Highlighting measurable outcomes will demonstrate your capability to meet the strategic objectives of Dudley Zoo & Castle.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends in visitor attractions and hospitality management. Being knowledgeable about industry innovations can set you apart and show your commitment to enhancing the visitor experience at Dudley Zoo & Castle.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Operations Manager position at Dudley Zoo & Castle. Make sure you understand the responsibilities and requirements, as this will help you tailor your application.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the role. Highlight your leadership skills, experience in hospitality or visitor services, and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to manage operations effectively.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is tailored to the specific job. Include relevant work experience, particularly in operational management and team leadership. Use quantifiable achievements to illustrate your impact in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread both your CV and supporting statement. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a multi-faceted team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your leadership style and the outcomes achieved.
✨Highlight Your Experience in Visitor Services
Since the role involves enhancing visitor experiences, be ready to discuss your background in hospitality or visitor services. Share specific instances where you improved customer satisfaction or developed engaging programs for visitors.
✨Discuss Financial Acumen
A strong understanding of financial processes is crucial for this position. Be prepared to talk about your experience with budgeting, financial analysis, and how you've contributed to the financial health of previous organizations.
✨Emphasize Partnership Building
Building partnerships with third-party contractors and external organizations is key. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others to achieve common goals, and be ready to explain how those experiences can benefit Dudley Zoo & Castle.
