At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and events at one of Britain's iconic visitor attractions.
- Company: Castle Howard, a historic house and garden with a vibrant events programme.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Flexible hours with exciting challenges and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create memorable experiences for visitors.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations, events management, and exceptional customer service skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Join one of Britain's most iconic visitor attractions. Castle Howard is one of the country’s finest historic houses and gardens, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and hosting a diverse programme of events, exhibitions, filming projects and seasonal experiences. We are looking for an exceptional Operations & Events Manager to lead the operational delivery of our visitor attraction and events programme.
The Role
As Operations & Events Manager, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day leadership of visitor operations across Castle Howard and the Arboretum, ensuring exceptional standards of customer service, presentation, safety and operational excellence. You will also lead the planning and delivery of a varied programme of public events and commercial filming activity across the estate. Working closely with senior colleagues across the organisation, you will help drive visitor satisfaction, operational performance and commercial success while ensuring that Castle Howard continues to deliver memorable experiences in a way that protects and enhances its heritage.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead visitor operations across the House, visitor attraction, Arboretum and wider estate.
- Champion outstanding visitor experiences and customer service standards.
- Lead, motivate and develop teams across admissions, house operations, outdoor operations, security, facilities and caretaking.
- Manage and support volunteers across the visitor attraction.
- Plan and deliver public events, seasonal programmes, commercial filming and location hire activity.
- Drive continuous improvement through operational planning, data analysis and performance management.
- Act as a Duty Manager and senior operational lead during peak periods, major events and emergency situations.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety, security and operational procedures.
About You
- An experienced operational leader within a visitor attraction, heritage, tourism, hospitality or events environment.
- Passionate about delivering exceptional customer and visitor experiences.
- Experienced in managing large‑scale events and complex operational activity.
- Confident leading teams of paid employees and volunteers.
- Organised, commercially aware and able to manage competing priorities.
- Calm under pressure and able to make sound decisions in a fast‑paced environment.
- An excellent communicator who can build strong relationships across teams and with external partners.
What We Offer
This is an opportunity to take on a highly visible leadership role within a unique and inspiring environment. You’ll join a passionate team committed to preserving Castle Howard’s heritage while delivering outstanding visitor experiences and helping the estate continue to evolve and thrive. No two days are the same. From overseeing daily visitor operations to delivering major events and filming projects, this role offers variety, responsibility and the chance to make a real impact.
Working Hours
This role requires flexibility in line with our operational and events calendar, including regular weekend, evening and bank holiday working, particularly during peak periods and the Christmas season.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.
Closing Date
Friday 17th July 2026
Operations & Events Manager employer: Castle Howard Estate Ltd
Castle Howard is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates heritage and community engagement. As an Operations & Events Manager, you'll benefit from professional growth opportunities while leading a passionate team dedicated to delivering unforgettable visitor experiences at one of the UK's most iconic destinations. Located near York, North Yorkshire, this role provides a unique chance to thrive in a dynamic environment where your contributions directly impact the enjoyment of hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations & Events Manager
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
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Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Castle Howard Estate Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Castle Howard Estate Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Castle Howard Estate Ltd directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations & Events Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Castle Howard Estate Ltd and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Castle Howard Estate Ltd
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
