Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations across 15 community-focused sites in York.
- Company: Explore is a mutual organisation enhancing lives through libraries and creative activities.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for innovation and community impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of public services while fostering an inclusive, vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Strong management experience, health & safety knowledge, and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in York.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Explore is a different kind of public service — a mutual owned by our staff and community members. We’re dedicated to enhancing lives in York through our trusted spaces, offering library, archive, learning, and creative activities that reflect and nurture an inclusive, vibrant community. We provide opportunities to read, meet, learn, imagine, create, and belong.
Explore delivers statutory public libraries and archives under contract with City of York Council, operating 15 libraries—including our flagship York Explore and City Archive—seven Reading Cafes, a mobile library, and a home library service. As a National Portfolio Organisation funded by Arts Council England and the National Lottery, we employ 100 people, most living locally.
Last year alone, we welcomed nearly 900,000 visitors, hosted almost 4,000 events attended by 57,000 people, registered over 10,000 new members, loaned 3,000+ books, and received 25,000+ volunteer hours.
We’re seeking an experienced and driven Head of Operations to lead the day-to-day management of our 15 sites across York. Reporting to the Chief Executive, this pivotal role oversees Buildings & Facilities Management, Health & Safety, Compliance, ICT services, and Environmental Sustainability.
You’ll build and inspire a new operations team focused on smooth delivery, continuous improvement, and innovation. Responsibilities include managing our estate and key contracts, leading sustainability initiatives, and ensuring comprehensive health and safety compliance.
We’re looking for someone with:
- Strong estates or facilities management experience in busy, customer-facing environments
- Proven leadership, contract management, and budget oversight skills
- Solid Health & Safety knowledge with NEBOSH or equivalent qualification
- Experience delivering sustainability strategies and operational projects
- Excellent communication, stakeholder influence, and the ability to juggle priorities are essential.
If you’re ready to shape Explore’s future and make a real impact across York, we’d love to hear from you.
Closing date for applications: By 5pm on Thursday 14th August 2025
Interview Date: Wednesday 3rd September
Head of Operations employer: EXPLORE YORK LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES MUTU
Contact Detail:
EXPLORE YORK LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES MUTU Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Explore's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to community engagement and inclusivity will help you align your vision for operations with theirs, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Explore. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and operational challenges, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed facilities and led teams in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in customer-facing environments will demonstrate your capability to handle the demands of this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in sustainability and health & safety regulations. Being knowledgeable about these areas will show your commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, which are key aspects of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Operations position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, and think about how your experience aligns with these.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in estates or facilities management, leadership, and health & safety compliance. Use specific examples that demonstrate your achievements in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for enhancing community services. Mention how you can contribute to Explore's mission and values.
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 and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at EXPLORE YORK LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES MUTU
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before the interview, take some time to research Explore's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to enhancing lives in York will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Head of Operations, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed teams, improved processes, or driven change. Highlight your leadership style and how it can benefit Explore.
✨Prepare for Health & Safety Questions
Given the importance of health and safety in this role, be ready to discuss your knowledge and experience in this area. Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations and be prepared to share how you've ensured compliance in previous positions.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Sustainability
Explore is focused on environmental sustainability, so be prepared to discuss any initiatives you've led or been involved in. Share your vision for how you can contribute to their sustainability strategies and operational projects.
