At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage visitor facilities and services at Wendover Woods, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join Forestry England, a leader in woodland management and visitor experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, pension contributions, discounts, and free entry to arboretums.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and lifelong learning in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on visitor experiences while working in stunning natural landscapes.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This role is based within the East England Forest District, which manages more than 35,000 hectares of woodland stretching from Norfolk to Buckinghamshire and across Kent to East Sussex. Wendover Woods is one of Forestry England’s flagship destinations: a 300‑hectare ancient woodland site set within the stunning Chilterns National Landscape. Each year, over 400,000 visitors come to Wendover Woods to enjoy its landscape, far‑reaching views and the sense of escape it provides. The site offers miles of dedicated trails, a range of children’s play areas, the popular Wendover Woods Café, Go Ape and a busy calendar of events that draw visitors from across the region.
As Operations Manager, you will be responsible for the safe, compliant and efficient management of visitor facilities and services at Wendover Woods and at our smaller sites across the Chilterns National Landscape. You will lead and manage staff and volunteers, oversee Health and Safety compliance, take ownership of planned and reactive facilities management, manage budgets and contracts, and ensure the effective maintenance and long‑term performance of site assets. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, you will play a key role in driving operational improvements, enhancing the visitor experience, and contributing to the commercial and environmental success of the wider business.
Where you’ll work…Wendover Woods, HP22 5NQ
Benefits…Alongside your salary, Forestry England contributes an average of 28.97% towards your pension. You will become a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. 25 days holiday a year, raising by one day every year’s service, up to 30 days (pro‑rated for part‑time employees) plus additional days off such as bank holidays. STaR is our employee benefits scheme offering discounts on everyday supermarket shopping, as well as other items such as hotel stays, clothes, mobile phones, other electrical items, medical and car insurance, holidays, gym discounts, household bills, and the Headspace wellbeing app. Free parking at Forestry England sites and free entry to our National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury. A commitment to lifelong learning through career development. Forestry England will support your career development in a variety of ways, including continual professional development, support for individual learning plans and sponsored membership of professional bodies.
Operations Manager employer: Forest Camping Limited
Forestry England is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in the breathtaking surroundings of Wendover Woods, where you can lead a dedicated team in enhancing visitor experiences while ensuring environmental sustainability. With generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, 25 days of annual leave that increases with service, and a strong commitment to employee development, you will find a supportive work culture that values your growth and well-being. Join us in making a meaningful impact in one of the UK's most cherished natural landscapes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, and connect with others on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Operations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. We recommend practising common interview questions and tailoring your answers to highlight your experience in managing facilities and enhancing visitor experiences. Show them you’re the perfect fit for Wendover Woods!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find and apply for roles that suit your skills. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Forestry England. Let’s get you that Operations Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing facilities, leading teams, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Show Your Passion for Nature:Since this role is all about enhancing visitor experiences in beautiful woodland settings, let your love for nature shine through. Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to environmental success and visitor engagement.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the team!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forest Camping Limited
✨Know Your Woodland
Familiarise yourself with Wendover Woods and its unique features. Understand the visitor experience and the importance of the site within the Chilterns National Landscape. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your passion for the role and how you can enhance the visitor experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Manager, you'll be leading staff and volunteers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your ability to motivate and develop others. Highlight any experience you have in managing health and safety compliance, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Budgeting Brilliance
Be ready to discuss your experience with budget management and contract oversight. Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed resources or improved operational efficiency. This will show that you can handle the financial aspects of the role effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Understand the importance of collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you've built relationships in previous roles and how you plan to engage with various parties to drive operational improvements at Wendover Woods.
