At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop teams to enhance customer experiences in leisure facilities.
- Company: Join Freedom Leisure, a leading charitable leisure trust focused on community well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, incremental holidays, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while creating fun and inclusive environments for everyone.
- Qualifications: Experience in leisure operations and strong people management skills are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 37348 - 37348 £ per year.
Join the Energy at Freedom Leisure – Do Good Feel Good! At Freedom Leisure, we’re all about positive vibes, great people and making a real impact. Yes, we run leisure and cultural facilities, gyms, and swimming pools - but at the heart of it all, it’s our people who make the difference.
As one of the UK’s leading charitable leisure trusts, we’re proud of our mission of Improving Lives Through Leisure. We’re here to help communities live healthier, happier lives by making our centres welcoming, inclusive and accessible to everyone - because everyone deserves to feel good. We’re all about delivering amazing customer service with a smile - every single day. We create spaces where people feel at home, supported and inspired. If you’re passionate about helping others and love creating great experiences, you’ll feel right at home with us.
With over 130 centres across England and Wales, there’s loads of room to grow. Many of our team have built amazing careers doing what they love, helping customers day-to-day and making people feel good. We’re proud to be a workplace where everyone is welcome, valued and supported to thrive - because when our team reflects the communities we serve, we all grow stronger together.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to form part of our Head of Department Team as Entertainment Manager at Guildford Spectrum, one of the UK’s largest and most unique leisure centres. In this key leadership role, you will be responsible for overseeing financial growth and increasing customer participation within the Ice and Bowl facilities. You will lead and develop your team to deliver customer service excellence and contribute to the ongoing development of the customer journey and overall member experience, helping you to achieve income and participation targets.
In this role you will have overall responsibility for the programmes, facilities and services within the Ice and Bowl departments. You will act as the primary point of contact for established clubs including Guildford Flames Ice Hockey Club, Bowl leagues and all other clubs, user groups and stakeholders, requiring strong communication and relationship management skills. You will oversee the health and safety, compliance and standards across each department. You will lead on the transformation of the current Bowl facility into the ultimate social entertainment venue, including taking responsibility for the brand new Puttify interactive golf experience. You will have oversight of the growth and development of Strikes Diner and Harvey’s Diner.
While previous Ice, Bowl and Catering operations management experience is desirable, it is not essential. What matters most is a strong commercial awareness, translating to success and a willingness to learn the day to day operation. As part of the Head of Department Team, you will contribute to the wider strategic direction of the centre. You will be part of a management rota, including shifts as Complex Duty Manager. We are looking for someone currently working at Assistant Manager level or above within a medium to large leisure operation with experience of leading teams. You should be able to effectively balance multiple priorities, build and motivate high performing teams and demonstrate a genuine passion for leisure. The ability to work under pressure and deliver to deadlines is essential.
We are committed to ensuring both our colleagues and customers to have the best possible experience. If this sounds like the perfect next step for you, we would love to hear from you.
In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.
Hours: 37 hours a week, Monday to Sunday
Requirements:
- Strong financial awareness with the ability to drive growth and participation
- Commercial awareness that supports a successful and financially viable operations
- Proven people management skills
- Experience in problem solving, organisation, customer service and staff management
- Experience of working within a customer facing, leisure environment
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage priorities
- Confident decision making with the ability to work independently and flexibly
Benefits:
We want you to love coming to work, feeling healthy, happy and valued. That's why we've developed a benefits package with you in mind, so what can we offer you?
- My Staff Shop, our very own staff benefit scheme, gives employees access to a great range of benefits. Get discounts on cinema tickets, travel bookings, high street e-vouchers, gift cards, days out, leisure activities and your day to day spending.
- Discounted Staff membership (including family members)
- Incremental holidays
- Employee Assistance Programme - 24/7 confidential, independent and professional counselling.
- Company pension
- Various insurance and saving schemes
- Financial advice
- Cycle-to-work and Car Leasing tax-efficient schemes (salaried staff only)
- All this as well as fully funded training and career progression opportunities in a team working environment
Closing Date: 29th June 2026
Salary: Up to £37,348 per annum
Freedom Leisure is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Entertainment Manager - Full Time - Guildford Spectrum employer: Freedom Leisure
At Freedom Leisure, we pride ourselves on being a leading charitable leisure trust that prioritises the well-being of our employees and the communities we serve. Our vibrant work culture fosters inclusivity and support, offering extensive career growth opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package, including discounts, wellness programmes, and fully funded training. Join us at Guildford Spectrum, where you can make a meaningful impact while enjoying a fulfilling career in leisure management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Entertainment Manager - Full Time - Guildford Spectrum
✨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!
✨Show Off Your Skills
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 Freedom Leisure. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Freedom Leisure
Don't be shy about reaching out to Freedom Leisure 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 Entertainment Manager - Full Time - Guildford Spectrum
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 Freedom Leisure 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 Freedom Leisure
✨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!
