At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to enhance leisure centres and cultural venues.
- Company: Join a leading charitable leisure trust dedicated to improving lives.
- Benefits: Electric car, performance bonuses, enhanced pension, and discounted memberships.
- Other info: Flexible working with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in communities while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management and team leadership in the leisure sector.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Operations Director to lead the strategic and operational performance of our leisure centres and cultural venues. You will lead Regional Managers, drive commercial results, ensure exceptional service delivery and play a key role in shaping our organisational strategy as part of the Executive Team.
Responsibilities:
- Lead, support and develop Regional Managers to achieve financial and operational targets.
- Ensure high-quality service delivery and well-maintained facilities across all centres.
- Drive customer-focused programming and ensure services reflect our Diversity & Inclusion commitments.
- Act as a senior liaison with local authority partners and maintain strong contract performance.
- Participate fully in the Executive Team decision-making processes.
- Contribute to business planning, strategic development and tender submissions.
- Champion positive leadership, clear communication and a high-performance culture across your teams.
The successful candidate will have significant experience in operational management within the leisure sector, along with the ability to build, lead and motivate high-performing teams. You will also have experience of business planning, developing operational strategy and playing a key role in tender processes and contract mobilisation.
Well-developed interpersonal skills, able to negotiate and influence people both internally and externally. Team-oriented approach; able to work across organisation boundaries and demonstrate interest in and be supportive of colleagues. Able to work flexibly with a high level of autonomy. Mobility to travel across sites. Good communication and presentation skills; able to think on your feet and respond to difficult questions. Excellent time management skills - able to deal with a number of priorities at once and keep total workload in hand. A self-starter who inspires others with their passion and energy. Education to degree level or equivalent is advantageous but not essential.
About us:
As one of the UK’s leading charitable leisure trusts, we are proud of our mission of Improving Lives Through Leisure. We are 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 are all about delivering amazing customer service and creating spaces where people feel at home, supported and inspired. We want you to love coming to work, feeling healthy, happy and valued. That’s why we have developed a benefits package with you in mind.
Benefits:
- Company electric car plus car allowance
- Up to 10% of annual salary Discretionary Performance Bonus Scheme
- Company pension with enhanced employer contribution rates
- Contribution towards private medical insurance
- My Staff Shop; our very own staff benefit scheme, gives employees access to a great range of benefits.
- Discounted Staff membership (including family members)
- Incremental holidays
Operations Director - Full Time in South Chailey employer: Freedom Leisure
As a leading charitable leisure trust in the UK, we pride ourselves on our mission of Improving Lives Through Leisure, fostering a work culture that prioritises inclusivity, community engagement, and exceptional service delivery. Our Operations Director will thrive in an environment that champions professional growth, offers a competitive benefits package including a company electric car, performance bonuses, and a supportive atmosphere where every team member is valued and inspired to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director - Full Time in South Chailey
✨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 Operations Director - Full Time in South Chailey
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!
