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- Tasks: Lead and grow a diverse commercial portfolio in a historic heritage site.
- Company: Join a mission-driven college and heritage site near Hailsham.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-related bonus, and creative freedom.
- Why this job: Shape a commercial operation that preserves history for future generations.
- Qualifications: Strong track record in senior commercial leadership, ideally in hospitality or events.
- Other info: Unique opportunity to innovate and make a lasting impact.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 75000 £ per year.
Salary £70,000 to £75,000 + performance related bonus
Step into a role where commercial ambition meets historic beauty. We are working in partnership with a well-known College and Heritage Site, based near Hailsham. We are seeking an exceptional Commercial Director to build, lead and grow a diverse commercial portfolio spanning hospitality, events, weddings, retail, visitor income, accommodation, property lettings and new ventures. This is a rare opportunity to take a mission-driven heritage environment and unlock its full commercial potential with a direct impact on preserving the Site for generations to come.
A role with purpose, scale and creative freedom. This newly created senior leadership position carries full accountability for delivering an annual net surplus of around £1 million, supporting the long-term sustainability of the estate. You will set the commercial strategy, shape new revenue streams, and lead hands-on operational delivery while developing a high performing team around you. From expanding hospitality and events, to forging partnerships, to reimagining visitor experiences, you will have the autonomy to innovate and the platform to make a lasting difference.
What you'll lead:
- Development and delivery of a multi-year commercial strategy aligned with the College's charitable mission
- Growth of diverse income streams including hospitality, weddings, events, retail, accommodation and estate lettings
- Exploration and launch of new ventures and commercial partnerships
- Full P&L responsibility, budgeting, forecasting and financial planning
- Operational oversight across all commercial services, ensuring excellence and efficiency
- Leadership of the Commercial Operations Manager and the wider commercial team as it grows
- Governance, compliance and risk management across all trading activity
- Representation of the Heritage Site and College as a senior ambassador and commercial lead
Who we're looking for:
You’ll bring a strong track record of senior commercial leadership, ideally across hospitality, events, visitor attractions, estates or mixed-use environments. A background in sales, networking, business development or relationship-driven roles within hospitality, events or the charity sector will be highly advantageous. This is a role where influence, partnerships and creative deal making matter. You’ll be financially astute, operationally confident and energised by the challenge of building something ambitious within a values-driven, charitable setting. You’ll combine creativity with commercial discipline, and you’ll be as comfortable shaping strategy as you are rolling up your sleeves in the early stages. Above all, you’ll be motivated by the opportunity to protect and enhance a remarkable heritage site through sustainable commercial success. You must be able to work on site near Hailsham and therefore reasonable commuting distance.
What makes this opportunity unique:
- A chance to shape a commercial operation from the ground up
- A stunning heritage environment with untapped potential
- A mission-led organisation where commercial success directly supports preservation and education
- The autonomy to innovate, diversify and grow
- A leadership role with visibility, influence and long-term impact
Bonus and performance:
The role includes eligibility for a performance related bonus of up to 10-20% of net income after threshold, based on delivery of the annual surplus target and wider commercial KPIs.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you are passionate about this unique opportunity and want to know more, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and this unique environment unlock their commercial advantage and continue to thrive for generations to come. email: team@gogecko.org.uk
Commercial Director in Hailsham employer: Gogecko Ltd
Contact Detail:
Gogecko Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Director in Hailsham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show up and shine! If you get the chance to attend interviews or networking events, make sure you’re prepared to showcase your skills and passion. Bring your A-game, and don’t forget to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Commercial Director.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or interviews. A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to the heritage site’s commercial success.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to submit your application. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission-driven team. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Director in Hailsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see how your passion for heritage and commercial success aligns with our mission. Make it personal and relatable!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! We’re looking for specific experiences that highlight your leadership in commercial roles, especially in hospitality or events. Tailor your CV to reflect how your background fits the unique challenges of this position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit. Use it to connect your skills and experiences directly to the job description. We love seeing creativity and strategic thinking in action!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gogecko Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Commercial Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics like P&L statements, budgeting, and forecasting. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets in the past and how you plan to achieve that £1 million surplus.
✨Showcase Your Creative Side
This role is all about innovation and creativity. Prepare examples of how you've developed new revenue streams or reimagined visitor experiences in previous roles. Think outside the box and be ready to share your vision for the heritage site.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a growing team, so it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Share specific instances where you've built high-performing teams or fostered collaboration. Discuss your approach to governance and compliance, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Align with Their Mission
This position is deeply tied to the College's charitable mission. Research their values and be prepared to articulate how your commercial strategies can support their goals. Show genuine passion for preserving heritage and how you can make a lasting impact.
