At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Ethos Sports Centre, inspiring a high-performing team and enhancing customer experience.
- Company: Imperial College London, a prestigious institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: 43 days' annual leave, generous pension schemes, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a flagship sports centre while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing sports or leisure facilities and strong team leadership abilities.
The predicted salary is between 48246 - 58318 £ per year.
Imperial College London is looking for an experienced Centre Manager to lead the day-to-day operation of Ethos, its flagship sports centre.
The Role
This 13-month fixed-term contract covers sabbatical leave, with an expected start in mid-February 2027. You will take ownership of the service, inspire and develop a high-performing team, and drive improvements across customer experience, operational standards and performance. With responsibility for wet- and dry-side facilities, you will manage the operational, financial and commercial demands of a busy, high-profile facility serving students, staff, commercial partners and the wider Imperial community.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operation of the Ethos Sports Centre
- Lead, manage and develop the centre team
- Maintain high standards of health and safety, compliance and customer service
- Manage budgets, commercial relationships, bookings and resources
- Drive continuous improvement across the centre
- Build positive relationships with colleagues, partners and contractors
About You
- Significant experience managing a busy sports, leisure or comparable facility, across wet- and dry-side operations
- A proven track record of leading and developing teams
- Strong knowledge of health and safety, compliance and operational procedures
- Experience managing budgets, commercial relationships and bookings
- Excellent communication, organisation and decision-making skills
- Flexibility to provide operational cover Monday to Sunday when required
Key Details
- Location: Ethos Sports Centre, South Kensington, London
- Contract: Full-time, 13-month fixed term (expected start mid-February 2027)
- Salary: £48,246 - £58,318
- Working pattern: Mainly Monday to Friday, with hybrid working considered after probation
- Benefits include 43 days' annual leave, generous pension schemes and a flexible working policy
- Interviews: 25-26 November 2026
- Closing date: 17 November 2026 (midnight)
Ethos Sports Centre Manager (13-Month FTC) in London employer: Imperial College London
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation within the International Relations Office. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, a commitment to diversity, and the chance to engage in meaningful projects that have a global impact, all set in the heart of one of the world's leading academic institutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ethos Sports Centre Manager (13-Month FTC) in London
✨Get Active in Local Sports Circles
Dive into local sports clubs and recreation centres where you'll find temporary opportunities popping up all the time. Join community events or volunteer at local tournaments to meet folks in the sports-recreation management scene and make a name for yourself!
✨Utilise Seasonal Hiring Spikes
Keep an eye out for peak seasons in the sports world, like holidays or major events. Companies like Imperial College London might ramp up hiring for those times, so get your name out there early by visiting their booths at career fairs or sports expos!
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're studying, don’t forget about your uni’s career services. They often have connections to temporary roles in sports-recreation management that might not even hit public job boards. Get in touch and see who they know!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Create a portfolio showcasing your skills in sports-recreation management – think about events you've organised, teams you've coached, or projects you've led. Share this on social media to catch the eye of potential employers like Imperial College London and boost your visibility in the field!
We think you need these skills to ace Ethos Sports Centre Manager (13-Month FTC) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:In your CV and cover letter, we need to see your love for sports and recreation shining through! Mention any relevant experiences, like managing events, coaching, or even volunteering in local sports clubs. This is key for Ethos Sports Centre Manager (13-Month FTC) at Imperial College London!
Tailor Your CV for Temporary Work:Given that this is a temporary role, highlight your adaptability and willingness to jump in and learn quickly. Include any past temporary roles or projects that showcase your ability to work in fast-paced environments, as it’ll show you can hit the ground running at Imperial College London.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications relevant to sports management or health and safety (like first aid or sports coaching), make sure they’re front and centre in your application. These can set you apart from other candidates for Ethos Sports Centre Manager (13-Month FTC) at Imperial College London.
Use Engaging Language and a Conversational Tone:When writing your cover letter, keep it friendly and engaging! We want to see your personality come through, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to Imperial College London's team in a fun, vibrant way.
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Show Off Your Event Management Skills
In the sports and recreation management field, being able to organise events is key. Come prepared with examples of events you've managed, whether in your studies or in past experiences. Highlight how you tackled challenges and kept everything running smoothly – this will show that you're ready for the fast-paced nature of potential roles at Imperial College London.
✨Know the Latest Trends in Sports Management
Being in the know about current trends can give you a real edge. Keep yourself updated on the latest developments in sports management, like sustainability initiatives or digital engagement strategies. Dropping a few insights during your interview with Imperial College London will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to the field.
✨Focus on Your Adaptability
As a temporary role, adaptability is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've handled sudden changes or unexpected situations in previous jobs or projects. Emphasise your flexibility and willingness to learn quickly, as these traits will reassure Imperial College London that you can handle whatever comes your way.
✨Pitch Your Unique Value
In a temporary position, companies want to know what unique skills you bring to the table. Make sure to highlight specific skills or experiences that set you apart, especially in relation to sports management, like knowledge of sports psychology or community engagement. Presenting yourself as a unique asset can help cement your position with Imperial College London.
