Director of Operations (London Area)

Operations Director – Growing Leisure Brand

c£80k if full time perm

Fixed-Term, 3–6 Months – Potential for Permanent Role

London – Immediate Start

We’re looking for an experienced Operations Director to join a dynamic and fast-growing sports and social business on a fixed-term basis (3–6 months), with the potential to transition into a full-time, permanent role. This is a hands-on, high-impact opportunity for someone passionate about operational excellence and building vibrant, inclusive communities.

About the Role

As Operations Director, you’ll lead the day-to-day running of the business, working across all functions including health & safety, HR, finance, facilities, and team leadership. You’ll be working closely with the founding team and supporting a small, passionate group of individuals focused on delivering high-quality community experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimise all operational processes, ensuring smooth day-to-day functioning across sites and teams
• Lead and support business areas including compliance, safety, staffing, scheduling, financial reporting, and general HR
• Collaborate with team leads to solve operational challenges, streamline workflows, and maintain a high standard of delivery
• Manage relationships with vendors, partners, and contractors
• Support ongoing expansion and development planning
• Contribute to a strong and positive workplace culture rooted in community, inclusivity, and accountability

Who We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in a senior operations role, ideally across diverse functions within hospitality, sport, events, or a community-driven business
• Ability to think strategically and execute tactically, rolling up your sleeves and getting stuck into all levels of the business
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to guide a small, high-performing team
• Strong knowledge of operational compliance, risk, and people management
• Financial literacy and experience overseeing budgets and cost controls
• A self-starter who thrives in fast-paced, evolving environments

Requirements

• Must be based in or near London (4 days on-site / 1 day WFH)
• Available to start immediately
• Right to work in the UK

What’s On Offer

• A fixed-term contract for 3–6 months with competitive compensation
• The potential for a permanent full-time role
• A rare chance to shape the growth of a purpose-driven business rooted in sport, wellbeing, and community

Your recruiter for this role is Helen Horton, Account Director at Love Recruitment and can be contacted simply by applying for the role below. Helen and Love Recruitment specialise in recruitment for the whole fitness and leisure sector and work on a number of jobs in the leisure industry. If keen to be considered please ‘Apply Now’.