At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead visitor operations and enhance the experience at Burghley House.
- Company: Join one of England’s iconic heritage destinations with a passionate team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for hybrid working, and a chance to shape visitor experiences.
- Other info: We encourage applications from underrepresented backgrounds; equal opportunity employer.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on a historic estate while inspiring diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in visitor operations and a passion for heritage and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Head of Visitor Operations
Permanent, Full-time, principally site-based at Burghley House (with potential for seasonal hybrid working).
Be part of the future of one of England’s greatest heritage destinations.
Burghley House is one of the UK’s most iconic Elizabethan estates, welcoming c180,000 visitors every year to its magnificent House, Gardens and Parkland.
We’re looking for an inspiring, commercially minded Head of Visitor Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team and shape every aspect of the visitor experience.
This is a rare opportunity to lead the teams that bring Burghley to life—from Visitor Services and Learning & Education to Retail, Catering, Hospitality, Security and wider site operations.
This isn’t a traditional estates or facilities role.
We’re seeking a modern operational leader who understands today’s audiences, can deliver exceptional customer experiences and knows how to balance heritage, education and commercial success.
- What you’ll do
- Lead Burghley’s visitor operations strategy and help shape the organisation’s future.
- Champion outstanding visitor experiences, accessibility and public engagement.
- Drive innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Inspire and develop high-performing teams across multiple visitor-facing departments.
- Use data and tech to deliver strong commercial performance while protecting Burghley’s heritage and charitable purpose.
- Ensure the highest standards of safety, security and operational resilience.
About you
You’ll be an experienced leader with a track record of managing complex visitor operations, leading change and inspiring people.
You’ll combine strategic thinking with hands-on operational expertise and be passionate about creating memorable experiences for diverse audiences.
We’re particularly interested in candidates with experience in heritage, culture, tourism, leisure or other high-volume visitor attractions, alongside strong commercial awareness and exceptional leadership skills.
Why Burghley?
This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact at one of Britain’s finest heritage attractions.
You’ll work alongside a passionate team, influencing the future direction of the estate and helping ensure Burghley continues to delight and inspire generations of visitors.
Further information on the role can be found here.
If you’re an ambitious, collaborative leader with a passion for visitor experience, heritage and innovation, we’d love to hear from you.
We welcome applications from individuals of underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. Burghley is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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Burghley House: Head of Visitor Operations employer: Museums & Heritage Show
Burghley House offers a unique opportunity to lead visitor operations at one of England's most iconic heritage sites, where you can make a significant impact on the visitor experience. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, you'll be part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving and enhancing Burghley's rich history while ensuring exceptional service for over 180,000 annual visitors. The supportive work culture and commitment to diversity make Burghley an excellent employer for those looking to thrive in a meaningful role within the heritage and tourism sector.
Contact Details:
Museums & Heritage Show Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Burghley House: Head of Visitor Operations
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We think you need these skills to ace Burghley House: Head of Visitor Operations
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