Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and enhance guest experiences at a premier racecourse and hotel.
- Company: Join Newbury Racecourse, a top venue for racing, events, and hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, private healthcare, and discounted childcare.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping unforgettable events and experiences.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in operational planning and event delivery required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Newbury Racecourse is an award-winning sporting venue with a multi-functional site playing host to more than 30 racedays a year plus a wide range of other events including concerts, conferences and exhibitions. We are also home to a 36-bedroom hotel, The Lodge and a leading children’s nursery, Rocking Horse Nursery.
We have an exciting new opportunity for an experienced individual to take up the role of Operations and Guest Experience Director. This is a pivotal appointment for a qualified and talented professional to join our leadership team and play a key role in the success of the racecourse, taking responsibility for all raceday and non-raceday operations along with commercial development of our on-site hotel.
Reporting into the Chief Executive, the successful candidate will ensure delivery of a first-class venue and customer experience, whilst ensuring excellent and consistent health and safety standards. The role will encompass full control of:
- Event and raceday operations - strategic event coordination to ensure the delivery of a safe, first-class event
- Line management of the Operations Manager, Hotel Manager and QSHE Coordinator
- Leading on our customer experience strategy
- Health and Safety, ensuring the business remains best in class and fully compliant with all regulations and legislation
- Budget management and reporting
- Management of the following areas: Cleaning, Traffic, Stewarding and Security
- Overseeing the management and commercial development of the on-site hotel
You will need:
- Significant depth of experience and demonstrable success in operational planning
- A successful track record of events delivery within a comparable venue, with detailed knowledge of crowd dynamics
- Detailed understanding of Health and Safety management supported by appropriate qualifications
- Outstanding communications skills, natural ability to engage with and manage senior stakeholders (both internal and external)
- Dynamism and presence, ability to act as an ambassador for the racecourse
In return we offer a competitive salary and attractive benefits scheme including:
- 25 days holiday per year + Bank Holidays + days in lieu for weekend racedays worked
- Free annual membership to the Racecourse
- Reduced rate childcare at the Rocking Horse Nursery on-site
- Contributory pension scheme matched up to 5%
- Private healthcare scheme
- Life assurance scheme
- Discounted Health Club membership
- Opportunities for training and career growth
To apply please email your CV and covering letter including current remuneration details to Hugh Nickerson at Conundrum search@conundrum.co.uk. All direct and third party responses will be forwarded to Conundrum.
Contact Detail:
Newbury Racecourse Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations and Guest Experience Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Newbury Racecourse and its operations. Understanding the venue's unique offerings, such as the hotel and nursery, will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the events and hospitality industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role or the organisation, which can give you an edge in discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with health and safety management in detail. Given the importance of compliance in this role, be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully implemented safety protocols in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've effectively managed teams in high-pressure environments. Highlighting your ability to lead diverse teams will resonate well with the expectations for this director position.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations and Guest Experience Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Operations and Guest Experience Director position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications to tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Tailored CV: Highlight your relevant experience in operational planning and event delivery. Use specific examples that demonstrate your success in similar roles, particularly in managing events and ensuring health and safety compliance.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for enhancing guest experiences and operational excellence. Address how your skills align with the company's goals and mention any specific achievements that relate to the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the role you are applying for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newbury Racecourse
✨Showcase Your Operational Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in operational planning and event delivery. Highlight specific examples where you successfully managed events, focusing on your understanding of crowd dynamics and how you ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for guests.
✨Demonstrate Health and Safety Knowledge
Since health and safety is a key aspect of the role, make sure to articulate your qualifications and experiences related to health and safety management. Discuss any relevant certifications you hold and how you've implemented best practices in past roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss your communication skills and how you engage with senior stakeholders. Think of examples where you successfully managed relationships, resolved conflicts, or collaborated with various teams to achieve common goals.
✨Exhibit Your Leadership Style
As this role involves leading a team, be ready to share your leadership philosophy. Talk about your approach to managing teams, fostering a positive work environment, and how you motivate others to deliver exceptional customer experiences.
