Duty Manager in Portsmouth

We understand that success is achieved through our people, and we are searching for a committed and passionate Duty Manager to join our growing business. Based at our Hilsea site, you’ll be working 37 hours per week on a fixed rota to ensure the safe running of the pools and surrounding areas. We are looking for people with management and open water lifeguarding experience with a passion for health and wellbeing.

Think community vibes and healthy living - our iconic lidos - Hilsea Lido and Sea Lanes are the ultimate destinations for health, fitness, fun, and training. From sun-soaked swims to community events and family days out, they’re places where people connect, recharge, and create lasting memories. Now, we need you to help more people discover the benefits of being part of our community and turn their visits into long-term commitments.

What your day will look like:

• Through your passion for excellence, every day will bring exceptional experiences for both the customers and members of your team.
• You will lead for your team in setting the highest service standards.
• Drive Customer Satisfaction.
• Help develop and maintain a welcoming environment for all users of the pools.
• Engage with customers and users to the site.
• Have a clear focus on delivering high standards in all areas of the site.
• Deliver on all agreed actions set for you by your line Manager.
• Ensure the pools are safe and all necessary checks have been completed for a smooth and welcoming opening every day.
• Monitor the pool area and ensure all areas are cleaned and maintained to the highest possible standards.
• Be the voice of South Downs Leisure.
• Provide a confident and professional service through developing your knowledge in all areas of the business.
• Show that you have the skills and experience to answer customer questions and provide an excellent service to all users.

Lead, develop and retain great people:

• Support team engagement in both yours and the wider teams.
• Play a part in creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be their best.
• Take a proactive approach to personal development and share your own knowledge to support up-skilling the team.
• Ensure your team are trained at the highest level to provide an exceptional service.

Deliver on safety and operational standards:

• Follow and implement all cash handling and security policies & processes.
• Take ownership and responsibility for areas of health and safety and reporting of any defects.
• Complete any actions set for you by your line Manager which focus on both what the customer sees and experiences.
• Carry out water testing and all other necessary pool checks.
• Have the confidence to react to any first aid situations appropriately and with compassion as necessary.

What We’re Looking For:

Your Energy:

• A confident and professional person who can lead and manage a team.
• A natural people person who enjoys talking, connecting, and inspiring action.
• Motivated by providing a safe and welcoming environment for all swimmers where they can develop and enjoy using the pool.
• Passionate about health, fitness, and community involvement and development.

Your Experience:

• Experience in line managing a successful and engaging team.
• Focused and motivated to ensure customer expectations are exceeded.
• Developed confidence with interacting with customers in both friendly and assertive situations.
• Operational Duty Manager experience with Health and safety and COSHH understanding.

Your Approach:

• Approachable, positive, and confident in your abilities.
• Resilient and able to bounce back from challenges.
• A team player who supports others.
• Independent and able to stay motivated when working alone.

What You’ll Get from Us:

• 37 hours per week on 7 days a week rota.
• Full training and ongoing support.
• Competitive contractual pay. Currently, £24,411 - £27,204 per annum (subject to increase if applicable).
• Staff perks including: Super discounted membership at all South Downs Leisure sites, a day off on your birthday, Cycle to Work scheme.
• A supportive and fun team who love what they do.
• The chance to make a real impact in your community by working with an award-winning Leisure Trust and more.

Our Values:

• We put the customer first.
• We create safe, inclusive, and memorable experiences for all.
• Make it happen.
• We thrive on challenges, chase goals, and always aim higher.
• Our people, our success.
• We grow together, supporting, celebrating, and winning as a team.
• We’re Inclusive.
• We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

If you require any adjustments to support your application, just let us know.

Ready to Jump In?

If you’re passionate, proactive, and ready to grow our new lifeguarding team, we want to hear from you.