At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and business development to drive strategic growth at The Burton.
- Company: Join a dynamic arts organisation committed to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and potential for permanent role.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting journey in a pivotal leadership role.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations and leadership; passion for the arts is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) for The Burton at Bideford. The Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) is a new senior leadership role that will work in close partnership with the Director and Board of Trustees to improve strategic effectiveness and sustainable growth. Created to support the next stage in The Burton's development, this role will translate strategic ambition into practical delivery, ensuring the organisation has the leadership, systems and operational capability needed to achieve its long-term goals.
The Deputy Director will lead organisational planning, internal operations, financial planning and performance, while supporting business development, commercial activity and income growth. They will oversee the systems, processes and infrastructure that enable The Burton to operate effectively, make informed decisions and deliver its ambitions.
Job Details
- Contract: Full time (37.5 hours per week)
- Duration: Two-year fixed-term contract. We hope this role will become a permanent part of our senior leadership team, subject to securing sustainable funding. There is a three-month probationary period.
- Salary: £45,000 per year
- Hours: The Burton works on a 7-day rota and the hours can be worked flexibly over the full week dependent on operational need. Some weekend and evening work will be required on a rota basis.
- Location: The Burton at Bideford, EX39 2QQ. Occasional flexible/home-working is offered but the majority of the working week will be at The Burton.
- Responsible to: Director
- Responsible for: Commercial Operations Manager, Finance Officer, Operations and Front of House Coordinator
Person Specification
Potential applicants may already be in a similar role or feel ready to take the next step in developing their careers and contributing to an ambitious organisation at a pivotal moment of its journey. Experience of working within the arts or charity sector may be an advantage to this role but is not a requirement - we are excited to explore transferable skills from other sectors. You do not need to meet all of the person specification but we are excited to meet candidates with:
- Significant experience in operations, business development and/or a senior leadership role.
- An ability to translate strategy into practical delivery, balancing competing priorities within a small or medium-sized organisation.
- Demonstrable experience contributing to organisational planning, budgeting and performance management.
- Confidence using financial information, budgets and management reporting to support decisions.
- Experience supporting income generation through commercial activity, partnerships, fundraising or business development.
- Experience leading, supporting and developing teams and creating collaborative working cultures.
- An understanding of HR process and experience in policy development.
- Experience as a designated safeguarding lead or a willingness to complete a level three safeguarding training and undergo an enhanced DBS check.
- A track record of improving systems, processes or ways of working to increase organisational effectiveness.
- Strong communication, relationship-building and influencing skills with a range of stakeholders.
- An understanding of governance, risk and compliance within a charity, public or mission‑led environment.
- Experience working in museums, galleries, charities, visitor economy, public sector or mission‑led organisations.
- An understanding of charity finance, restricted/designated funding, grant reporting and project accounting.
- Part‑qualified or qualified finance qualification (for example AAT Level 4, CIMA, ACCA, ACA) or equivalent professional experience with an understanding of cloud‑based accounting software (Xero desirable).
We are looking for someone who is:
- Strategic but enjoys making things happen.
- Financially confident and commercially aware.
- Able to build trust and work collaboratively.
- Comfortable moving between strategic thinking and operational delivery.
- Excited to work in a small organisation where responsibilities are varied and interconnected.
Key Dates
If you have any questions while making your application, require this information in a different format or would like to have an informal discussion about the role please get in touch with Jo Jones, Company Secretary. Application deadline: 10am, Tuesday 1 September 2026. First interviews: Monday 14 September 2026. Second interviews: Date to be confirmed.
The Burton at Bideford is an equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer who understands the benefits of diversity so that everyone - irrespective of individual identities, background, or any personal characteristics - receives fair and equal treatment in a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable environment.
Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) employer: The Burton at Bideford
The Burton at Bideford is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture, where your contributions directly impact the community. With a focus on employee growth and development, you will have access to unique opportunities for professional advancement in a small charity setting, all while working in the picturesque location of Bideford. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values innovation and operational excellence, making a meaningful difference in people's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development)
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We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Leadership Skills:In the corporate leadership and management field, it's essential to highlight your leadership experience. Use your CV to flesh out examples of how you've led teams to success or managed significant projects. We want to see specific instances where your actions made a tangible difference in your previous roles!
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How to prepare for a job interview at The Burton at Bideford
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You’ll want to thoroughly convey your unique approach to leadership. During the interview with The Burton at Bideford, be ready to share real-life examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific achievements that illustrate your strategic thinking and your ability to drive results.
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Expect some technical questions related to management theories and practices. Brush up on concepts like transformational leadership, servant leadership, or situational leadership. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these theories to the role at The Burton at Bideford, especially in the specific context of the challenges they’re currently facing.
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Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for The Burton at Bideford could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
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In corporate leadership, team dynamics and organisational culture are everything. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive work environment in previous roles. Bring up examples of how you've managed diverse teams effectively—this will resonate well at The Burton at Bideford as they’re likely seeking a candidate who can enhance their workplace culture.
