At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and business development to drive strategic growth and effectiveness.
- Company: Join The Burton, a vibrant organisation focused on community and culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and potential for permanent role.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a leadership role with diverse responsibilities.
- Qualifications: Strategic thinker with financial acumen and collaborative skills.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 75000 £ 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.
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.
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:
Application deadline: 10am, Tuesday 1 September 2026
First interviews: Monday 14 September 2026
Second interviews: Date to be confirmed.
Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) in Northam employer: Visual Arts South West
Visual Arts South West is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant work culture focused on creativity and community engagement. With a commitment to employee growth, this part-time role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in Weston-super-Mare, collaborating with local artists and residents to enrich the cultural landscape. Enjoy the benefits of flexible working hours and the chance to connect with nature while contributing to the community's artistic development.
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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