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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dynamic team while shaping the future of Walesby Forest.
- Company: Walesby Forest, a leading educational adventure centre in Sherwood Forest.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, pension scheme, and on-site parking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a thriving outdoor environment with a focus on youth inspiration.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in leisure, tourism, or not-for-profit sectors.
- Other info: Join a nationally recognised organisation and enjoy a unique natural setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Walesby Forest
Walesby Forest is a commercially successful, not-for-profit organisation attracting an annual footfall of circa 200,000 visitors. Set in 250 acres of stunning Sherwood Forest, we offer more than 30 adventure activities alongside accommodation, catering, retail, and event facilities. Our reputation as a leading educational adventure centre is underpinned by industry accreditations and national awards, including recognition for our apprenticeship programmes.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an inspirational and dynamic Chief Executive to lead Walesby Forest into its next exciting chapter. This is a unique opportunity to combine strategic vision with hands-on leadership in a thriving outdoor environment. You will be the figurehead of the organisation, driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence while safeguarding our charitable ethos.
What You’ll Do
- Provide visionary leadership and deliver Walesby Forest’s long-term strategy.
- Develop new commercial revenue streams and secure major events.
- Lead and motivate a diverse team of staff and volunteers.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety and safeguarding standards.
- Build strong relationships with schools, youth organisations, event organisers, and the wider community.
What We’re Looking For
- A proven senior leader with experience in leisure, tourism, visitor attractions, or not-for-profit sectors.
- Strong commercial acumen and financial management skills.
- Demonstrable success in marketing, fundraising, and attracting large-scale events.
- Exceptional people leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A passion for inspiring young people and delivering outstanding visitor experiences.
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, and on-site parking.
- The chance to shape the future of a nationally recognised organisation in a unique natural setting.
Closing date for applications: Friday 6th February 2026
Chief Executive employer: Walesby Forest
Contact Detail:
Walesby Forest Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent achievements. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in leading Walesby Forest.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss how you've motivated teams and driven growth in previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your impact and how you can bring that to Walesby Forest.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in leading Walesby Forest and inspiring young people. Share what excites you about this opportunity!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in leisure, tourism, or not-for-profit sectors. We’re looking for someone with a proven track record, so connect your past roles to the responsibilities of the Chief Executive position.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and vision for Walesby Forest.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Walesby Forest.
How to prepare for a job interview at Walesby Forest
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to think about your vision for Walesby Forest. Be ready to discuss how you would lead the organisation into its next chapter and what innovative ideas you have to drive growth and operational excellence.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led diverse teams in the past. Highlight your people leadership skills and how you motivate staff and volunteers, as this role requires someone who can inspire others in a dynamic outdoor environment.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen
Be ready to talk about your experience in developing new revenue streams and securing major events. Bring specific examples of successful marketing or fundraising initiatives you've led, as this will show your strong commercial acumen.
✨Engage with the Community
Walesby Forest values strong relationships with schools and youth organisations. Think about how you can build these connections and be prepared to discuss your strategies for stakeholder engagement during the interview.
