Assistant Duty Manager

This review offers an in-depth look at an exciting opportunity to contribute to the vibrant sporting landscape at the University of Leeds. If you have a passion for sports facility management and a drive for excellence, this role could be a significant step in your career progression.

The Opportunity: Shaping Premier Sports Facilities

The University of Leeds has demonstrated a strong commitment to its outdoor sporting facilities with substantial investments, including a £9.3 million upgrade to the Sports Park Bodington site. This has resulted in state-of-the-art facilities such as a new Football Community Pavilion and three FIFA Quality 3G pitches. Further enhancements, including the Brownlee Centre and a 1.6km closed-road circuit, underscore the university's dedication to providing world-class sporting environments. This role, based at the Weetwood Pavilion in Leeds, places you at the heart of these exceptional facilities.

Key Responsibilities and Advantages for Candidates

As a key member of the team, reporting to the Facility Manager, you will be instrumental in the daily operations of these impressive outdoor sports facilities. Your contributions will directly impact the user experience, ensuring that:

• Operational Excellence: You will assist in the supervision of operational staff, contributing to the smooth and efficient running of the facilities. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your leadership and team management skills.
• Exceptional Customer Service: A core aspect of this role is ensuring that all customers and visitors receive outstanding service. This focus on customer satisfaction will hone your interpersonal and communication abilities, essential for career growth in any service-oriented field.
• Facility Maintenance and Safety: You will play a vital role in maintaining the pristine condition and safety of the facilities. This hands-on experience in facility presentation and upkeep will be invaluable, building your understanding of operational standards.

Career Development and Benefits

This position offers a compelling package of benefits designed to support your work-life balance and professional growth:

• Generous Leave: Enjoy 26 days of annual leave plus approximately 16 Bank Holidays and university closure days, totaling an impressive 42 days of annual leave per year. This is a significant advantage for maintaining well-being.
• Pension Scheme: Benefit from generous pension scheme options, including life assurance, providing financial security for your future.
• Health and Wellbeing: Gain access to discounted staff membership at The Edge, a state-of-the-art campus gym featuring a pool, sauna, climbing wall, and more. This promotes an active and healthy lifestyle.
• Personal Development: The University of Leeds is committed to your growth. You will have access to courses run by the Organisational Development & Professional Learning team, offering opportunities to enhance your skill set.
• Additional Perks: Further benefits include access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts, and travel schemes, adding to the overall value of this employment opportunity.

Key Considerations for Your Application

To thrive in this role, consider the following requirements and aspects:

• Experience: Proven experience in a supervisory capacity within a sports or leisure facility is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate a track record of maintaining high standards in facility presentation and customer service.
• Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are paramount. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team is also crucial.
• Qualifications: A relevant first aid qualification and a food hygiene certificate are required.
• Working Hours: This is a full-time role operating on a 5 over 7 shift basis. Be prepared for early morning starts (6 am) and late finishes (11 pm), including working weekends, University closure days, and Bank Holidays. This demanding schedule is typical for operational roles in high-demand facilities but requires careful personal planning.
• Visa Sponsorship: Please note that this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates will need to possess independent work authorization for the UK.
• Interview Timeline: Interviews are anticipated to take place during the week commencing 10 November 2025.

This position offers a unique chance to be part of a dynamic and evolving sporting environment at a prestigious university. If you meet the criteria and are eager to contribute to maintaining and enhancing top-tier sports facilities, this role represents a valuable opportunity for career advancement and personal development.