Operations Manager

Job Opportunity Review: Operations Manager, Surrey Sports Park

The University of Surrey is embarking on an ambitious journey to become one of the world's leading universities, driven by a commitment to groundbreaking research and transformative education. At the heart of this vision lies a culture that empowers its people to make a significant impact. For ambitious professionals seeking to contribute to a dynamic and forward-thinking institution, this opportunity within the Surrey Sports Park presents a compelling career prospect.

This role is designed for an individual with a strong operational acumen and a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences within a high-volume sports and fitness environment. As the Operations Manager, you will be at the forefront of ensuring the daily success of Surrey Sports Park, a vibrant hub for the university community and beyond.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Leadership: Take direct responsibility for the daily operations of a significant university facility. Your leadership will shape the experience of thousands of users, from students and staff to wider community members.
• Professional Development: The role emphasizes staff development, offering opportunities to mentor, train, and manage a team. This is a chance to hone your people management skills and foster a high-performing culture.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: You will work closely with a variety of teams, including Sports & Fitness Programs, Client Services, Front of House, and Events. This provides invaluable exposure to different facets of university operations and enhances your understanding of organizational synergy.
• Strategic Contribution: Your efforts will directly contribute to achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and financial targets, demonstrating your ability to drive operational efficiency and commercial success within a prestigious academic setting.
• Culture of Excellence: Become part of a university that values employee endeavor and fosters a culture of empowerment. This is an environment where your contributions are recognized and you are encouraged to make a real difference.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Operational Autonomy: While working under the guidance of the Facilities Manager, this role offers significant autonomy in managing day-to-day operations. Candidates should be comfortable with taking initiative, problem-solving independently, and prioritizing effectively.
• Customer-Centric Focus: The emphasis on excellent customer service means candidates must possess strong interpersonal skills and a genuine commitment to creating positive guest experiences.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The dynamic nature of a sports park environment requires adaptability to manage various programmes, events, and potential unforeseen circumstances. The ability to maintain composure and deliver under pressure is essential.
• Team Management Expertise: Full responsibility for the operations team, including recruitment, performance management, and development, is a core component of this role. Proven experience in leading and motivating teams is highly beneficial.
• Commitment to Safety and Compliance: Upholding health and safety standards is paramount. Candidates must demonstrate a thorough understanding of and commitment to safety protocols and regulatory compliance.

This role is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced operations professional to step into a leadership position within a world-class university. If you are driven by excellence, passionate about people, and eager to contribute to an institution with a bold vision, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.