Centre Manager - Youlbury

The Scouts Association UK; Boars Hill; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A national outdoor activity organization is seeking a Centre Manager to oversee operations at Youlbury. This role involves managing staff and volunteers, ensuring a high-quality experience for visitors, and handling budgets. You'll live on-site in a beautiful woodland setting, participating fully in community life. Benefits include generous holiday, pension contributions, and a supportive environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences.

Benefits

28 days holiday (increasing to 32 after 2 years)

Double-matched pension contributions up to 10%

Access to training and development

Qualifications

• Experience managing teams in a busy, customer-focused environment.
• Confidence working with budgets and health & safety.
• A passion for outdoor learning and values-led work.

Responsibilities

• Lead, support, and develop staff and volunteers.
• Oversee operations, including accommodation and catering.
• Manage budgets and contribute to financial planning.

Skills

Leadership in operational environments

Budget management

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Job description

Youlbury is part of Scout Adventures, a national network of outdoor activity centres that inspire thousands of young people every year. As Centre Manager, you will have overall responsibility for the safe, inclusive, and effective running of the centre. You will lead a diverse team of staff and volunteers across outdoor activities, accommodation, catering, and customer service, ensuring every visitor receives a welcoming, high‑quality experience. Living on site allows you to be fully immersed in centre life and respond quickly to operational needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead, support and develop staff and volunteers
• Oversee day‑to‑day operations, including accommodation, catering, activities and events
• Ensure safe, smooth and memorable experiences for all visitors
• Manage budgets and contribute to financial planning and sustainability
• Build strong relationships with volunteers, Scout groups, partners and the local community

Qualifications & experience

• Experience managing teams in a busy, customer‑focused or operational environment
• Confidence working with budgets, health & safety and operational planning
• A hands‑on, adaptable leadership style and a calm approach to problem‑solving
• A passion for outdoor learning and values‑led work
• Strong organisational, communication and decision‑making skills

We are an equal opportunities employer

The Scouts is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We offer flexible working arrangements to support diverse needs and lifestyles, ensuring that our teams can thrive both professionally and personally. We welcome and encourage applicants from all walks of life, believing that varied perspectives strengthen our innovation and community. Your unique experiences and ideas are essential to our success, and we look forward to hearing from all voices.

Why live and work at Youlbury?

This role offers more than a job – it offers a fulfilling lifestyle. You’ll live and work in a beautiful woodland setting, surrounded by nature and outdoor adventure. On‑site accommodation means no commute and the opportunity to be fully involved in a supportive, purpose‑driven community.

Benefits

• 28 days holiday (rising to 32 after 2 years), plus extra days at Christmas
• Double‑matched pension contributions up to 10%
• Award‑winning Charity of the Year (Charity Times Awards 2022)
• Family‑friendly policies and generous leave
• Access to training and development through our internal learning hub