Chief Operating Officer & Deputy CEO

The Sussex Archaeological Society; Lewes; On-site; GBP 80,000; Part time

Job summary

The Sussex Archaeological Society is seeking a dynamic Chief Operating Officer to oversee its operations and drive financial efficiency while enhancing visitor engagement across its heritage properties. The role involves leading a senior management team and implementing strategic plans to ensure effective management and conservation of historical assets.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading complex, multi-site operations.
• Expertise in financial management including budgeting and reporting.
• Experience in developing audience-focused engagement strategies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations ensuring financial efficiency and effectiveness.
• Lead senior management team to optimize performance across heritage properties.
• Implement the strategic plan while ensuring responsiveness to sector trends.

Skills

Leadership in multi-site operations

Financial management

Visitor-focused strategies

Heritage property management

Governance and risk management

Job description

The Sussex Archaeological Society

Chief Operating Officer & Deputy CEO

Salary range £80,000 per annum, pro rata

24 hours per week, permanent

Based in Lewes

The Board of Trustees seeks a dynamic and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee the Society’s daily operations, ensuring the delivery of financial efficiency and effectiveness, use of sustainable practices and attainment of the highest standards of visitor engagement and historic property management. Initially reporting to the Chair of the Board of Trustees (whilst the CEO position is vacant), the COO will lead a skilled senior management team focused on optimising business performance across all of the Society’s heritage properties and commercial ventures. The COO will play a vital role in implementing the Society’s strategic plan, ensuring the organisation remains agile, effective, and responsive to sector and wider trends. The postholder will also deputise for the CEO as and when required.

In addition to the above, you should have:

• Proven experience leading complex, multi-site operations within the heritage, tourism, or visitor attraction sector.
• Expertise in financial management, including budgeting, reporting, cost control, and driving commercial performance across diverse income streams.
• Skilled in developing visitor-focused strategies that enhance engagement, education and enjoyment, with an understanding of audience development and appreciation for archaeology, history, and collections.
• In-depth knowledge of heritage property management, including conservation, maintenance, and the protection of historic buildings and assets.
• Strong track record in governance, risk management, safeguarding, and health & safety compliance, with experience collaborating effectively with Trustees, senior leaders, and external stakeholders.

If you are interested in applying for this role, further information including an application form and job description are available on our recruitment portal.

You can also visit our website for more information.

Closing Date: Midnight on Monday 4^th August 2025.

The Sussex Archaeological Society is a registered charity and pursues a policy of equality and diversity. We encourage and welcome applications from all backgrounds and all parts of the community. All applications are judged on merit.