General Manager

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

WWT Martin Mere is seeking an outstanding leader to manage and drive the performance of our visitor attraction and wetland reserve near Ormskirk, Lancashire.

You will lead day-to-day operations with a team of 35 staff and 180 volunteers, deliver financial, visitor engagement and conservation objectives, and help implement the Wetlands are the way 2030 strategy. This full-time role requires strategic input and the ability to inspire across on-site teams.

Qualifications

• Experience in operational management at a visitor attraction.
• Strong financial and business numeracy; able to own P&L.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of the visitor attraction and reserve.
• Manage a team of 35 staff and 180 volunteers to deliver financial, visitor engagement and conservation objectives.
• Develop and drive performance, including trading areas, learning programmes, events and engagement.

Job description

WWT Martin Mere

West Closing date for applications is: 6th Sep 2026

Contact: Recruitment ([e-mail]) Sector: Management Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £61,400 per annum

About The Role

We are seeking an outstanding leader to manage and drive the performance of our incredible visitor attraction and wetland nature reserve near Ormskirk, in Lancashire.

This is a genuine opportunity to shape the site, not just run it. Reporting into WWT's central operations leadership, you will take full responsibility for the day to day operations leading a dedicated team of more than 35 staff and 180 volunteers to deliver our financial, visitor engagement and conservation objectives for the centre, contributing to the delivery of WWT's Wetlands are the way 2030 strategy.

WWT Martin Mere offers a unique introduction to wetland wildlife and an amazing day out where visitors can experience the spectacle of tens of thousands of ducks, geese and swans during the winter months, and in summer immerse themselves in wetlands teaming with life. Family visitors can enjoy wetland adventure play areas and Europe's longest stretch of stepping stones.

We are looking for an inspiring leader to deliver ambitious financial, conservation and visitor engagement strategies. You will be required to develop a diverse team of staff and volunteers, attract a growing number of visitors and members, and provide them with an unforgettable experience on each and every visit.

The role includes management of the trading areas, incorporating retail and catering; oversight of the living collection, which includes birds and otters, and the nature reserve which as a Ramsar Wetland Site is of international importance; a thriving learning programme, and a growing events and engagement programme. The role requires close working with Headquarters to help implement WWT's Wetlands are the way - 2030 strategy.

This is a full time position working 37.5 hours per week, 5 days from 7, including weekend and bank holiday working.

About You

To be a success in this role you must be an experienced and professional manager and a great leader, comfortable with both operational delivery, visible on the floor leadership and the ability to input strategically at the highest level. You should be strong on financial and business numeracy, comfortable owning the P&L and able to deliver against ambitious and motivating targets while maintaining day-to-day performance.

You will have impeccable standards for cleanliness, health