General Manager

Hengistbury Head Outdoors; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A coastal community hub is looking for a General Manager to oversee operations and lead a team dedicated to well-being and community engagement. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operational leadership and a passion for community empowerment. This full-time position offers a salary of circa £40,000, plus bonuses and benefits, based in Hengistbury Head, Christchurch Harbour.

Benefits

Bonus and membership benefits

Potential for RYA training

23 days holiday plus 2 well-being days

Qualifications

• Proven success in operational leadership within community-focused organizations.
• Track record of delivering inclusive programs that engage diverse community needs.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Directors and key teams to ensure smooth operations.
• Co-develop an inclusive program of activities and events.
• Achieve income targets through various forms of funding.

Skills

Operational leadership

Community engagement

Communication

Budgeting

Team leadership

Education

Relevant qualifications in watersports or outdoor leadership

Job description

Are you passionate about the outdoors, community, and well-being? Do you want to create a positive impact? Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO) is looking for a values-driven, proactive, and visionary General Manager to lead daily operations and help shape the exciting, ambitious future of a much-loved coastal hub with deep local heritage.

This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting difference. You will be part of a passionate team that is transforming HHO from a primarily water-based centre into a vibrant, inclusive community hub where people can thrive in body and mind.

Starting in 2026, we will offer a diverse range of programmes including water sports, nature based learning, wellbeing activities, environmental education, leadership development, and inclusive community events.

Our future services aim to welcome everyone—from local families and young people to older adults and individuals with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and all physical abilities.

We are seeking a collaborative and adaptable leader who thrives in community settings, embraces sustainability, and is motivated by the chance to co-create a space where people of all backgrounds feel valued and inspired.

About the Role

As General Manager, you’ll work closely with the Board of Directors and Watersports Manager to lead our operational team and deliver an inclusive and impactful programme. Your role is central to delivering our community-focused vision ensuring safety, quality, and sustainability across all land-based areas of our work.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with HHO Directors and key teams (Finance, Operations, Development) to ensure smooth, strategic day-to-day operations.
• Co-develop with the Watersports Manager a rich and inclusive programme of water- and land-based activities, including outdoor recreation, wellbeing initiatives, and environmental education.
• Achieve income targets through course fees, events, grant applications, sponsorships, and community fundraising.
• Meet the community and social purpose objectives core to HHO as a Community Benefit Society
• Support marketing and outreach to position HHO as a welcoming centre of excellence rooted in community values.
• Maintain facilities and manage capital development projects, ensuring all spaces are safe, accessible, and environmentally responsible.
• Build positive relationships with community partners, volunteers, schools, local authorities, and contractors.
• Work collaboratively with BCP Council, Historic England, Natural England (SSSI), and the Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre.
• Inspire and support a multidisciplinary team of staff, instructors, and volunteers—building a culture of trust, respect, and continuous learning.
• Oversee financial management, improve operational efficiency, and track key performance indicators to support long-term sustainability.
• Champion safeguarding, health and safety, accessibility, and inclusion across all services.
• Promote staff and volunteer development through training, coaching, and professional learning opportunities.

About You

Essential

• Proven success in operational leadership within service-oriented or community-focused organisations (e.g. leisure, education, wellbeing, hospitality, or nonprofit sectors).
• Track record of delivering inclusive programmes that engage and reflect diverse community needs.
• Strong communication and team leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines and adapt in real-time.
• Competence in budgeting, revenue planning, supplier management, and performance reporting.
• A people-centred and solution-focused mindset, with a passion for community empowerment and inclusive access.
• Comfort working in evolving and start-up environments, with flexibility and a growth mindset.

Desirable

• Experience in outdoor education, health and wellbeing programmes, or nature-based community initiatives.
• Relevant qualifications in watersports, outdoor leadership, or fitness and wellbeing (e.g. RYA, CPD).
• Knowledge of compliance standards like AALA or RYA Training Centre recognition.
• Familiarity with social enterprises, volunteer-led initiatives, or Community Benefit Societies.

Why Join HHO?

You’ll work in one of the UK’s most stunning natural settings - Christchurch Harbour at Hengistbury Head. As the first General Manager of our newly established centre, you’ll have the opportunity to shape its growth and create a thriving space for connection, learning, and community wellbeing.

With the support of a forward-thinking Board of Directors who are passionate about the power of nature and inclusion, you’ll help build a lasting legacy that benefits people of all ages and backgrounds along the Dorset coast.

Salary

Circa £40,000 + bonus + membership benefits. Potential for RYA training and other development opportunities.

Holiday

23 days plus 2 well-being days

Work pattern

Full-time, 40 hours per week with flexibility in scheduling. This role will be based on-site at Hengistbury Head during the initial phase to support the successful launch of the centre.

Location

Hengistbury Head, Christchurch Harbour

Start date

Late Autumn 2025 (with the centre opening fully in early 2026)

How to apply

Apply to

[e-mail]

Application deadline

Monday October 27th 2025