Head Groundsperson

Arena Racing Company; Stockton-on-Tees; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading racing company as a Head Groundsperson, where you'll oversee a dedicated groundstaff team to ensure the track and site are presented to the highest standards. This role offers exciting perks like annual race day passes and health benefits in a vibrant working environment.

Benefits

2 Annual Members passes for 1500+ racedays

Hotel Discounts

Complimentary Golf

Annual leave starting at 22 days

Pension & Group life assurance

Healthshield with 24hr GP

Qualifications

• Previous experience in sports turf management.
• Team leadership experience required.
• Basic administrative skills for reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead groundstaff team and manage casual staffing.
• Prepare and maintain the racing surface and site.
• Manage budgets and resources efficiently.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

Completion of GMA L3

Job description

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We are looking for a passionate and knowledgeable Head Groundsperson this would be an ideal role for a Groundsperson looking to taking the next step in their career.

At ARC we embrace diversity, we develop our people, we care for our visitors, we think about our impact and we are proud of our sport.

Who is Sedgefield Racecourse?

One of the country's friendliest racecourses, with a reputation for a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Set in the beautiful Durham countryside, Sedgefield Racecourse hosts 20 fixtures over the year and is also available for venue hire.

About the role:

This role involves leading a small, dedicated team of full time groundstaff, as well as managing casual staffing around racedays. Reporting to the Clerk of the Course, you will be responsible for the presentation of the track and racing surface, as well as maintenance of all other external areas of the racecourse site.

Key responsibilities for the Head Groundsperson role include:

• Preparation and presentation of the Track and Racing surface, in liaison with the Clerk of the Course and in compliance with the British Horseracing Authority General Instructions (BHAGIs).
• Pro-active delivery of the highest standards of turf husbandry, working with consultant agronomists and external contractors where necessary.
• Maintenance and presentation of the wider site inclusive of lawns, parade rings, stables and external areas of the customer facing enclosures.
• Maintenance of the external site inclusive of car parks, roadways, trees, hedging and fencing.
• Management and maintenance of the associated equipment and machinery.
• In conjunction with the Clerk of the Course, prepare and manage annual budgets ensuring efficient allocation of resources throughout the year.
• Leadership of the ground staff team inclusive of training and development.
• Management and briefing of raceday casual staff.
• Compliance with Group Health and Safety policy.

For a more detailed list of duties please see the attached Job Description.

The person we are looking for as a Head Groundsperson has….

• Previous experience working within a sports turf management team.
• Team leadership experience.
• Completion of the GMA L3 is desirable
• Basic administrative skills facilitating good record keeping and reporting.
• Excellent communication skills enabling interaction with the internal team as well as a wide range of stakeholders.
• Is an open minded and forward thinking team player, with a pro-active approach to problem solving and a desire to constantly review and improve work practices.
• Thrives under pressure and enjoys working to deadlines.

Work Perks of being a Head Groundsperson with us at ARC…

• 2 Annual Members passes, giving access to over 1500 racedays
• Hotel Discounts and Complimentary Golf
• Annual leave starting at 22 days increasing up to 28 in line with length of service
• Pension & Group life assurance schemes
• Healthshield – including 24hr GP & EAP

…and so much more!

We are on a thrilling journey. So, to join us at our next destination, be part of a winning team and to learn more about our company and this exciting opportunity apply today!

At ARC, we’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic.

If you have a disability or need adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know — we’re happy to accommodate.

We believe diversity strengthens our business, and we’re actively working to create a safe, respectful environment where everyone’s voice is heard.