Head of Parks & Open Spaces Operations

Horticulture Jobs; Ilford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure Ltd is seeking a Head of Operations to lead the strategic and operational delivery of Parks & Open Spaces across the London Borough of Redbridge. The role focuses on greenspace management, budget control and high standards of service delivery for parks, allotments and related facilities.

You will develop strategies, oversee staff and budgets, and drive continuous improvement, collaboration and partnerships with Council and community groups.

Qualifications

• Proven track record delivering high-quality green-space services.
• Experience managing budgets and staff.
• Excellent stakeholder and senior-management influence.
• Strong strategic planning and decision-making.
• Commitment to health and safety compliance.
• Experience in change and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of parks, open spaces, grounds maintenance, allotments, nature conservation, country parks and fleet maintenance.
• Lead, manage and develop operational teams, promoting a positive, accountable and high-performing working environment.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, service plans and improvement initiatives aligned with Vision’s objectives.
• Oversee service budgets, financial planning and resource allocation, ensuring efficiency, value for money and financial sustainability.
• Ensure services meet agreed standards, contractual obligations and KPIs, addressing operational performance issues as required.
• Oversee the effective management of contractors, suppliers, assets and maintenance programmes.
• Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety legislation, statutory requirements and organisational policies.
• Identify opportunities for service development, income generation, efficiencies and commercial growth.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with Redbridge Council, elected members, community organisations and other key stakeholders.
• Support environmental sustainability, biodiversity, conservation and the long-term development of parks and green spaces.
• Lead operational responses to significant incidents, service disruptions and emergencies, ensuring appropriate business continuity arrangements are in place.

Skills

Horticultural knowledge

People leadership

Stakeholder management

Strategic planning

Commercial awareness

Health & safety

Budget management

Change management

Communication

Partnership working

Job description

Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure Ltd is seeking a Head of Operations to lead the strategic and operational delivery of Parks & Open Spaces across the London Borough of Redbridge. The role focuses on greenspace management, budget control and high standards of service delivery for parks, allotments and related facilities.

You will develop strategies, oversee staff and budgets, and drive continuous improvement, collaboration and partnerships with Council and community groups.