Head of Projects

Support Team; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading entertainment company is seeking a Head of Projects to oversee capital and refurbishment projects across its bowling centres in the UK and Europe. The candidate will lead project planning, ensure compliance with regulations, and manage multiple stakeholders. Key qualifications include proven project delivery experience in leisure sectors and strong commercial acumen. This role offers a highly competitive salary aligned with the strategic importance of the position, along with additional benefits like private health insurance and a company pension.

Benefits

Company car (Option)

Performance related bonus

Private health insurance

Cycle2Work scheme

Company pension contribution

Friends and family discounts

Qualifications

• Proven experience delivering multi‑site capital projects in leisure or hospitality.
• Strong understanding of bowling‑centre environments.
• Ability to manage complex projects to tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and design of capital projects.
• Manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ensure compliance with UK building regulations.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Project delivery in the leisure sector

Commercial acumen

Communication skills

Health and safety knowledge

Education

Project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, PMP)

Job description

Role | Head of projects

Location | UK & Europe ( Office

based a day a week (London) then field based)

Salary | TBD - Highly competitive package, aligned with the strategic importance and influence of the role.

Contract | Permanent

All candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English and have the right to work in the UK.

About us

Lane7 is the fastest growing and market leading boutique bowling business in the UK, with multiple venues across three brands : Lane7, Level X and Gutterball. Bowling is our thing - it has been for 10 years. Think of us as your one stop shop for a great activity packed experience that also offers arcades, beer pong, pool, golf, darts, shooting pods, karaoke and much more! We aim to give you the best night out every time, with all your best nights rolled into one. We have the perfect entertainment for everyone and every occasion.

We're looking for a diligent, passionate and hard‑working Head of Commercial Contracts to join us! We have ambitious and exciting plans for the future.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience delivering multi‑site capital projects within leisure, hospitality, retail, or entertainment sectors.
• Strong understanding of bowling‑centre environments, including lane machinery, amusements, and building services.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen, including CAPEX management.
• Experience managing contractors and multidisciplinary teams.
• Sound knowledge of UK building regulations and health & safety requirements.
• Ability to manage complex projects to tight deadlines in a live‑operating environment.

Desirable

• Experience with major refurbishment programmes in bowling, cinemas, arcades, trampoline parks, family entertainment centres, or similar venues.
• Formal project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, PMP).
• Technical knowledge of QubicaAMF / Brunswick systems or similar bowling equipment.

Personal Attributes

• Strong leader with the ability to influence and guide teams across multiple functions.
• Organised, proactive, and able to prioritise effectively.
• Hands‑on, practical approach with a strong problem‑solving mindset.
• Customer‑focused with a passion for improving guest experience.
• Comfortable travelling nationally and working flexibly when needed.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Delivery

• Lead the planning, design, and execution of all capital and refurbishment projects across the bowling estate.
• Oversee lane installation and upgrades, arcade / attraction fit‑outs, bar and kitchen refurbishments, and building maintenance works.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously across a multi‑site, fast‑paced environment.
• Ensure minimal disruption to trading through careful planning, communication, and coordination.

Financial & Commercial Management

• Own the capital expenditure (CAPEX) programme, including budget planning, cost tracking, and reporting.
• Manage the PM and QS team tendering, procurement, and contractor negotiations to drive value for money.
• Review and approve project cost estimates, variations, and final accounts.

Stakeholder & Contractor Management

• Work closely with centre managers, operations, property, and senior leadership to align project objectives with business needs.
• Manage external suppliers, contractors, designers, and consultants, ensuring high‑quality delivery and adherence to SLAs.
• Provide clear communication of project timelines, risks, and progress updates to stakeholders at all levels.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all works comply with UK and European building regulations, CDM requirements, fire safety laws, food safety standards, and leisure‑sector guidance.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure safe working practices on all sites.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, permits, and compliance records.

Quality, Standards & Innovation

• Uphold brand standards across all bowling centres through consistent design, materials, and equipment specifications.
• Drive continuous improvement in site design, customer experience, and operational efficiency.
• Identify and implement new technologies, attractions, and solutions to enhance centre performance and guest satisfaction.

Team Leadership

• Lead and develop a project team including external project management and QS team, designers and architects and all 3rd parties.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and professional development to team members.

What we’re offering

• TBD - Highly competitive package, aligned with the strategic importance and influence of the role.
• Company car (Option)
• Performance related bonus
• Private health insurance & benefits through Vitality.
• Cycle2Work scheme in conjunction with Halfords.
• Access to our team wellbeing app - to help promote mental health awareness and wellbeing within our teams.
• Friends and family discounts across the Lane7 Group.
• Company pension contribution.
• Company wide events.

To apply

Does this sound what you’re looking for? Get in touch asap to find out more and join us!