Operations Manager

HIJOBS; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A sports club in the United Kingdom is seeking an Operations Manager to lead and manage commercial operations. Responsibilities include overseeing hospitality and events, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance. The ideal candidate has over 4 years of experience in hospitality or sports management, and strong leadership skills. This role offers a salary between £35,000 and £40,000, plus a potential bonus.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of experience managing events in hospitality or sports.
• Experience managing a facility independently.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets including forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage all club events, conferences, and hospitality.
• Oversee matchday hospitality and sponsor engagement.
• Manage budgets, monitor costs, and optimize profitability.

Skills

Strong leadership skills

Excellent communication skills

Negotiation abilities

Event planning

Proficiency in hospitality software

Ability to work under pressure

Tools

CRM software

POS systems

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Job Title

Operations Manager

Location

Canal Park, Highland Rugby Football Club

Salary

£35,000 – £40,000 (experience dependant) + potential profit-related bonus from 6 months/post probation

Hours

40 hours/week (including evenings, weekends, and matchdays)

Job Purpose

To lead, grow and manage Highland RFC’s commercial operations, focusing on matchday and non‑matchday events, hospitality, and venue hire. This hands‑on role involves team leadership, customer engagement, and strategic development to maximise revenue and enhance the club’s reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage all club events, conferences, and hospitality days and services.
• Oversee and organise matchday hospitality and sponsor engagement.
• Recruit, train, and manage flexible hours staff and volunteers.
• Independently manage the club’s large, commercial facility.
• Ensure all facility operational records, H&S logs, and staff training documentation are compliant, accurate and up to date.
• Liaise with suppliers for all facility management contacts (e.g., hygiene and waste management).
• Manage budgets, monitor costs, and optimise profitability across all operations.
• Negotiate supplier contracts and develop pricing strategies.
• Develop and support marketing and promotional campaigns to maximise demand.
• Promote club and events communications via social media and member app.
• Regular reporting to the Board of trustees on financial and operational matters.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Minimum 4 years’ experience managing events in hospitality, sports, or similar sectors.
• Proven track record in team leadership and customer service.
• Experience managing a facility independently, including compliance and staff training records.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, including forecasting and financial reporting.

Desirable Experience

• To have, or be willing to work towards, the Scottish Personal Licence.
• Familiarity with rugby culture and matchday operations.
• SCSSSA/REHIS Food Hygiene Certificate or equivalent.
• First Aid at Work certification.
• PVG check.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and organisational skills, including forecasting and events planning.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Proficient in hospitality software (CRM, POS) and Microsoft Outlook.
• Passion for sport and community engagement.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt quickly.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to [e-mail] by Sunday 23rd November 2025. If you wish to discuss informally first please do get in touch.