Operations & Project Manager

ZipRecruiter; London; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cultural organization in London seeks an Operations & Project Manager to oversee planning and project delivery. This role is pivotal in ensuring operational efficiency and financial sustainability while enhancing community engagement. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project management and operations, with a passion for cultural heritage.

Benefits

Work at a historic organization

Join a passionate team

Opportunity to shape the future of a charity

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations and project management.
• Experience managing commercial operations, ideally in venue hire or events.
• Ability to lead teams and manage budgets.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, project delivery, and commercial operations.
• Develop Gantt charts and project timelines.
• Lead teams managing commercial areas including venue hire.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Stakeholder Engagement

Problem Solving

Project Management

Education

Project Management Qualification (e.g., PRINCE2)

Tools

Gantt Charts

Project Planning Tools

Job description

Job Description

About us

For over 130 years, our historic home at 14 Bride Lane has been more than just a building – it has been a beacon for creativity, learning, and community engagement, standing as a testament to London's rich printing heritage. The Foundation cares for an internationally significant collection celebrating the history of print, graphic design, and typography.

Our Grade II listed Victorian building also features the 130-seat Bridewell Theatre, a hands-on print workshop, and event spaces for hire. We offer a dynamic programme of workshops, events, and exhibitions, currently attracting around 42,000 visitors annually.

We are in an exciting period of organisational development, working on robust plans and policies and creating a new strategic direction to develop our collections, cultural offer, and to reach a wider, diverse audience.

The role will be closely involved in projects that, under our new vision and mission, aim to transform SBF into a contemporary institute serving the creative industries, researchers, and the wider public. The role will suit someone passionate about taking on challenges to create a cultural hub fit for the 21st century.

Job Purpose

The Operations & Project Manager will oversee planning, project delivery, and commercial operations, ensuring that St Bride Foundation continues to fulfill its mission while increasing its financial sustainability. This role is key in managing strategic initiatives, optimizing processes, and leading teams to ensure efficient operations across venue hire, theatre management, and other income-generating activities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Planning & Project Management
2. Develop and maintain Gantt charts, project timelines, and KPIs for organisational initiatives.
3. Work as part of the Senior Management team to oversee and deliver key projects on time, within scope, and budget.
4. Improve internal project management processes to enhance efficiency and collaboration.
5. Implement long-term strategic plans aligned with the charity’s mission.
6. Attend meetings and contribute expertise to project groups as applicable.

1. Operations & Commercial Oversight
2. Lead teams managing commercial areas, including venue hire, theatre, events, and other income initiatives.
3. Ensure effective resource management, including staff, budgets, and operational tools.
4. Identify opportunities to increase revenue streams while maintaining charitable objectives.
5. Develop and implement policies to improve operational efficiency, sustainability, and financial resilience.

1. Team Leadership & Stakeholder Management
2. Provide leadership and support to commercial and operational staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.
3. Work closely with external partners and stakeholders to enhance impact and income opportunities.
4. Ensure strong internal communication to align teams with project goals and operational priorities.

1. Risk, Compliance & Facilities Management
2. Ensure compliance with health & safety, GDPR, and other regulatory requirements.
3. Oversee stewardship of the historic Grade II listed building, ensuring operational resilience and sustainability.
4. Identify and mitigate operational risks, implementing solutions to improve efficiency and safety.
5. Support sustainability initiatives, including energy efficiency and safety legislation adherence.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience in operations and project management (including a project management qualification such as PRINCE2).
• Strong understanding of Gantt charts, project planning tools, and process improvement methodologies.
• Experience managing commercial operations, ideally in venue hire, theatre, events, or income-generating activities.
• Proven experience in project management, particularly relating to building or refurbishment projects.
• Ability to lead teams, manage budgets, and drive efficiency improvements.
• Desirable: Experience in charity, cultural, or creative industries.
• Desirable: Knowledge of charity governance, compliance, and health & safety best practices.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Leadership and team management skills, with experience motivating staff.
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, balancing multiple projects and deadlines.
• Passion for cultural heritage, education, and community engagement.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a proactive and adaptable approach.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Highly organized, assertive, and persuasive, with a diplomatic approach.
• Experience in contractor procurement, both competitive and negotiated.
• Self-motivated with strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong verbal, written, and listening communication skills.

Organisational Values & Expectations

• Uphold the Foundation’s commitment to cultural preservation, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
• Foster a collaborative working environment with colleagues, volunteers, and external partners.
• Adhere to ethical standards and best practices in charity governance and operations.

Health & Safety Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all relevant health & safety policies and sector guidelines.
• Promote a safe and inclusive environment for staff, volunteers, and visitors.

Terms & Conditions

• Working hours: 4 days a week (28 hours, excluding 1-hour lunch daily), 0.8 FTE.
• Salary: Band 2 (£46,000–£55,000 pa), pro-rata £36,800–£44,000 pa.
• Location: London.
• Contract: Permanent.

Why Join Us?

• Work at a historic, culturally significant organisation.
• Help shape the future of a unique creative and community-focused charity.
• Enjoy a role combining strategic leadership and hands-on project delivery.
• Join a passionate team dedicated to creativity, learning, and heritage.