Runways End Centre Manager

Hampshire County Council; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent local authority in the UK is seeking a Centre Manager to lead the Runways End Outdoor Centre in Aldershot. In this critical role, you will spearhead outdoor education initiatives, manage operations, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards. The ideal candidate will possess relevant qualifications, substantial management experience, and a passion for sustainability and community engagement. An excellent benefits package is included.

Benefits

Competitive annual leave

Employee Support and Wellbeing

Flexible working options

Commitment to inclusion

Qualifications

• Experience in outdoor centres, including management.
• Commitment to sustainability and inclusion.
• Excellent IT and organisational abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of business plans.
• Design and evaluate outdoor learning programmes.
• Manage all aspects of health and safety and risk management.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Risk Management

Operational Management

Education

NGB awards in relevant outdoor activities

Higher-level coaching qualification

Job description

Job Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Centre Manager to lead Runways End Outdoor Centre in Aldershot. Are you looking for a challenging and diverse leadership role, working as part of a friendly and supportive team, with an opportunity to make a real difference to outdoor education, sustainability, and community engagement in Hampshire?

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of business plans to drive growth, innovation, and financial sustainability.
• Design, deliver, and evaluate a diverse range of outdoor learning and recreational programmes, including digital and blended learning.
• Continuously improve the quality of the centre's operations through robust planning, implementation, and regular review.
• Maintain and develop income streams through effective marketing, promotion, and customer engagement.
• Act as Operational Budget Holder, planning, monitoring, and reporting on budgets.
• Recruit, develop, and lead a high‑performing staff team, championing inclusion, accessibility, and wellbeing.
• Lead on health and safety, safeguarding, and risk management, ensuring robust processes and compliance.
• As the responsible manager oversee the management, maintenance, and development of centre buildings, equipment, and grounds.
• Represent the centre at local, regional, and national forums to maximise positive impact.

Benefits

• Competitive annual leave entitlement.
• Employee Support and Wellbeing.
• A range of flexible working options.
• We are a Disability Confident Employer – committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.

Qualifications

• NGB awards in at least three relevant outdoor activities and a higher‑level coaching qualification.
• Substantial experience in outdoor centres, including in management.
• Strong leadership, teaching, and operational management skills.
• Experience in risk management, quality assurance, compliance, and partnership working.
• Excellent communication, IT, and organisational abilities.
• Commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Why Join Us

We are recognised nationally as one of the highest performing local authorities in the UK with a focus on providing quality services and support to the people of Hampshire. We are immensely proud that our teams are so committed to delivering the high standards that our strong reputation is built on. Hampshire is an inspiring place to live and work. In addition to your salary, we offer an excellent benefits package.