Vice President, Theme Park Development & Delivery (UK Project)

Universal Creative; Bedford; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Universal Creative, located in Bedford, England, is seeking a Vice President, Development & Delivery. This role focuses on overseeing the completion of projects within the portfolio, ensuring on-time and on-budget deliveries. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction and 12+ years of experience in managing large-scale projects. This position requires excellent leadership and communication skills, as well as a passion for the themed entertainment industry. Global travel is expected.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience managing large-scale projects, preferably in resort development.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Knowledge of themed entertainment industry.

Responsibilities

• Deliver projects within the global project portfolio on time and budget.
• Oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Ensure compliance with laws and uphold quality standards.

Skills

Project management

Risk assessment and mitigation

Effective communication

Leadership and mentorship

Budget management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction

Master's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction (preferred)

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification (preferred)

Job description

Job Summary The Vice President, Development & Delivery is responsible for delivering projects within one assigned Universal Creative global project portfolio, ensuring alignment with the Company’s creative vision and strategic goals to be on time, on budget, and on brand. This position oversees all aspects necessary for the development of attractions, entertainment facilities, hotels, restaurant/retail, themed experiences, and venues; including planning, budgeting, scheduling, estimating, design, construction, fabrication, delivery, and commissioning required to successfully deliver projects. This role involves close collaboration with divisional partners, cross‑divisional and company key stakeholders; interfaces with Intellectual Property partners; and manages vendor engagements and relationships. The VP, Development & Delivery will also work with the SVP, Development & Delivery to drive innovation in delivery methods.

Major Responsibilities

• Oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and consistent with the creative, aesthetic, and guest experience intent.
• Mentor and develop portfolio and project leaders and team members, fostering a culture of innovation, empowerment, authenticity, and collaboration.
• Develop and implement strategies for the successful execution of projects within assigned portfolio, ensuring alignment with the Company’s overall goals and vision.
• Oversee the management, tracking, and reporting of all necessary project components inclusive of budget and schedule. Ensure the maintenance of accurate documentation necessary for a successful project completion. Transparently report project status and progress to Universal Creative and Universal Destinations & Experiences leadership.
• Oversee the prequalification, procurement, selection, contracting and performance of all Consultants, Contractors, Vendors, Manufacturers, and Fabricators. Ensure all project procedures are followed as it relates to correspondence, RFI’s, directives, shop drawings, submittals, meeting minutes, punch lists, deficiency lists, notices, and pay applications.
• Manage relationships within Universal Creative, across Universal Destinations & Experiences, and with external partners during design, development, and delivery, ensuring contributions align with project goals and standards.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with projects within the portfolio, ensuring that potential issues are addressed proactively.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, contracts, and policies, and uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and ethics.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Information

• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic and creative environment
• Ability to effectively present information to senior executive leadership, public groups, and/or boards of directors
• Ability to make critical decisions in complex, high‑pressure situations to drive project success
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret construction drawings/specifications, technical drawings/specifications, financial reports, schedules, and legal documents
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to earn trust and credibility. Proven ability to work effectively with all levels of the organization and with a wide range of stakeholders, both individually and in groups.
• Knowledge of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to ensure project success
• Passionate and knowledgeable about the themed entertainment industry and committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences
• Proficiency in project and process management methodologies, software, skills and tools with a demonstrated track record of delivering results. Ability to handle multiple priorities, lead change and drive results.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.
• Global travel required.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction required. Master of Architecture, Engineering, or Construction strongly preferred; or equivalent, related experience.
• License in Architecture or Engineering preferred
• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification preferred

Experience

• 12+ years of experience successfully managing and delivering complex, large‑scale, and high‑profile projects, preferably in the areas of resort development, attractions, themed experiences, and destinations. Global experience preferred.

EOE