Operations Manager

Job Description

As Operations Manager, you will be responsible for the smooth running of Sandon Hall's weddings and events business whilst overseeing the operational upkeep of the house, gardens and holiday lets. This role requires a strategic thinker with a keen eye for detail, excellent leadership skills and a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.

You will play a key role in embedding sustainable business practices, ensuring a transparent roadmap to achieving carbon net zero. This includes working with suppliers, contractors and internal teams to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and implement environmentally responsible solutions that align with the venue’s long-term sustainability goals.

Responsibilities

Wedding & Events Management

1. Oversee the end-to-end delivery of weddings, events and accommodation stays, ensuring an exceptional guest experience.
2. Work closely with couples, planners and suppliers to bring wedding visions to life, ensuring flawless execution.
3. Coordinate event logistics, from set-up to breakdown, ensuring the highest standards of presentation and service.
4. Lead and manage on-the-day operations, problem solving proactively to guarantee smooth running.
5. Ensure all health and safety and compliance measures are met for events, stays and venue operations.

House and Venue Operations

1. Maintain the operational upkeep of Sandon Hall, ensuring the house, gardens and accommodation lets are presentable and well-maintained at all times.
2. Oversee general maintenance, repairs and restoration in line with Grade II* listing regulations, working with the house Caretaker and Housekeeper, contractors and conservation specialists as required.
3. Manage suppliers and service providers for housekeeping, contract cleaning, security, catering and general maintenance.
4. Ensure compliance with fire safety, health & safety regulations and security protocols.

Business Growth & Development

1. Identify opportunities to enhance venue operations, guest experience and revenue.
2. Work with the Sales and Marketing team to maximise bookings and ensure operational readiness for venue showrounds, open house events and promotional activities.
3. Develop and implement operational efficiencies to streamline event execution and house management without compromising on standards.
4. Maintain and build relationships with wedding industry partners, suppliers and stakeholders to strengthen the venue’s reputation.

People Management & Leadership

1. Lead, train and inspire a small team, ensuring high standard of service and professionalism.
2. Manage staffing levels, rotas and operational team schedules for events and maintenance.
3. Foster a culture of excellence, teamwork and accountability across all areas of the business.

Qualifications

1. Proven experience in operations, events, ideally within an historic venue, luxury hospitality or events setting.
2. Exceptional organisational and multitasking skills, with the ability to handle complex logistics and multiple events.
3. A keen eye for detail and a passion for delivering first-class guest experiences.
4. Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience in staff coordination and supplier management.
5. Knowledge of building maintenance, compliance and historic property management (desirable not essential).
6. Confident communicator, with the ability to think on your feet and handle challenges calmly and efficiently.
7. Problem-solving mindset.