Commercial and Operations Manager

West Sussex.info; England; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused charity in West Sussex is seeking a Commercial and Operations Manager to lead innovative initiatives and ensure operational excellence. This role involves managing diverse teams and overseeing site operations for inclusive visitor experiences. Candidates should have a strong background in commercial leadership and a passion for community impact. The position offers a competitive salary and a vibrant work environment.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

25 days annual leave

Life assurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Proven experience in commercial and operational leadership.
• Strong track record in delivering income growth.
• Demonstrated leadership and management of diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic commercial initiatives and identify new income opportunities.
• Oversee site operations, compliance, and health & safety.
• Inspire and lead a multidisciplinary team with a focus on inclusion.

Skills

Commercial leadership

Financial acumen

Strategic planning

Excellent communication

Stakeholder engagement

Flexibility for weekends

Education

Project Management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2, APM)

Job description

Overview

Helping people find jobs in the local area since 2008

Salary £45,000 to £50,000 per annum salary dependent on skills and experience

Location Fontwell

Contract Permanent

Hours Full Time - Flexible working require to include weekends and evenings

🌿 Commercial and Operations Manager – Aldingbourne Trust 🌿
Location: Aldingbourne Country Centre, West Sussex
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Hours: Full-time, flexible working required (including evenings/weekends)

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for inclusive visitor experiences and commercial growth? Join the Aldingbourne Trust as our Commercial and Operations Manager, where you’ll lead innovative income-generating initiatives and operational excellence across our vibrant Country Centre and wider Trust.

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a socially responsible organisation that empowers people with learning disabilities and autism. You’ll drive sustainable growth across hospitality, retail, events, and fundraising — while ensuring every visitor experience is engaging, inclusive, and memorable.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategic commercial initiatives and identify new income opportunities
• Oversee site operations, compliance, and health & safety
• Deliver creative, inclusive visitor experiences and events
• Manage retail and hospitality services to maximise profitability
• Develop stakeholder relationships and community engagement
• Inspire and lead a multidisciplinary team with a focus on inclusion and growth
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial performance

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in commercial and operational leadership
• Strong financial acumen and strategic planning skills
• Passion for inclusive services and community impact
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement
• Flexibility to support seven-day trading and events

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in leading commercial and operational functions within hospitality, visitor attractions, or related sectors.
• Strong track record of delivering income growth through strategic planning and execution.
• Sound financial acumen with experience in budget management, forecasting, and ROI analysis.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing diverse teams across multiple disciplines.
• Knowledge of health & safety, safeguarding, and compliance regulations.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High digital literacy and data-driven decision-making capability.

Desirable Experience & Qualifications

• Experience in the charity or social enterprise sector.
• Background in inclusive visitor experience design, commercial enterprise or community engagement.
• Understanding of multi-site operations and strategic facilities management.
• Project Management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2, APM).
• Experience in customer and visitor marketing engagement

Why Join Us

At the Aldingbourne Trust, you’ll join a forward-thinking charity that celebrates innovation, inclusion, and meaningful impact. Your leadership will directly help us create opportunities for people with learning disabilities and autism to thrive.

We offer a competitive benefits package including:

• Contributory pension scheme
• 25 days annual leave (plus service-based increments)
• Life assurance (2x annual salary)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Bicycle and eye care vouchers
• Discounted gym membership and staff discounts at Aldingbourne sites
• Peer support groups and wellbeing initiatives
• £200 refer-a-friend scheme and staff awards programme

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