Commercial Area Manager - Flexible in East of England + Lincolnshire Reference : SEP20251629 Location : Flexible in Eastern England + Lincolnshire (Lincolnshire, Central Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk) Contract : Permanent Hours : Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week Salary : £39,205.00 - £41,856.00 Per Annum Benefits : Pension, Life Assurance and Annual Leave
Do you have the skills to fill this role Read the complete details below, and make your application today.
We are seeking candidates with a strong background in retail management to complement a team of Commercial Area Managers who bring expertise in Visitor Experience and Food and Beverage.
Introduction
Our nature reserves are living windows into the wildlife and habitats we fight to protect. They showcase the incredible conservation work we do and inspire people to take action in the face of the nature and climate emergency.
But we know we must evolve. Our reserves must become more relevant, more engaging, and more impactful. Thats why were looking for a Commercial Area Manager who shares our vision and has the skills, energy, and optimism to help us deliver it.
About the Role
This is a pivotal time to join the RSPBs Commercial team. You will lead the commercial performance of our retail, food & beverage, and visitor experience operations across a designated area of nature reserves. You will be an analytical thinker, a confident communicator, and a hands-on leader who can spot opportunities, drive growth, and deliver excellence.
What You will Be Doing
Operational Management
Maximise performance across visitor experience, retail, and food & beverage
Ensure compliance with RSPB commercial standards and policies
Identify and implement efficient processes to boost productivity and reduce costs
Financial Management
Deliver and monitor KPIs, identifying areas for improvement
Analyse sales data to shape offers and increase revenue
Manage stock and identify cost-saving opportunities
Sales & Revenue Growth
Develop and deliver sales plans to exceed income and NET targets
Collaborate on promotional activity to drive engagement
Conduct market analysis to identify growth opportunities
Compliance & Safety
Ensure all sites meet health & safety and risk management standards
Conduct audits and resolve operational issues swiftly
Visitor Experience
Champion exceptional customer service across all reserves
Work with teams to enhance the visitor journey
Lead training programmes to boost visitor satisfaction
Team Leadership & Development
Take an active role to recruit, train, and mentor teams across your area
Support performance reviews and professional development
Foster collaboration and a positive working culture
About You
Essential Qualifications & Experience
Degree/foundation level or equivalent experience in Commercial, Hospitality, Retail, or Tourism
Essential Knowledge & Skills
Budget management and multi-site commercial operations
Understanding of customer service excellence and its impact on income
Knowledge of H&S, food safety, HACCP, and relevant legislation
Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills
Ability to influence, motivate, and collaborate across teams
Proficient in Microsoft Office and digital tools
Desirable Extras
Proven success in area management within visitor attractions
Strong background in Retail operations, including stock management, merchandising, and customer service excellence
Experience in driving commercial performance through retail initiatives and innovation
Project Management qualification
Level 3 Food Hygiene or HACCP
Experience in heritage/science interpretation or charitable sector
Familiarity with EPOS, Power BI, OMS, or LSONE
Experience in managing multi-site retail teams and delivering training to improve sales performance
Understanding of retail analytics and consumer behaviour within a visitor attraction context
Additional Information
This is a Permanent, Full Time role for 37.5 hours per week.
You will need to live within or near your designated area Lincolnshire, Central Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
Regular travel and occasional overnight stays required
What You Can Expect
A passionate, high-performing team of talented individuals who are united by a shared mission: to leave the world better than we found it.
Outstanding learning and development opportunities, plus a comprehensive employee benefits package to support your wellbeing and growth.
Unique experiences that bring you closer to nature, from travelling to our stunning reserves to witnessing the wildlife youre helping protect.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We are building an inclusive and diverse RSPB where everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered to be their full selves. To create a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people on natures side.
People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented in the environmental and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we especially encourage you to apply. If you need any additional support to complete your application, please get in touch - we are here to help.
Closing date: 23:59, Wednesday, 22nd October 2025
We are looking to conduct interviews for this position as soon as possible.
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. We are actively recruiting and may close the vacancy early once sufficient applications have been received.
The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. You must have the right to work in the UK to be considered.
No agencies please.
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Remote working/work at home options are available for this role.