General Manager
Do you want to be part of an award-winning business and join an amazing team?
Nestled away in 250 acres of breath-taking countryside, Thornton Hall Country Park is an award-winning visitor attraction based on the border of Yorkshire and Lancashire. We are a farm park attraction and event venue hosting spectacular themed events, birthday parties, camping, weddings, corporate events, and live entertainment - not to mention award-winning Christmas and Halloween experiences.
Thornton Hall Country Park is an award winning leisure attraction featuring an indoor play area, entertainment area, dining location and an outdoor entertainment space, plus a working farm with numerous animals and stock.
As we expand we are looking for new team members to join us in our growth and there couldn't be a better time to join us
Job Title: General Manager
Location: Thornton Hall Country Park Ltd
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Managing Director
Hours: 40hrs, 5 days, including 1 weekend day/night.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and highly motivated General Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations and strategic development of THCP Ltd. The General Manager will be responsible for ensuring all departments function efficiently and effectively, liaising with departmental managers, maintaining high standards of guest experience, and driving business growth and development.
This is a senior leadership role requiring excellent organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate will be hands-on, commercially minded, and passionate about delivering exceptional service and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee the daily operations of all areas of the park, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for guests and staff alike.
* Provide strategic leadership to department heads across operations, maintenance, guest services, food and beverage, retail, HR, finance, and marketing.
* Act as the central point of contact between departments to ensure coordinated and efficient operations.
* Monitor and maintain high standards of safety, cleanliness, service quality, and regulatory compliance throughout the park.
* Lead and support the management team in setting goals, managing budgets, optimizing staff performance, and improving processes.
* Drive business development initiatives including events, partnerships, new attractions, and revenue-generating opportunities.
* Analyse performance data, customer feedback, and industry trends to make informed decisions and improve the overall park offering.
* Foster a positive work culture that promotes teamwork, accountability, and high morale among staff.
* Prepare and present operational and financial reports to senior leadership or ownership.
* Act as a brand ambassador for the park, representing it professionally with external partners, stakeholders, and the public.
Requirements:
* Proven experience in a senior leadership or general management role, preferably within the hospitality, leisure, tourism, or theme park industry.
* Strong understanding of operational management, customer service excellence, and team leadership.
* Experience managing budgets, financial reporting, and business planning.
* Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
* Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire diverse teams.
* Problem-solving mindset with a proactive and hands-on approach.
* Knowledge of health and safety regulations and operational compliance standards.
* Flexible and adaptable with the ability to work weekends, holidays, and peak periods as required.
Desirable Qualifications:
* Degree or diploma in Business Management, Hospitality, Tourism, or a related field.
* Familiarity with industry-specific software and systems.
* Previous experience in business development or growth strategy implementation.
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary package
* Performance-based bonuses
* Opportunity to lead a well-established and much-loved park
* A dynamic and supportive working environment
* Career growth opportunities
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Application question(s):
* If you were appointed General Manager at Thornton Hall Country Park, what would be your priorities in the first 6–12 months, and how would you balance maintaining daily operations with driving future growth?
* Can you tell me about a time when you successfully led a large team through a period of change or growth? How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
Licence/Certification:
* Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person