About Didcot Railway Centre
Didcot Railway Centre is a unique heritage railway and living museum, welcoming thousands of visitors each year to explore Britain's railway history. With a working railway, historic locomotives, museum, café, shop and so much more, we offer an engaging and memorable experience for families and enthusiasts alike.
We are now seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Front of House Manager to lead our visitor-facing operations and ensure an outstanding experience across all public areas of the site.
The Role
The Front of House Manager plays a key role in delivering an exceptional visitor experience across the whole site.
You will oversee daily operations, lead a team of staff and volunteers, maintain high standards of service, and support the Centre's commercial and visitor engagement goals.
This is a hands-on, customer-facing leadership role in a heritage environment.
Key Responsibilities
Visitor Ticket Office
* Lead the day-to-day operation of the ticket office.
* Ensure every visitor receives a warm, welcoming and informative experience.
* Manage visitor flow, accessibility, signage and presentation of public spaces.
* Handle visitor enquiries, feedback and complaints professionally.
* Support group bookings, school visits and special event ticketing.
* Act as a key holder and oversee opening and closing procedures.
Retail & Shop Management
* Oversee merchandising and stock management.
* Track sales performance and implement strategies to increase visitor spend.
* Process mail orders.
Team Leadership
* Recruit, train, schedule and supervise front-of-house staff and volunteers.
* Foster a positive, collaborative working environment.
* Ensure consistent delivery of excellent customer service.
* Support team development and maintain high morale during busy periods.
Financial & Administrative Responsibilities
* Oversee cash handling, reconciliation and EPOS systems.
* Maintain accurate stock and compliance records.
* Support commercial planning and visitor experience development.
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Experience managing a visitor attraction or similar operational environment.
* Strong leadership and people-management skills.
* Excellent customer service skills and a welcoming manner.
* Ability to multitask and remain calm in a busy environment.
* Willingness to undertake first aid training.
* Experience with stock control, cash handling and EPOS systems.
Desirable
* Experience in a museum, heritage railway or cultural venue.
* Experience working with volunteers.
* Interest in railway heritage or historic preservation.
Personal Qualities
* Friendly, professional and visitor-focused.
* Organised and proactive with strong attention to detail.
* Commercially aware with a positive, solutions-focused mindset.
* Confident communicator who enjoys leading a team.
* Passionate about delivering memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
What We Offer
* Salary: £29,000 - £32,000 per annum (depending on experience)
* Full-time, permanent role
* Wednesday–Sunday working pattern (9am–5pm)
* Staff discount
* The opportunity to work in a unique and historic setting
To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.
Application deadline: 27/02/2026
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £29,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Canteen
* Company pension
* Employee discount
Work Location: In person