Purpose of the Role
The Property and Operations Manager is responsible for the effective management, maintenance, and smooth day-to-day operation of the historic Delapré Abbey estate and its associated buildings, grounds, and infrastructure. This role ensures the property remains safe, welcoming, and compliant, while supporting the Trust's objectives as a vibrant heritage, hospitality, and community destination.
Key Responsibilities
Property & Facilities Management
* Oversee the maintenance, repair, and conservation of all buildings, heritage assets, grounds, and infrastructure across the Abbey estate.
* Develop and deliver a planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedule to safeguard the Grade II* listed property and associated buildings.
* Manage and coordinate external contractors for routine and ad hoc works, ensuring high-quality service, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to health and safety standards.
* Procure and negotiate contracts for maintenance, utilities, and service providers.
* Implement sustainable practices to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and meet environmental targets.
Compliance & Health and Safety
* Schedule and oversee all statutory compliance checks—including fire safety, electrical testing, water hygiene, asbestos management, and accessibility—in line with legal requirements and heritage best practice.
* Liaise with West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and relevant regulatory bodies to ensure timely completion and documentation of all required inspections and certifications.
* Maintain accurate records of compliance, risk assessments, and incident reports, providing regular updates to the senior management team and Trustees.
* Act as the lead for health and safety across the site, including training staff and volunteers, updating policies, and conducting regular audits.
Operations & Site Management
* Lead the day-to-day operational management of the estate, ensuring it remains safe, clean, and welcoming for visitors, staff, volunteers, and tenants.
* Oversee site security, access control, and emergency preparedness, including out-of-hours response to incidents.
* Work closely with event, catering, and visitor services teams to support smooth delivery of public programmes, weddings, and commercial hires.
* Monitor budgets and expenditure for property and operations, preparing forecasts and reports as required.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
* Line-manage maintenance staff, cleaning team, gardening team or contracted operatives, fostering a positive and proactive working culture.
* Support volunteer engagement in estate and maintenance projects where appropriate.
* Collaborate with the Deputy Chief Exec and senior team to contribute to planning, capital projects, and future developments.
Person Specification
Essential
* Proven experience in property/facilities management, preferably within a heritage, hospitality, or public venue environment.
* Strong understanding of statutory compliance, health and safety legislation, and contractor management.
* Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
* Strong communication and negotiation skills to work effectively with contractors, local authorities, colleagues, and stakeholders.
* Budget management experience and ability to work within financial constraints.
Desirable
* Knowledge of conservation principles and heritage building maintenance.
* IOSH or NEBOSH qualification (or willingness to obtain).
* Experience implementing sustainability initiatives in a historic environment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £33,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Application question(s):
* How many years experience do you have within a property management role and what experience do you have working with external contractors.
Work Location: In person