Job Title: Deputy Manager
Location: New Forest Enterprise Centre, Chapel Lane, Totton, SO40 9LA
Reports to: Centre Manager, Directors
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Overview
The New Forest Enterprise Centre is a vibrant and unique business hub offering office, industrial, virtual mailboxes and meeting space to a wide range of local enterprises. As Deputy Manager, you will play a key role in the day-to-day management and smooth running of the Centre. This is a hands-on, varied role that requires a confident, proactive, and amiable individual who enjoys working with people and takes pride in delivering excellent customer service.
This role is ideal for a motivated professional with strong organisational skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to juggle multiple priorities effectively. Working closely with the Centre Manager, you will ensure that our Licensees are well-supported, and the Centre remains a safe, welcoming, and professionally managed environment.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Support
* Support the Centre Manager in overseeing the daily operations of the Centre, deputising in their absence.
* Maintain the excellent appearance, cleanliness, and security of the building and surrounding site.
* Conduct regular building checks and identify any maintenance or compliance issues.
* Manage meeting room bookings with both Licensees and external customers.
Licensee Relations
* Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with Licensees and customers.
* Act as the first point of contact for Licensee queries, concerns, or issues, ensuring timely resolution.
* Manage unit viewings for prospective tenants, promote referrals, and support new Licensees during the onboarding process.
* Efficiently process required paperwork in a professional and efficient manner.
* Assist with managing virtual mailbox customers and the relevant compliance requirements.
Facilities & Maintenance
* Arrange and supervise routine repairs and maintenance, liaising with external contractors and ensuring quality of work.
* Organise and oversee contractors involved in projects and upgrades both digital and to the site.
* Ensure compliance with all relevant health & safety regulations, including monthly safety checks (emergency lighting, first aid supplies, etc.)
Financial & Administrative Duties
* Assist with the production of monthly management accounts and basic bookkeeping tasks.
* Maintain accurate accounting data, tenant information, maintenance schedules, complaints, and correspondence updating as appropriate.
* Assist with budget monitoring and the procurement of goods/services in line with Centre policy.
* Assist with invoicing licensees and customers for services supplied.
Marketing & Promotion
* Promote vacant units, meeting rooms and other services via appropriate marketing channels.
* Prepare promotional materials and support Centre-wide marketing initiatives.
* Encourage referrals from existing tenants and local networks.
Governance & Reporting
* Maintain detailed records and/or reports as required by the Centre Manager or Board.
* Facilitate and help organise quarterly board meetings.
* Escalate significant issues in a timely manner.
Person Specification
Essential Skills & Experience
* Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with a friendly, professional manner.
* Good written and verbal communication skills.
* Practical knowledge of digital systems and programs such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
* Solid organisational and time management abilities.
* Confidence in handling financial data, generating invoices and basic bookkeeping.
* A working knowledge of health & safety regulations and compliance procedures including fire safety.
* Previous experience in an office-based environment or similar.
Desirable Skills and Experience
* Previous experience in facilities management, commercial property, or business centre operations.
* Marketing or sales experience, particularly in promoting services or premises.
* Familiarity with small business needs and the ability to offer supportive guidance.
* Commitment to personal development and a willingness to continuously learn and develop new skills and knowledge.
* Ability to work effectively as part of the management team and collaborate with the Centre Manager to achieve business objectives.
* Knowledge of accounting and Sage.
Additional Information
* The role will require occasional flexibility in working hours to meet operational needs.
* This is a rewarding role for someone who enjoys variety, responsibility, and being part of a small close-knit team delivering a real benefit to the local business community.
* This role includes being a point of contact for out of hours emergencies should the centre manager be unavailable.
* 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas break.
* Inclusion into NEST pension scheme.
* Hours are Monday-Friday 8.30am to 4.45pm excluding bank holidays