Leisure Contract Lead - Temporary Job ref: ST 12883 Job type: Temporary Location: Council Offices, Church Street, Newtownards Salary: Scale PO5, SCP 39 - 42, £50,269 -£53,460 per annum Quantity of Posts Available: 1 Closing date: Thursday 20 Nov 2025 16:00 Job summary This temporary post has been created to provide internal resource required to facilitate the procurement of a future leisure services operator for Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex and Queens Leisure Complex, Holywood. The Leisure Contract Lead will be responsible for developing and managing the leisure elements of the Councils new outsourced leisure contract, ensuring a robust, fit-for-purpose, and future-proof arrangement is in place for implementation from 1 April 2028. The postholder will work closely with the Project Senior Responsible Officer (SRO), Project Manager, external consultants, and internal project team to develop all aspects of the new leisure contract. They will provide specialist input across service design, performance management, partnership development, and financial modelling, acting as the Councils lead advisor on leisure contract content and implementation. Please note This is a temporary contract for up to two years, may be extended Standard office hours are 9.00am - 5.00pm with 4.30pm finish on Friday; however, Flexi time between 8.00am and 6.00pm is in operation for this post. Base location will initially be Church Street offices, Newtownards; however, the post holder will be required to travel throughout the Borough. Hybrid working is available in this role after a period of training. A reserve list may be kept from this recruitment exercise. Applicants should refer to the candidate guidance before completing their application. All correspondence in relation to the job vacancy will be finalised by email and phone. Therefore, it is important that applicants ensure a valid email address and mobile number are provided and entered accurately when filling out the application form. Applicants should ensure they check their emails including junk folders regularly. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Ensure the new leisure contract is strategically aligned with the Councils Corporate Plan and Leisure Strategy. Develop the service delivery model, including customer care standards, memberships, pricing structures, core activities, opening hours, authority third party commitments and sports development programmes. Design and implement a comprehensive performance management framework, including processes, reporting mechanisms, and a suite of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) applicable across all Council leisure provision. Lead the development of the partnership and collaboration elements of the contract to maximise community and strategic outcomes. Work closely with the Project Team and Estates to ensure a fit-for-purpose maintenance model is incorporated into the contract. Collaborate with the Finance Service to develop a robust financial model, covering performance monitoring, utilities, loss of income claims, lifecycle investment planning and asset management. Contribute to the development of communications and stakeholder engagement elements related to the contract and project delivery. Ensure the contract reflects best practice, statutory regulations and legislation, compliance with procurement legislation, and long-term sustainability. Prepare routine and bespoke reports as required for the Project SRO, project team, senior management and Council. To comply with and promote equality, health and safety in accordance with Council Policies and legal requirements. To undertake any other appropriate duties as may be allocated from time to time in accordance with the general nature of the post. Qualifications Essential: Degree or equivalent in a leisure, business, or contract development/management-based discipline Experience Essential: 2 years experience conducting contract development of a leisure contract or contract management of a leisure contract 2 years experience providing operational leisure advice and guidance to senior management within a leisure environment 2 years experience successfully working as a key part of a project team to deliver a project or contract Desirable: Five years managerial experience in a leisure environment Key Skills & Abilities Essential: Ability to work strategically Ability to prioritise and manage conflicting work demands Ability to successfully work as part of a project team and develop and maintain effective partnerships/networks Competent in the use of Microsoft applications Negotiation/influencing skills Good communication skills Good project management and problem-solving skills Other Desirable: A valid driving licence with access to a form of transport that will allow fulfilment of the duties of the post, or access to a suitable form of transport enabling the post holder to meet the requirements of the post Benefits Employees have access to a wide range of benefits at Ards and North Down Borough Council. In addition to a competitive salary, the Council supports all staff in their career aspirations through learning and development opportunities. Current key benefits include 35 days of annual leave (including bank/public holidays), rising to 38 days after five years of service, and 41 days after 10 years of service. Northern Ireland Local Government Pension Scheme (Council contributes 19% of salary). Health benefits: Westfield Healthcare Scheme; Leisure Centre Membership; Cycle to Work Scheme. Flexi time. Education / qualifications support after qualifying period. Plus much more