Job Title: Operations Manager
Location: Canal Park, Highland Rugby Football Club
Salary: £35,000 £40,00 (experience dependant) + potential profit-related bonus from 6 months/post probation
Hours: 40 hours/week (including evenings, weekends, and matchdays)
Job Purpose:
To lead, grow and manage Highland RFCs commercial operations, focusing on matchday and non-matchday events, hospitality, and venue hire. This hands-on role involves team leadership, customer engagement, and strategic development to maximise revenue and enhance the clubs reputation.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and manage all club events, conferences, and hospitality days and services.
Oversee and organise matchday hospitality and sponsor engagement.
Recruit, train, and manage flexible hours staff and volunteers.
Independently manage the clubs large, commercial facility
Ensuring all Facility operational records, H&S logs, and staff training documentation are compliant, accurate and up to date.
Liaison with suppliers for all facility management contacts (IE hygiene and waste management
Develop and manage venue bookings and coordinate with external providers.
Manage budgets, monitor costs, and optimise profitability across all operations.
Negotiate supplier contracts and develop pricing strategies.
Develop and support marketing and promotional campaigns to maximise demand.
Promote club and events communications via social media and member app.
Regular reporting to the Board of trustees on financial and operational matters
Person Specification
Essential Experience:
Minimum 4 years experience managing events in hospitality, sports, or similar sectors.
Proven track record in team leadership and customer service.
Experience managing a facility independently, including compliance and staff training records.
Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, including forecasting and financial reporting.
Desirable Experience:
To have, or be willing to work towards, the Scottish Personal Licence.
Familiarity with rugby culture and matchday operations.
SCSSSA/REHIS Food Hygiene Certificate or equivalent.
First Aid at Work certification.
PVG check
Skills & Attributes:
Strong leadership and organisational skills, including forecasting and events planning.
Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
Proficient in hospitality software (CRM, POS) and Microsoft Outlook.
Passion for sport and community engagement.
Ability to work under pressure and adapt quickly.
?? How to Apply
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Kerstine.simleit at highlandrugbyclub.com by Sunday 23 rd November 2025. If you wish to discuss informally first please do get in touch.
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