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We have an exciting and unique opportunity to join VSA as the Commercial Manager for Easter Anguston Farm in Peterculter. This role is pivotal in the evolution of VSA and the future of the farm itself.
VSA is a 155-year-old independent social care charity based in the North East of Scotland. We provide a wide range of essential services supporting older people, children and families, individuals with mental health and neurodiversity needs, as well as over 2,000 unpaid carers. Our mission is to provide the best of care and support to enable the community to fulfill its potential.
One of VSA’s most unique assets is Easter Anguston Farm, a 90-acre property with natural habitats, fields, woodlands, and a collection of special animals. It is already a popular destination, especially during school holidays when it is open to the public. We believe there is significant potential to build upon its popularity and transform it into a year-round destination.
As the Commercial Manager, you will have the opportunity to develop and oversee multiple revenue streams, enhance community engagement, and create a sustainable and thriving destination for the wider local communities across the North East of Scotland. This role involves not just managing the farm but also innovating and driving its commercial success.
We are looking for a dynamic and goal-oriented individual who can bring fresh ideas and strategic thinking. Your expertise in farm-based business development and passion for sustainability and community involvement will be crucial in helping Easter Anguston Farm reach its potential.
This is an innovative opportunity to make a significant impact. You will be at the forefront of transforming the farm into a premier destination, working with a dedicated team and strategic partners to achieve our ambitious goals.
If you are excited about this challenge and want to make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.
* Salary: £45,000 per annum
* Hours: 35 per week (Monday-Friday). Work outside these hours may sometimes be required due to the role's nature. TOIL will be offered for hours worked at weekends or in exceptional circumstances, as agreed in advance with the Director of BDMI.
Purpose of Role:
To transform Easter Anguston Farm into a premier destination by developing and overseeing multiple revenue streams and enhancing community engagement. The role requires a strategic thinker with expertise in farm-based business development, sustainability, and community involvement.
Main Duties/Responsibilities:
1. Develop and implement a commercial strategy to make Easter Anguston Farm a self-sustaining, high-traffic destination.
2. Collaborate with the care team overseeing VSA’s trainee programme.
3. Identify, secure, and oversee strategic partnerships with businesses for on-site facilities such as a coffee shop, garden centre, gift shop, yoga and wellbeing studio, soft play centre, animal leasing, cattery, and educational programs.
4. Ensure all agreements with strategic partners are in place.
5. Lead marketing and branding initiatives to raise awareness of VSA’s services and increase footfall.
6. Organize seasonal marketing events like Easter Egg Trails, Christmas Markets, and Halloween events.
7. Manage the farm shop, owned by VSA and generating 100% profit for the charity, ensuring it remains a strong profit centre.
8. Work within VSA’s Sustainability policy to protect and enhance the farm’s environment.
Objectives:
Establish at least eight revenue streams at Easter Anguston Farm within the first year.
Qualifications/Training/Education:
* Proven experience in commercial management, preferably in a farm or similar environment.
* Strong business development skills with a track record of managing strategic partnerships.
* Excellent marketing and branding skills.
* Ability to work autonomously with minimal oversight.
* Passion for sustainability and community engagement.
* Educated to Secondary A-Level/Highers or equivalent professional qualification.
* Evidence of continued professional development in relevant disciplines.
Experience:
* Experience in commercial management within farm, tourism, or rural visitor businesses.
* Skills in securing and managing strategic partnerships.
* Marketing and branding expertise.
* Ability to work independently and in complex organizations.
* Experience with not-for-profit sectors, health, and social care organizations is desirable.
* Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Monday.com.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
* Ability to produce high-standard plans, proposals, and reports.
* Excellent project management and organizational skills.
* Capacity to manage conflicting priorities.
* Understanding of project planning and high-profile branding contexts.
Personal Qualities:
* Empathy with VSA’s vision, mission, and values.
* Diplomacy and sensitivity in dealings.
* Self-motivated and proactive.
* Flexible, cooperative, and target-driven.
* Attention to detail and willingness to learn.
* Empathy towards social care needs and colleagues’ working contexts.
Other Job Requirements:
* Flexibility in working hours.
* Subject to PVG Disclosure Scotland check.
* Valid driving license and own transport.
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Sales and Business Development
Industries
* Non-profit Organizations
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