Commercial and Operations Manager

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a socially responsible organisation that empowers people with learning disabilities and autism. You'll drive sustainable growth across hospitality, retail, events, and fundraising - while ensuring every visitor experience is engaging, inclusive, and memorable., ? Lead strategic commercial initiatives and identify new income opportunities ? Oversee site operations, compliance, and health & safety ? Deliver creative, inclusive visitor experiences and events ? Manage retail and hospitality services to maximise profitability ? Develop stakeholder relationships and community engagement ? Inspire and lead a multidisciplinary team with a focus on inclusion and growth ? Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial performance

Proven experience in commercial and operational leadership Strong financial acumen and strategic planning skills Passion for inclusive services and community impact Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement Flexibility to support seven-day trading and events Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in leading commercial and operational functions within hospitality, visitor attractions, or related sectors.
• Strong track record of delivering income growth through strategic planning and execution.
• Sound financial acumen with experience in budget management, forecasting, and ROI analysis.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing diverse teams across multiple disciplines.
• Knowledge of health & safety, safeguarding, and compliance regulations.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High digital literacy and data-driven decision-making capability.
Desirable Experience & Qualifications
• Experience in the charity or social enterprise sector.
• Background in inclusive visitor experience design, commercial enterprise or community engagement.
• Understanding of multi-site operations and strategic facilities management.
• Project Management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2, APM).
• Experience in customer and visitor marketing engagement
  
  At the Aldingbourne Trust, you'll join a forward-thinking charity that celebrates innovation, inclusion, and meaningful impact. Your leadership will directly help us create opportunities for people with learning disabilities and autism to thrive.
We offer a competitive benefits package including:
• Contributory pension scheme
• 25 days annual leave (plus service-based increments)
• Life assurance (2x annual salary)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Bicycle and eye care vouchers
• Discounted gym membership and staff discounts at Aldingbourne sites
• Peer support groups and wellbeing initiatives
• £200 refer-a-friend scheme and staff awards programme