Operations & Performance Lead (Sports Centres)

Bradfield College is looking for a confident and inspiring leader with significant management experience within the sport, leisure or recreation sector to play a key role in overseeing the operational delivery of two busy and successful sports centres during an exciting period of transformation and growth. Following a comprehensive business review, we are investing in operational, commercial and cultural improvements across Bradfield Sports Complex and St Andrew's Sports Centre. Together, the centres form one of Bradfield Commercial's largest business operations, serving thousands of members, visitors and pupils each week. This is an opportunity to lead from the front: developing high-performing teams, improving operational performance and customer experience, and helping shape how the centres operate and grow in the future. About the role As Operations & Performance Lead, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day operational delivery of both Sports Centres, ensuring they operate safely, efficiently and consistently to the highest standards. You will provide visible leadership to Duty Managers and frontline teams, leading workforce planning, operational performance, service standards, health and safety compliance and continuous improvement across both sites. Working closely with colleagues across sport, education and commercial operations, you will ensure the successful delivery of sporting activities, competitions, community programmes, events and commercial bookings. You will also use operational data, customer feedback and performance measures to identify improvements, strengthen service delivery and support the continued growth and commercial success of the centres. A key part of the role will be developing a motivated and high-performing operational team, creating clear standards and accountability while building a positive culture focused on professionalism, collaboration and excellent customer service. About you You will have a strong track record of leading customer-facing teams, workforce planning and rota management, improving operational performance and successfully implementing change. You will combine strong people leadership with sound commercial judgement, excellent organisational skills and a thorough understanding of sports facility operations, health and safety, safeguarding and customer service. You should also hold relevant professional qualifications in sports or leisure management, health and safety, lifeguarding, pool plant operations and first aid. Benefits In addition to a competitive salary, Bradfield College offers:

• Contributory workplace pension scheme and life cover
• Subsidised membership of the College Sports Centre and Golf Club
• Professional development and training
• BHSF Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes
• Free parking
• Complimentary lunch when College kitchens are open
For further information and to apply for this role please click the apply button. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 25 September 2026. Applications will be processed as they are received, and we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. Bradfield College reserves the right to make an appointment at any time, so early applications are encouraged. Bradfield College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening as part of their application, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

You will have a strong track record of leading customer-facing teams, workforce planning and rota management, improving operational performance and successfully implementing change. You will combine strong people leadership with sound commercial judgement, excellent organisational skills and a thorough understanding of sports facility operations, health and safety, safeguarding and customer service. You should also hold relevant professional qualifications in sports or leisure management, health and safety, lifeguarding, pool plant operations and first aid.

In addition to a competitive salary, Bradfield College offers:
• Contributory workplace pension scheme and life cover
• Subsidised membership of the College Sports Centre and Golf Club
• Professional development and training
• BHSF Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes
• Free parking
• Complimentary lunch when College kitchens are open