Senior Operations Manager

Senior Operations Manager

Alexandra Arts Centre Closing date: Mon, 16 Nov 2026

Artform: Theatre
Role: Customer Service
Contract: Permanent
South East

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced, practical and enthusiastic Senior Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of the Alexandra Arts Centre.

Job Description

Salary: £38,000-£40,000 per annum, depending on experience
Contract: Permanent, full-time (40 hours per week)
Closing date: 16 November 2026

The Alexandra Arts Centre is an exciting new cultural venue in the heart of Bognor Regis, operated by Arun Arts, a registered charity. With a 386-seat auditorium, five multi-purpose studios and food and beverage facilities, the Centre will host a vibrant programme of theatre, music, comedy, dance, family entertainment, community activities and events.

We are seeking an experienced, practical and enthusiastic Senior Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of the Centre, ensuring it operates safely, efficiently and to a consistently high standard.

Reporting to the Venue Director, you will lead front-of-house operations, manage our Duty Managers and volunteers, oversee building and technical operations, and coordinate cleaning, security and food and beverage services. You will champion accessibility and inclusion, maintain high standards of customer service, and ensure health and safety, safeguarding and licensing requirements are met.

You will also act as Deputy to the Venue Director, providing leadership and making operational decisions in their absence. As a key member of the senior management team, you will help establish the systems, procedures and teams needed for a successful opening and the Centre's long-term development.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in a busy public-facing environment, enjoys solving problems and is passionate about creating a welcoming, accessible and exceptional experience for audiences, performers, hirers, staff and volunteers.

Working pattern: Flexibility is essential, including regular evenings, weekends and occasional bank holidays, with time off in lieu in accordance with organisational policies.

For the full job description and person specification, visit alexandraartscentre.org.uk/jobs.

Job Requirements

Essential

Experience in venue operations, front-of-house management, visitor services or a similar public-facing environment.

Experience managing staff, coordinating teams and recruiting, training or supporting volunteers.

Strong organisational, communication and people management skills, including rostering and resource planning.

A good understanding of customer service, health and safety, fire safety and emergency procedures.

A commitment to accessibility, inclusion and welcoming visitor experiences.

Confidence handling operational issues, incidents and complaints, making decisions and remaining calm under pressure.

Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and occasional bank holidays.

Willingness and eligibility to obtain a Personal Licence and undertake the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) role, if not already licensed.

Desirable

Experience in a theatre, arts centre or live events venue.

Experience managing contractors, Duty Managers or accessible events.

Job Responsibilities

Oversee the safe, efficient day-to-day operation of the Centre, including front of house, box office, performances, events and studio hires.

Act as Deputy to the Venue Director, providing leadership and making operational decisions in their absence.

Recruit, manage, train and rota Casual Duty Managers and volunteers, maintaining high standards of service and support.

Line manage the Building & Technical Manager and coordinate building operations, maintenance, cleaning and security contractors.

Champion accessibility and inclusion, ensuring visitors receive a welcoming and supportive experience.

Oversee health and safety, risk assessments, fire safety, emergency procedures, safeguarding, licensing and venue security compliance.

Act as Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS), subject to the necessary licence and formal appointment.

Coordinate operational arrangements with the food and beverage provider.

Useful Links

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Senior Operations Manager
  • Salary: £30k-£40k
  • Hours: Full time
  • Artform: Theatre
  • Role: Customer Service
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Closing date: Mon, 16 Nov 2026
  • Location:
    South East
    | view on Google Maps

Job: Senior Operations Manager

Job: Senior Operations Manager

Organisation: Alexandra Arts Centre

Postcode: PO21 1BL

How to Apply

Please submit a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role by 5pm on 16 November2027. Please submit to our Recruitment team @ [email protected]