Sports Centre Director

About the Role

Our client is looking for an accomplished and strategic Sports Centre Director to manage and elevate their expansive sports and leisure facilities in Sunderland . This senior leadership position requires a visionary individual capable of overseeing all operational, financial, and strategic aspects of the centre, ensuring exceptional service delivery, member satisfaction, and robust financial performance. You will be responsible for leading a diverse team, driving innovation in programming, and fostering a community-focused atmosphere, all while upholding the highest standards of operational excellence and sustainability within the leisure sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the sports centre, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Manage all operational departments, including facilities, fitness, aquatics, sports, and customer service.
• Develop and implement business plans to achieve revenue targets, control costs, and enhance profitability.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of centre managers and departmental heads.
• Oversee marketing, sales, and member engagement strategies to drive participation and retention.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory standards, maintaining a safe environment for all users.

Requirements

• Significant experience (8+ years) in a senior management role within the sports, leisure, or hospitality industry.
• Demonstrated success in financial management, budgeting, and P&L responsibility.
• Strong strategic planning, business development, and operational management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• A degree in Sports Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Experience in managing large-scale facilities and diverse teams.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Full private medical and dental coverage.
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Significant holiday entitlement and potential for sabbaticals.
• Company car and other executive benefits.