Interim Head of Leisure

Interim Head of Leisure Venues – “6-month fixed term”

Location              Hertfordshire

Salary:                 £85,000 pro rata

Are you and experienced leader with strategic and operational experience in Leisure? Do you have experience managing high-profile visitor attractions? I am looking for a mix of operational and commercial experience because this role will focus on maintaining strong day-to-day performance while developing long-term plans to improve financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and future operating models.

Key Duties

Provide overall leadership and accountability for two multi-site leisure venues.Ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality operations across both locations.Monitor performance, budgets, compliance, and operational risk.Lead and develop venue managers, building confidence and autonomy.Embed consistent management practices and operational standards.Develop medium- and long-term strategic plans for both venues.Lead budget planning and produce three-year financial forecasts.Identify income growth, cost-saving, and commercial improvement opportunities.Develop investment options and long-term asset management plans.Work collaboratively with internal teams, partners, and stakeholders.Deliver an options appraisal for future operating models, including outsourcing scenarios.Provide clear recommendations, business cases, and a transition plan.

Requirements

Senior leadership experience in visitor attractions, leisure, cultural, heritage, or multi-site public-facing environments.Strong operational leadership across complex, multi-site operations.Proven commercial and financial management capability.Experience developing business plans, forecasts, and strategic plans.Knowledge of asset management and capital investment prioritisation.Strong stakeholder engagement and partnership-building skills.Experience leading change, transformation, and service improvement.Excellent communication, coaching, and leadership skills.

Experience Required

Senior interim or permanent leadership background in comparable multi-site operations.Track record of improving performance, stability, and service standards.Experience managing budgets, forecasting, and investment planning.Exposure to operating model reviews, restructuring, or outsourcing options.Ability to work strategically while remaining hands-on and visible.Experience across public or private sector settings welcomed.

If you are available immediately and looking for a short-term project, email david@corecruitment.com for more information.