Join One of Britain's Most Iconic Visitor Attractions

Castle Howard is one of the country's finest historic houses and gardens, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and hosting a diverse programme of events, exhibitions, filming projects and seasonal experiences. We are looking for an exceptional Operations & Events Manager to lead the operational delivery of our visitor attraction and events programme.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced operational leader to play a key role in shaping the visitor experience at one of the UK's most recognised heritage destinations.

The Role
As Operations & Events Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership of visitor operations across Castle Howard and the Arboretum, ensuring exceptional standards of customer service, presentation, safety and operational excellence. You will also lead the planning and delivery of a varied programme of public events and commercial filming activity across the estate.

Working closely with senior colleagues across the organisation, you will help drive visitor satisfaction, operational performance and commercial success while ensuring that Castle Howard continues to deliver memorable experiences in a way that protects and enhances its heritage

Key Responsibilities
You will:
•    Lead visitor operations across the House, visitor attraction, Arboretum and wider estate.
•    Champion outstanding visitor experiences and customer service standards.
•    Lead, motivate and develop teams across admissions, house operations, outdoor operations, security, facilities and caretaking.
•    Manage and support volunteers across the visitor attraction.
•    Plan and deliver public events, seasonal programmes, commercial filming and location hire activity.
•    Drive continuous improvement through operational planning, data analysis and performance management.
•    Act as a Duty Manager and senior operational lead during peak periods, major events and emergency situations.
•    Ensure compliance with health and safety, security and operational procedures.

About You
We are looking for someone who is:
•    An experienced operational leader within a visitor attraction, heritage, tourism, hospitality or events environment.
•    Passionate about delivering exceptional customer and visitor experiences.
•    Experienced in managing large-scale events and complex operational activity
•    Confident leading teams of paid employees and volunteers. 
•    Organised, commercially aware and able to manage competing priorities. 
•    Calm under pressure and able to make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment. 
•    An excellent communicator who can build strong relationships across teams and with external partners.

What We Offer
This is an opportunity to take on a highly visible leadership role within a unique and inspiring environment. You'll join a passionate team committed to preserving Castle Howard's heritage while delivering outstanding visitor experiences and helping the estate continue to evolve and thrive. 
No two days are the same. From overseeing daily visitor operations to delivering major events and filming projects, this role offers variety, responsibility and the chance to make a real impact.

Working Hours
This role requires flexibility in line with our operational and events calendar, including regular weekend, evening and bank holiday working, particularly during peak periods and the Christmas season

How to Apply
To apply, please submit:
•    Your CV
•    A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role

Closing Date: Friday 17th July 2026
We encourage interested candidates to apply as early as possible. Due to the timing of this recruitment campaign during the summer holiday period, we may extend the closing date if required.

If you are passionate about delivering exceptional visitor experiences, leading high-performing teams and bringing memorable events to life, we'd love to hear from you.