Operations Manager – Countryside accommodation destination

Reporting to:      Director
Role type:             Full-time, on-site
Direct reports:  Operational staff and external contractors
Hours:                   8:30am–4:00pm (Monday – Friday)
Salary:                  £40,000–£45,000, depending on experience

Daly Recruitment are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the daily running of a growing visitor destination.

We have partnered with a distinctive countryside destination currently entering an exciting period of growth. The setting brings together high-quality guest accommodation, outdoor spaces, events and memorable visitor experiences, with ambitious plans to become a leading destination in the region.

This is a hands-on operational leadership role, focused on ensuring the site is well maintained, welcoming and consistently ready for guests. You will oversee accommodation operations, site presentation, housekeeping, maintenance coordination, events support and the day-to-day activities of the operational team.

As the destination continues to develop, you will play an important role in establishing excellent standards, efficient systems and a memorable guest experience.

This is a very exciting opportunity as you are joining a destination in its infancy with huge plans to expand and develop. Perfect for someone wanting to grow and develop themselves.

Would suit someone with strong front of house experience.

The daily aspect of the role will consist of: 

• Lead and coordinate the day-to-day operation of the site.
• Ensure all guest areas, accommodation, facilities and outdoor spaces are clean, safe, well presented and ready for use.
• Set daily priorities for operational, housekeeping and maintenance staff.
• Carry out regular site inspections and address issues promptly.
• Develop clear operational procedures, checklists and standards as the business grows.
• Ensure the team consistently delivers a welcoming, professional guest experience.

Accommodation and Guest Readiness

• Oversee daily accommodation operations, including cabins, lodges and short-term stays.
• Manage check-in, check-out and turnaround schedules.
• Ensure every unit is cleaned, inspected, stocked and fully prepared before guest arrival.
• Coordinate housekeeping, linen, supplies, guest information and key handovers.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance the visitor experience.
• Respond to guest issues and operational queries in a timely and effective manner.

Team and Contractor Management

• Lead, support and develop the operational team.
• Allocate work, monitor completion and ensure standards are maintained.
• Coordinate external contractors, suppliers and maintenance providers.
• Arrange repairs, planned maintenance and urgent works with minimal disruption to guests.
• Manage stock levels for cleaning, housekeeping, guest supplies and operational equipment.

Events and Site Development

• Support the planning and delivery of events and activities on site.
• Ensure the site, team and suppliers are prepared for event days.
• Help develop systems and processes suitable for a growing destination.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, presentation, guest experience and commercial performance.
• Work closely with the Director on operational priorities and future development plans.

Compliance and Budget Management

• Ensure health and safety, fire safety, insurance and site procedures are followed.
• Maintain relevant records, risk assessments, inspection logs and operational documentation.
• Monitor day-to-day expenditure and support budget management.
• Ensure contractors and staff follow appropriate safety and operational standards.

What is our client looking for in a candidate:

Essential:

• Proven experience in operations management within hospitality, accommodation, leisure, tourism, events, facilities or a similar guest-focused environment.
• Experience managing daily operations through a small team.
• Strong understanding of accommodation turnarounds, housekeeping and guest-service standards.
• Experience coordinating maintenance, contractors and suppliers.
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining high standards.
• Competence with Microsoft Office and booking, administrative or finance systems.
• Full driving licence.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends when required.

Desirable:

• Experience working in a developing visitor attraction, hospitality venue or tourism destination.
• Experience with cabins, lodges, glamping or short-term accommodation.
• Familiarity with booking systems, event operations and site management.

For more information on this role please contact Nichola in the strictest of confidence at Nichola@DalyRecruitment.com