Job Description
Important notice
In line with our redeployment policy, we'll prioritise applications from employees who are under formal notice of redundancy.
We're looking for a visionary leader to take the helm at Osterley & Runnymede-two extraordinary places with the power to shape a more inclusive future. This is a rare opportunity to lead from the front, championing a culture where people are at the heart of everything we do. You'll be the driving force behind our ambition to end unequal access, turning strategy into reality and ensuring these places are welcoming and meaningful for everyone.
The advertised salary is inclusive of the outer London weighting allowance of £3,315 per annum.
What it's like to work here
Reporting to the regionally based Assistant Director of Operations, you'll lead the portfolio team across Osterley and Runnymede, representing the organisation with key partners and stakeholders. Osterley Park, a vibrant green space at the heart of its community, and Runnymede, the birthplace of the Magna Carta and a global symbol of democracy and equality, offer an unparalleled platform to engage people from all walks of life. In addition, you'll also care for the nature-rich landscapes of Ankerwyke and Finchampstead Ridges, ensuring their stories and beauty are accessible to all.
This role includes some weekend and occasional evening working.
What you'll be doing
You'll lead a dynamic team of departmental heads, each focused on areas such as gardens, facilities, visitor experience, curatorship, and the care of precious collections. Working closely with regional commercial teams and our internal consultancy, you'll empower your team to succeed and generate the resources needed to invest in conservation and improvement.
You'll shape the future of these places, inspiring staff and volunteers to deliver exceptional experiences for every visitor. You'll manage risk and compliance, and be a passionate advocate for nature, heritage, and inclusion. As an 'expert generalist', you'll thrive in a diverse and fast-paced environment, balancing financial, operational, and strategic priorities.
This is a leadership role with real purpose-where you'll help ensure that everyone, regardless of background, feels these places are for them. Just as Runnymede stands as a beacon of democracy, your leadership will help make our work truly democratic: shaped by, and for, the people we serve.
Who we're looking for
Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:
- experience leading and managing multi-disciplinary teams, including volunteers and specialists
- proven success in developing and delivering long-term plans aligned to organisational goals and priorities
- understands how to manage budgets, generate income, and deliver financial targets
- demonstrable ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders
- understands and applies health & safety, compliance, and risk management practices
- experience leading change and delivering projects that improve performance or outcomes
- demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and creating relevant, accessible experiences for diverse audiences
Criteria for all other applicants:
- proven success in developing and delivering long-term plans aligned to organisational goals and priorities
- experience leading change and delivering projects that improve performance or outcomes
- experience leading and managing multi-disciplinary teams, including volunteers and specialists
- someone who understands the expectations of people who visit places, and how to give them consistently excellent service
- confident in managing operational risk, understanding the fundamental need for compliance and knowing what it means to hold others to account
- a skilled communicator, who can build strong relationships within diverse teams, both internally and externally
- a leader for inclusion, who finds ways to create an inclusive culture.
The package
The National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- EV car lease scheme
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
