Job Description:
- This role involves communicating with customers who speak English and Afrikaans. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages, to a level suitable for the role is required
- Must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree
- Accommodation and sponsorship assistance is available for the right candidate
Salary: A competitive annual package.
Hours: Full time – Must include weekends.
Location: The Story of Emily, St Ive, Liskeard
The Story of Emily is a living museum and immersive exhibition, set within the restored grounds of The Rectory, the family home of Emily Hobhouse. It tells the story of Emily Hobhouse’s life and humanitarian work, offering an inclusive view of the Anglo-Boer War and her continued fight for women’s rights. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the universal complexities of war and its effect on society and civilization.
This is a senior leadership role combining commercial management, heritage stewardship, hospitality excellence, and community representation.
Purpose of the role:
To lead The Story of Emily as a sustainable, high-quality heritage and hospitality business, delivering its cultural mission, financial performance, and long-term growth through strong strategy, disciplined execution, and outstanding people leadership.
Requirements and Responsibilities:
1. Strategy, Planning & Delivery
- Lead the creation and delivery of the site’s strategy through the annual business planning and budgeting process.
- Translate long-term objectives into clear operational plans, capital programmes, and growth initiatives.
- Ensure all departments are aligned behind the agreed business plan and performance targets.
2. Financial Leadership & Governance
- Full ownership of the site P&L, including revenue, cost control, margin, and investment decisions.
- Ensure decisions are made within the framework of good financial governance, risk management, and accountability.
- Oversee pricing, staffing models, and capital investment to maximise long-term sustainability.
3. Operations & Guest Experience
Overall leadership of all site operations including:
- Visitor experience (Rectory, War Rooms, exhibitions, hosting)
- Restaurant, retail and events
- Grounds, gardens, and estate presentation
- Technical and exhibition systems
Ensure consistently high standards of safety, reliability, storytelling, and hospitality.
4. Property & Landlord Responsibilities
Act as landlord for all properties on site, including staff accommodation and rental properties.
Ensure full legal and regulatory compliance across:
- Health & Safety
- Gas, electrical and fire compliance
- Letting and tenancy obligations
- Property maintenance and risk management
5. People Leadership, Culture & Conflict Resolution
- Lead and develop the full management and frontline team.
- Handle dispute resolution, conflict management, and performance management to maintain a healthy, respectful and productive working culture.
- Build a high-trust leadership team capable of delivering both day-to-day operations and long-term growth.
6. Stakeholder & Shareholder Reporting
Own the formal reporting process to senior stakeholders and shareholders.
Provide clear, accurate and timely updates on:
- Financial performance
- Operational health
- Risks and issues
- Strategic progress
7. External Representation & Profile
Represent The Story of Emily at:
- Local, national and international conferences
- Industry events and awards
- Community and heritage forums
Deliver presentations to interest groups, media, and partners for promotional and educational purposes.
Act as the public face of the attraction with:
- Local government
- Community organisations
- Tourism bodies
- Awards and heritage institutions
8. Partnerships & Reputation
Build and manage relationships with:
- Local councils and tourism organisations
- Community groups
- Cultural and heritage bodies
- Suppliers, sponsors and partners
Protect and enhance the reputation, credibility, and national profile of The Story of Emily.
Benefits:
- Relocation and arrangement of working permit included for the right candidate
- A competitive annual package.
- International travel opportunities.
- 30 days’ holiday per year
- Exceptional working environment, with free, estate-grown meals provided daily while on duty
- Complimentary Garden Membership for you and your family, including partner gardens across the UK
- 30% discount in our estate shops and restaurants, plus free delivery for online purchases
- Discounted hotel stays for staff and family
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Housing allowance
- On-site parking
- UK visa sponsorship
