Job Introduction
Bradford Theatres are offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the efficient day-to-day running of Front of House, Bars and Catering, Technical and Facilities functions.
The post holder will have operational oversight and strategic responsibilities including compliance, financial management, sustainability, procurement and workforce development, driving organisational resilience and contributing to commercial success. This role is pivotal in delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining safe and compliant venues and supporting Bradford Theatres long term business objectives.
Bradford Theatres consists of four venues: the award-winning Alhambra Theatre, heritage concert venue St George's Hall plus a Studio in the city centre and the Kings Hall & Winter Garden in Ilkley. Run by Bradford Council Department of Environment, the venues are at an exciting time, with a vibrant and mixed programme attracting audiences of more than 400,000 pa.
Responsibilities
The Operations Manager requires excellent communication skills and people skills and will be able to juggle and prioritise multiple demands. Their main responsibilities include:
- Line management of operational team members, ensuring consistent leadership and high performance standards and contributing to strategic planning as part of the venue's Senior Management Team.
- Ensuring high standards of customer service and audience experience across all operational areas.
- Acting as the lead officer for building maintenance issues and building safety in conjunction with internal Council departments, ensuring full H&S and statutory compliance,
- Maintaining and updating risk registers. emergency plans and business continuity strategies, including adherence to Martyn's Law and Prevent and Protect.
- Working with the General Manger on developing business and new income streams.
- Leading on procurement and environmental sustainability for Bradford Theatres operational departments (Front of House, Bars & Catering, Technical, Facilities).
- Embedding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion principles across operational practices, championing a positive organisational culture and supporting staff engagement and well-being.
Working Conditions
37 hours per week Monday - Friday, with occasional evenings. weekends and bank holidays.
The role is based in Bradford City Centre with occasional work at Kings Hall & Winter Garden in Ilkley.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining our team and would like some further information, please contact Laura Wood, Deputy General Manager on email laura.wood@bradford.gov.uk or call via the Alhambra Theatre stage door on 01274 432375. Interviews for shortlisted applicants will take place w/c 16 February 2026.
Employee Offer
Why work for Bradford Council? Find out why by taking a look at Our Employee Offer.pdf
Equal Opportunities
We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee directly or indirectly on the grounds of gender, marital status, gender re-assignment, pregnancy, sexual orientation, disability, race, colour, ethnic background, religion or belief nationality or age. And, as an equal opportunities employer, the Council strives to employ the best qualified people from a diverse range of applicants.
The RESPECT Allyship Programme is available to all staff, which offers the opportunity to learn more about the diverse communities & groups and provides added benefits and resources to its members.
