Rink jobs

Event Manager / Ice Rink Manager

The Great Skate at Blenheim Palace

Location: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire

Salary: Competitive – dependent on experience

Job Type: Seasonal / Fixed-Term Contract

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Event Manager / Ice Rink Manager to oversee the safe, efficient and successful operation of The Great Skate at Blenheim Palace.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced event professional or ice rink manager to take a leading role in delivering a high-quality seasonal attraction at one of the UK's most prestigious visitor destinations.

We are particularly interested in candidates with a background in event management, ice rink operations, large-scale public events, leisure attractions or similar operational environments.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing day-to-day operations, leading the team, maintaining high standards of health and safety and ensuring every visitor enjoys a safe, memorable and enjoyable experience.

We are looking for a hands-on manager who can take ownership of the operation, lead confidently under pressure and ensure the attraction runs smoothly throughout the season.

Key Responsibilities

- Manage the day-to-day operation of The Great Skate, ensuring the attraction operates safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.

- Lead, motivate and manage the operational team, including staff training, rotas, performance management and day-to-day supervision.

- Ensure all health and safety procedures, risk assessments, operating procedures and emergency arrangements are implemented and followed.

- Act as a first aid lead when required, responding appropriately to incidents and maintaining accurate incident records.

- Oversee ice rink operations, including ice quality, skate hire, equipment management and general facility maintenance.

- Coordinate with ice technicians, contractors, suppliers and other event stakeholders.

- Manage customer enquiries, complaints and operational challenges professionally.

- Conduct regular safety inspections and ensure the venue remains clean, presentable and ready for visitors.

- Monitor staffing levels, visitor flow and operational performance, particularly during peak trading periods.

- Maintain accurate operational records, staff documentation and incident reports.

- Respond effectively to operational issues, emergencies and unforeseen circumstances.

- Ensure the team consistently delivers excellent customer service.

- Work closely with senior management to achieve operational targets and maintain the overall success of the event.

Essential Requirements

- A valid first aid qualification is essential.

- Proven experience as an event manager, ice rink manager or in a similar operational management role.

- Experience managing staff and overseeing day-to-day operations.

- Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.

- A good understanding of health and safety within public-facing events or leisure environments.

- The ability to make effective decisions and remain calm under pressure.

- Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive, hands-on approach.

- A strong customer service focus.

- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays as required throughout the season.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

- FREC 3 (First Response Emergency Care Level 3) qualification.

- Previous experience managing an ice rink or seasonal visitor attraction.

- Experience delivering large-scale public events, festivals or temporary attractions.

- Experience managing seasonal teams and coordinating contractors or suppliers.

- Knowledge of ice rink operations, skate hire systems and ice maintenance (full training will be provided)

- Experience with staff scheduling, risk assessments, incident management and operational planning.

What We Offer

- Competitive pay, dependent on experience and qualifications.

- The opportunity to manage a high-profile seasonal attraction at Blenheim Palace.

- A varied and rewarding role within the events, leisure and attractions industry.

- The opportunity to lead an operational team and take ownership of a busy public-facing event.

- Valuable experience working within a major seasonal attraction.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is passionate about delivering successful events and understands what it takes to run a safe, efficient and enjoyable visitor experience.

Whether your background is in event management or ice rink management, you will be confident leading teams, managing operational challenges and taking responsibility for the smooth running of a busy seasonal attraction.

You will be organised, approachable, commercially aware and able to balance the demands of daily operations with the highest standards of safety and customer service.

Previous ice rink experience would be advantageous, but we strongly encourage applications from experienced event managers with transferable skills and a proven track record of managing teams, operations and public-facing events.

If you are an experienced event or ice rink manager looking for your next challenge, we would love to hear from you.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV through Indeed, outlining your relevant management experience and current first aid qualifications.

Pay: £15.00-£18.00 per hour

Work Location: In person