ASVA’s new Quality Scheme is now live to join! Find out more info here.

Management

The Role of Assistant Manager

The Chocolatarium is one of Edinburgh’s best-loved visitor attractions, boasting a 98% 5-star rating from visitors. Located in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, we are a chocolate-themed visitor attraction where visitors can discover the wonders of chocolate through engaging tours. We also have a well-stocked gift shop filled with delicious treats and online chocolate store.

We are currently looking for a hard-working, organised, responsible, proactive, and friendly Assistant Manager to support the business in running the day-to-day operations.

Who We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate is a brilliant communicator, warm and approachable, with a proven track record of delivering exceptional customer service, ideally in the visitor attraction sector. You’ll be confident in managing a small team, fostering a supportive working environment, and delivering an unforgettable experience for visitors.

During your training, you will become an expert in chocolate, with ongoing opportunities to learn more about this fascinating product. Don’t worry if you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, as long as you love chocolate!

Key Responsibilities

Duty Manager Role: Take responsibility for the smooth running of the attraction in the absence of the Attraction Manager, including rota management and sickness cover
Guiding Tours: Lead and deliver fun, engaging, and informative tours that consistently earn 5-star reviews.
Tour Preparation & Cleanup: Set up for and tidy up after tours to ensure a smooth, professional operation.
Gift Shop Operations: Serve customers, maintain stock, package orders and ensure the shop is always presented to the highest standard.
Customer Service and Managing Tour Bookings: Respond to customer email and social media inquiries, handle group and special event bookings, handle complaints, and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
Inventory Management: Help manage deliveries, orders, and supplies for both the tours and the gift shop.
Supervising, Training and Recruitment: Assist in recruiting, training, and managing a team of guides, fostering a supportive and positive team environment.
Strategy & Improvements: In time, suggest and implement new tour ideas and strategies to attract more visitors and enhance their experience.
Operations & Compliance: Ensure all staff follow company policies and maintain health and safety standards.
Depending on the interests and career goals of the successful candidate, the may be involved in other aspects of the business such as marketing, chocolateering or product development.

Essential Skills and Experience

A brilliant tour guide with a proven track record of consistent 5-star reviews and passion for providing an unforgettable visitor experience. If you have similar experience such as activity leading or teaching, this will be considered.
Adaptable and flexible mindset, essential for working in a dynamic, growing company and positive, can-do attitude.
Ability to manage and support staff and willingness to take on responsibilities.
Ability to remain calm under pressure and troubleshoot tricky situations.
Computer literacy.
Ability to take on an on-site, full-time role (37.5 hours per week) that will include evening and weekend working.

To Apply

First go the the Work for Us page of our website and answer the Assistant Manager Application Questionnaire. The questions take less than 5 minutes and help us to be able to quickly and fairly compare candidates.

Send your CV to hr@chocolatarium.co.uk with a short covering email.

Good luck with your application and look forward to hearing from you!

CHLH/2503/20 Large Objects Curator (Part time – 17.5hrs per week)

Fixed Term Contract – 4 years

High Life Highland is a dynamic and exciting Charity to work for with our purpose being to make life better for everyone, including our employees. We strive to provide a family friendly work environment for all employees so that they find it easier to balance family and work obligations.

Job Purpose: To contribute to High Life Highland’s Museums’ development and operation through the management of and access to, primarily, the Highland Folk Museum’s larger accessioned and working collections and related resources.

You will work within our curatorial team at the Highland Folk Museum and have a shared responsibility to manage, organize, document and create access to the collections. You will also collaborate with colleagues, volunteers, and external partners to enable and improve collections’ access through learning programs, interactive interpretation, activities or events.

If you would like more information on this role and how to apply, please follow the link below.

Do you have a passion for history, leadership, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences?
Are you ready to bring a unique historical site to life while leading an inspiring team? If so, Peterhead Prison is looking for an enthusiastic, hands-on leader to join us as our Attraction Manager.

This is an exciting opportunity to take charge of one of Scotland’s most iconic historical attractions and shape its future, while ensuring it remains an unforgettable destination for visitors.

Why This Role?

As the Attraction Manager at Peterhead Prison, you’ll be at the heart of transforming this iconic historical site into a world-class tourism destination. From overseeing day-to-day operations to implementing exciting new experiences, you’ll have the chance to create an environment where history comes to life and visitors are captivated. Lead a passionate team and guide the attraction’s strategic direction while ensuring the highest standards of operation, visitor engagement, and heritage preservation.

What You’ll Do:

  • Strategic Leadership:
    Shape long-term plans for growth and development alongside senior leadership. You’ll be the driving force behind creating compelling business strategies and executing plans that ensure continued success and growth for Peterhead Prison.
  • Financial Management:
    Lead the management of budgets and financial performance. You’ll track KPIs, meet financial targets, and explore new opportunities for revenue generation—while keeping costs under control.
  • Visitor Experience Excellence:
    Ensure every visitor has an unforgettable experience. From immersive tours to interactive exhibits, you’ll continuously innovate and improve the visitor journey, maintaining high standards across the board.
  • Heritage & Conservation:
    Safeguard the rich history of Peterhead Prison through careful conservation and presentation. You’ll play a crucial role in maintaining the attraction’s heritage while delivering a world-class experience for visitors.
  • Team Leadership:
    Inspire, develop, and lead a high-performing team. You’ll recruit, onboard, and coach staff, fostering a positive culture that motivates everyone to deliver the best possible experience to visitors.
  • Risk & Compliance Management:
    Ensure the safety and security of staff and visitors by managing health, safety, and compliance with relevant legislation, while minimizing risks across all aspects of the attraction.
  • Collaboration & Engagement:
    Build strong relationships with colleagues across the business and external stakeholders. You’ll collaborate with marketing, sales, and finance teams to drive the success of the attraction and explore partnership opportunities.

About You:

To succeed in this role, you’ll need a combination of leadership expertise, strategic thinking, and a deep appreciation for history and heritage. The ideal candidate will have:

  • Proven Leadership Experience: Experience in managing teams and creating a positive, high-performing work culture in a customer-facing environment.
  • Strategic & Financial Acumen: The ability to develop and manage budgets, set KPIs, and deliver on financial targets.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: A proactive, organised approach to navigating operational challenges and driving improvements.
  • Excellent Communication Skills: You know how to engage and build relationships with people at all levels—whether staff, visitors, or external partners.
  • Passion for Heritage & Education: A deep commitment to preserving the past while offering educational and engaging experiences to visitors.
  • Risk & Compliance Experience: Confidence in managing health, safety, and compliance requirements.

Experience in tourism, heritage, hospitality, or a related industry is preferred, but not required.

 What’s in It for You?

  • Make an Impact: Lead one of Scotland’s most historic attractions, influencing its future and shaping an exceptional visitor experience.
  • Professional Growth: This role offers numerous opportunities for personal development in leadership, financial management, and strategic planning.
  • Collaborative Culture: Work with a team that values creativity, innovation, and respect, united by a shared mission to bring history to life.
  • Competitive Package: A competitive salary, company pension, employee discounts, and other benefits.

About Peterhead Prison:

Step back in time at Peterhead Prison, a unique and fascinating attraction with a rich history that spans over 125 years. Known as “Scotland’s Toughest Jail,” this former Victorian HM Convict Prison holds incredible stories of courage and conflict. Located on a 6-acre site, it boasts one of the UK’s first state-owned railways and was even the site of the only time the SAS was called to end a domestic siege in mainland Britain.

Visitors experience what life was really like inside one of Scotland’s most infamous prisons—and you’ll be the leader responsible for ensuring this rich history is brought to life in thrilling and memorable ways.

Ready to Lead the Way?

Apply now to become the Attraction Manager at Peterhead Prison and take the reins of an exciting, history-filled future. Let’s create unforgettable experiences together!

How to Apply:
Submit your application today and embark on a rewarding career

Salary: £30,000 – £32,000 per year
Benefits: Company pension, employee discounts, and more
Schedule: Monday to Friday, with weekend and night shifts

Location: Peterhead, AB42 2ZX (relocation required if necessary)

Experience: Minimum 1 year in customer service (required)

Licence/Certification: Driving licence (preferred)

To apply email your CV to Human Resources at hr@covegroup.co.uk

We look forward to hearing from you!

Scottish Canals are the custodians of the nation’s canal network and surrounding estates. Our vision is to invest in the canal network to generate lasting benefit for people and communities; celebrating their industrial heritage, ensuring they offer quality green and blue spaces for people and communities and contribute to Scotland’s resilience in tackling climate change.

Our success is rooted in valuing the contributions of our entire team – we care, we create, and we collaborate to continue to deliver a whole range of activities from boating, paddling, walking and wheeling to living and playing and improving what the canals have to offer to our visitors and communities. We also work collaboratively with our partners and stakeholders to contribute to a wealthier, fairer, greener, and more resilient Scotland.

As an employer we offer a truly unique opportunity to be part of our team, help us realise our vision and contribute to safeguarding our heritage and ensuring our canals flourish now and in the future.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Technical Manager to join Engineering & Infrastructure in Glasgow/Falkirk, Scotland leading the Civils Design team. You will develop, plan and report on a Capital Delivery Programme program ensuring safety, asset performance and service levels are maintained in conjunction with the delivery of wider Scottish Canals strategic goals.

The role is offered on a permanent basis, and with a starting salary of £53,452 (Band G). Working hours 35 hours per week, Monday- Friday.

Scottish Canals offer a generous annual leave entitlement of 28 days, plus 10 public holidays, along with enhanced sick pay, discounted shopping vouchers, health cash plan and a contributory pension scheme with up to 10% employer contribution.

Primary responsibilities of the role:

-In liaison with the Head of Engineering & Infrastructure Technical Assets Manager and the Contracts Manager, ensure that appropriate budget provision is identified through the Scottish Canals Capital Investment Plan.
-In liaison with the Head of Engineering & Infrastructure Technical Assets and the Contracts Manager, ensure robust cost estimates are developed and delivered to inform the Capital Investment Plan 5 year projections
-Using appropriate systems, scope and plan high risk project(s) and where appropriate liaise with the project sponsor. Plan and sequence project activities, define goals and deliverables. Identify and manage project milestones ensuring factors do not cause delay or become critical to the delivery of the programme. Regularly update systems with required project information and generate milestone reports where required.
-In liaison with all stakeholders determine required resources for the project(s), including staffing levels, facilities and equipment and where appropriate organise resources in conjunction with Works Planner(s).
-Ensure appropriate stages of project(s) comply with Stage Gate processes.
-Ensure that all parties are aware of obligations under the current iteration of the Construction Design Management Regulations (CDM Regs).
-In liaison with the Head of Engineering & Infrastructure and the Contracts Manager, develop project budget proposals, cost plan and the cash flow. Ensure that the plan is constantly updated and reflects changes in the project. Ensure that budget proposals and cost plans reflect the most efficient method of project delivery.
-Facilitate project meetings, prepare minutes taken and produce regular reports on all aspects of the project including budget, cost reporting, programme and progress, risk, safety and quality issues etc.
-Monitor performance of project suppliers (internal and external) in the deliverables of the project and their compliance with specified requirements and health and safety. -Report any concerns to the appropriate Contract Manager.
-Manage project risk using Scottish Canals defined risk management systems. Escalate significant risk related issues to appropriate management.
-Ensure that environmental and heritage issues are considered at all project phases in conjunction with Health, Safety & Sustainability Department.
-Update all stakeholders regarding project works that directly affect customers’ use of the waterway network, throughout the life of the project and liaise regularly with the Communications Team to ensure appropriate information is provided timeously for all projects.
-Actively participate in stand-by and call out rota as Duty Engineer.
-Review project performance following completion in accordance with Scottish Canals defined processes and standards, highlighting any areas for improvements or elements of good practice to be considered in future projects

Qualifications and knowledge required:

-Honours/Masters Degree in Civil/Civil & Environmental Engineering.
-Chartered Engineer (CEng) Status (through ICE/CIHT) preferred, however candidates holding IEng will be considered
-NEC Reg Certification is essential, however consideration will be given to candidates committing to gaining Registration
-Detailed understanding and experience of Project and Contract Management
-Proficient in working collaboratively with Contractors and Consultants to deliver projects in restrictive timescales
-Demonstrable experience of delivering civil engineering activities.
-Continuous Professional Development
-Liaise closely with professional bodies to share best practice and new developments.

Skills and experience required:

-Good standard of written communication and proven ability to present technical data to non-technical audiences.
-Proficient in the use of a personal computer and business applications software eg MS Office.
-Able to use appropriate functions within AMX proficiently.
-Valid driving licence appropriate for vehicle to be driven.
-Analyse information to make technical engineering judgements and recommendations to ensure the risks attached to Scottish Canals assets are managed and defined standards are met.
-Use professional knowledge and experience to provide definitive recommendations to senior managers and other colleagues on appropriate approach, coaching the team on more complex cases.
-Make appropriate lone working judgements taking full account of environment and climate conditions.
-Interpret statutory requirements and adapt processes to take account of these.

Qualities & abilities required:

-Report on the performance of the network and asset condition degradation. Use engineering expertise to review inspection recommendations, prioritise defects and work requests to create optimised work programmes and ensure legal compliance and risk management.
-Develop work information packs for delivery by Engineering, Maintenance and Customer Operation Teams and progress engineering projects through the initial stages of the Scottish Canals Project Management Process.
-Manage the Asset Inspection Team, undertake training and mentoring, provide technical support, and deploy the resource effectively to ensure compliance with inspection programmes, procedures, and provision of data to AMX.

Scottish Canals reserve the right to close this vacancy before the closing date if enough applications are received.

Stills Centre for Photography based in the heart of Edinburgh. Established in 1977, we have a long history of supporting the advancement, enjoyment, exploration and understanding of photography in Scotland. Our core work includes:

● Exhibitions & Events: Stills plays an important role in sustaining Scotland’s unique photography sector by presenting the work of prominent Scottish photographers, as well as bringing international exhibitions to Scotland for the first time. We produce three major photography exhibitions each year and host a range of other displays and events.
● Creative Learning: This includes Stills School, our alternative photography school designed for young people who face barriers to the arts.
● Production & Facilities: We have the largest open-access darkroom facilities in Scotland, a digital suite of iMacs and high-quality printers and scanners. We also offer a wide range of high-quality training by experienced tutors.
● Lending Library: We have the largest publicly accessible collection of photography books in Scotland, which continues to be a resource for students, tutors and photography enthusiasts.

Within the Development Manager (Maternity Cover) role, you will make an essential contribution to the development and sustainability of the organisation. This is an exciting time to join the Stills team, as we continue to develop our work and plan for Stills’ 50th anniversary in 2027. You will also have the opportunity to bring your own skills to the role, supporting Stills’ financial sustainability and in-line with our vision and ethos. Within the Development Manager (Maternity Cover) role, you will work closely with the Director and be responsible for:
● Generating income for Stills from a number of key fundraising sources including Trusts and Foundations, individual giving and corporate sponsorship.
● Identifying strategic opportunities for future fundraising and income generation.
● Ensuring compliance with fundraising codes of ethics and practice.

An exciting and challenging opportunity has arisen to join Live Borders as our Chief Executive Officer to transform the organisation into a vibrant, sustainable and award-winning charitable trust.

We are working with our valued recruitment partner Aspen People on this search and for a confidential discussion please get in touch with Catriona Mackie or David Currie at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555.

We are delighted to announce that our search has begun for the next Regius Keeper (CEO) of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

An exceptional leader is sought for the role which will shape our organisation for the years to come as we build a positive future for plants, people and the planet.

The Royal Botanic Garden is a leading botanic garden and global centre for biodiversity science, horticulture and education. Dating back over 350 years, we conserve one of the world’s richest botanical collections at our four Gardens: Edinburgh; Benmore; Dawyck and Logan.

We are forward-thinking and innovative, pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge to find and apply solutions to the biodiversity crisis and climate emergency in Scotland and beyond. We engage nationally and internationally, empowering individuals, communities and partners to protect our botanic world.

The successful applicant will demonstrate visionary leadership, innovation and strategic thinking along with commercial acumen, a collaborative approach and a real passion for the world of plants.

Simon Milne, the current and 16th Regius Keeper, is preparing to retire at the end of 2025. During his tenure, he has transformed the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh increasing external collaborations, our profile and investment to leverage impact on a global scale.

We are now seeking a talented leader who will become the 17th Regius Keeper of the organisation. We are a committed to inclusion across our organisation and to creating diversity at a senior level.

If you think that you could be the 17th Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, please visit our website to download the candidate pack and find out how to apply for this prestigious and incredibly rare role.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Retail operation

With a flair for visual merchandising, design eye-catching displays that make effective use of space and are in line with the projected sales mix.

Be accountable for effective stock control and management – managing the goods receipting process, storage and stock taking of all retail products.

Develop and embed robust processes and routines for the replenishment of stock, ensuring that high standards of display are maintained throughout the trading day.

Build the team’s product knowledge, encouraging personal recommendations, upselling, cross-selling and the promotion of special offers.

Understand and adhere to the sale of alcohol legislation as a Premises Manager.

Contribute to range reviews and the identification opportunities for the development of new and bespoke products.

Seek opportunities to support local enterprise and creative talent, working with the central retail team to build relationships with local suppliers and partners.

Work closely with our central retail and other NTS shop managers to share best practice and ensure our offer is closely aligned with Trust-wide strategic goals.

Visitor experience

Create a culture of exceptional service, every time, leading by example with the warm welcome you give to a varied audience of individual visitors, international tourists, travel trade groups and our local community.

Monitor customer reviews, visitor survey and mystery visit results, developing action plans to address feedback and improve the visitor experience.

Take a lead role in developmental projects to enhance our retail offer and on-site facilities.

Generate inspirational content for social media and media promotion.

People management

Recruit, train, develop and performance manage your team to ensure they are fully equipped and motivated to undertake their front and back-of-house duties.

Coordinate the production of rotas to ensure we deploy staff resources effectively, in line with business needs and budget allowances.

Oversee a safe and smooth visitor centre operation as part of the duty manager team, minimising the risk of incidents or accidents and providing leadership in the case of an emergency.

Finance performance

Deliver a £million retail turnover, working closely with the Operations Manager to set budgets, monitor, analyse and report on income and expenditure targets, making proactive/reactive adjustments to deliver strong, sustainable commercial performance for our charity.

Supervise secure and accurate till operations, perform end-of-day income reconciliation as a duty manager and conduct month-end and year-end financial management procedures.

Champion environmentally sustainable practices in all aspects of the shop operation and ensure the longevity of our equipment through appropriate maintenance regimes.

An exciting opportunity for a dynamic and passionate individual to lead a world-class, 5-star visitor attraction into a new era and ensure that it is a place of excellence, connection, and discovery.

ROLE OVERVIEW
About the Calanais Visitor Centre

At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we are committed to preserving, researching, and sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep connection between the site, the community, and the wider world. As we embark on a transformative redevelopment, we are looking for an inspiring and strategic leader to join us in shaping the future of this remarkable site.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, operates within a culture of respect, and creates a welcoming environment for all employees.

Role Purpose

The Calanais Visitor Centre is undergoing an ambitious £10.1 million redevelopment and will reopen in early 2026 as a world-class, 5-star visitor attraction and a thriving community hub. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a forward-thinking General Manager to lead the Centre into this new era. You will oversee daily operations, develop and enhance visitor experiences, and drive the Centre’s strategic vision, ensuring its success as a premier destination and vital community asset.

This role requires a dynamic and passionate leader with the skills, experience, and vision to support the local tourism industry, inspire a high-performing team, and ensure that the Calanais Visitor Centre is a place of excellence, connection, and discovery.

Requirements
Roles & Responsibilities

Strategic & Operational Leadership

Lead the overall operations of the Visitor Centre, ensuring an exceptional visitor experience.
Work closely with the Heritage Manager, who will oversee exhibitions, interpretation, and community engagement initiatives.
Develop and implement strategic plans to manage visitor flow, support sustainable tourism, and maximise revenue streams.
Ensure financial sustainability through effective budgeting and financial oversight.
Lead on a collaborative and motivated team culture, promoting professional development and continuous improvement.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

Act as an ambassador for the Calanais Visitor Centre, building strong relationships with local communities, businesses, and key stakeholders.
Support the Heritage Manager in developing partnerships and engagement initiatives that ensure the Centre remains a vibrant local resource.
Work alongside the Board to maintain positive relationships with Historic Environment Scotland, which manages the Stones.
Visitor Experience & Innovation

Champion innovation by introducing creative initiatives that enhance the visitor experience and encourage repeat visits.
Ensure the highest levels of customer satisfaction by implementing best practices in visitor engagement and hospitality.
Develop and oversee marketing strategies to elevate the Centre’s profile locally, nationally, and internationally.
Compliance & Wellbeing

Maintain full compliance with health and safety regulations, ensuring a secure environment for visitors and staff.
Promote a positive work-life balance and create a workplace culture that values and supports employees.
Person Specification

Essential Experience & Qualifications

Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior management role within the tourism, heritage, or hospitality sectors or equivalent experience such as retail/customer service.
Proven track record of successfully managing visitor attractions or similar facilities.
Experience of reporting to a Board of Trustees, providing strategic, operational, and financial updates and managing up.
Desirable Experience & Qualifications

Degree in Tourism, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Gaelic language skills are desirable, and a willingness to engage with the Gaelic culture. Full support will be provided in developing these skills, from a learners point of view.

Essential Skills & Abilities

Strong, ambitious leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and build a high-performing team.
Excellent financial management skills, including experience in budget oversight.
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
Ability to develop and execute strategic plans effectively.
Proficiency in marketing, promotional activities, and stakeholder engagement.
Commitment to delivering outstanding visitor experiences.

Personal Attributes

Passionate about heritage, tourism, and community engagement.
Visionary and innovative thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced environment.
Dedicated to sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
A collaborative leader who values teamwork and inclusivity.

Benefits
What We Offer

At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we believe in creating a supportive, rewarding, and inspiring workplace. We offer:

Competitive Salary & Benefits – Including a comprehensive benefits package
Fair Work Scotland Accreditation – Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and promoting Fair Work principles.
Personal & Professional Development – Ongoing training, leadership development, and opportunities for career growth.
Work-Life Balance – A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
Recognition & Reward – A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
An Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – A welcoming and dynamic environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.
If you are an inspiring leader with the vision and passion to drive the Calanais Visitor Centre into an exciting new era, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping the future of this extraordinary site and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

To apply, please visit https://careers.calanais.org/

Questions?

No query is too small or not worth asking, so please get in touch with our HR Consultant Claire Smith, Orbit Agency at any time. All informal enquiries are dealt with in the strictest of confidence.

E: claire@orbit.agency

https://calendly.com/orbit-agency/recruitment-confidential-call

A unique opportunity to be part of a pivotal moment in the story of the Stones, to lead and deliver transformational heritage and engagement programmes that will leave a lasting impact on both the site and the community.

ROLE OVERVIEW

About the Calanais Visitor Centre

At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we are committed to preserving, researching, and sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep connection between the site, the community, and the wider world. As we embark on a transformative redevelopment, we are looking for a forward thinking Heritage Manager to join us in shaping the future of this remarkable site.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, operates within a culture of respect, and creates a welcoming environment for all employees.

Role Purpose

The Calanais Visitor Centre is undergoing an ambitious £10.1 million redevelopment and will reopen in early 2026 as a world-class, 5-star visitor attraction and a thriving community hub. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an experienced and visionary heritage leader to shape the future of one of Scotland’s most iconic sites. As the Heritage Manager, you will have the chance to lead and deliver transformational heritage and engagement programmes that will leave a lasting impact on both the site and the community.

Calanais 2025 is a major project that will see the Visitor Centre comprehensively transformed, and each visitor’s experience significantly enhanced. This transformational investment in the future of the Calanais Standing Stones and Visitor Centre has created the opportunity for a dedicated and forward-thinking Heritage Manager to join the team and provides the opportunity to be part of a pivotal moment in the story of the Stones. From structural changes to the fabric of the existing buildings to an exciting new contemporary exhibition space exploring the landscape, people and stones that make Calanais so special, this exciting initiative will safeguard our work with the Standing Stones for years to come.

Requirements
Roles & Responsibilities

Heritage and Charitable Activities

Develop and deliver a community heritage and engagement plan to ensure the Calanais Visitor Centre brings value to the local community.
Implement research programmes with relevant experts to further explore the archaeology of the Calanais area.
Administer the Fund for Heritage, working alongside the board to create the fund rules and promote and implement them across the Outer Hebrides.
Promote diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility through the Heritage for All programme, fostering an environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Ensure that Gaelic culture and language are championed throughout our activities.
External Engagement and Partnerships

Act as an ambassador for the Calanais Visitor Centre, building strong relationships with local communities, businesses, and key stakeholders.
Develop and maintain partnerships with other organisations locally and nationally, including community groups, archaeologists, educational institutions, and heritage organisations.
Represent the Visitor Centre through media, community engagement, and public outreach to enhance the Centre’s profile.
Programme and Site Development

Ensure that the Visitor Centre interpretation site is regarded as world-class, frequently updated, and refreshed.
Deliver a high-quality programme of special events and exhibitions.
Ensure that the Centre remains an asset at the heart of the local community by delivering an engagement programme that meets diverse stakeholder needs.
Strategic Leadership

Provide strategic leadership to ensure that the Centre’s heritage, charitable, and engagement activities are aligned with the overall strategic vision.
Develop long-term strategies to enhance the Centre’s standing as a centre of excellence in heritage interpretation and community engagement.
Work collaboratively with the whole team to ensure the project’s progress and compliance with strategic goals
Provide regular reports to the Board on project progress, challenges, and opportunities.
Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

Demonstrable experience in the field of heritage and charity management, with a track record in community engagement, collaboration with research institutes, and delivering Board papers.
Proven ability to lead and work effectively in multi-functional project teams.
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and inspire confidence.
Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to build a high-performing and motivated team.
Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Strong financial literacy with great attention to detail.
Competent use of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Full driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Desirable Skills and Experience

Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant heritage and/or archaeology discipline.
Understanding of charitable and not-for-profit organisational structures and guidelines.
Gaelic language skills are desirable, and a willingness to engage with the Gaelic culture. Full support will be provided in developing these skills, from a learners point of view.
Personal Attributes

Passionate about heritage, culture, and community engagement.
Visionary and strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
A confident and inspiring communicator who builds trust and motivates others.
A collaborative leader who thrives in a dynamic environment and can balance strategic thinking with operational delivery.
Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced environment.
A collaborative team player who values inclusivity and diversity.
Detail-oriented and committed to delivering high-quality work.

Benefits
What We Offer

At the Calanais Visitor Centre, we believe in creating a supportive, rewarding, and inspiring workplace. We offer:

Competitive Salary & Benefits – Including a comprehensive benefits package.
Fair Work Scotland Accreditation – Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and promoting Fair Work principles.
Personal & Professional Development – Ongoing training, leadership development, and opportunities for career growth.
Work-Life Balance – A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
Recognition & Reward – A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
An Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – A welcoming and dynamic environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.
If you are a passionate and experienced heritage leader with the vision to drive transformational change, we would love to hear from you. This is your chance to shape the future of one of Scotland’s most treasured heritage sites.

To apply, please visit https://careers.calanais.org/

Questions?

No query is too small or not worth asking, so please get in touch with our HR Consultant Claire Smith, Orbit Agency at any time. All informal enquiries are dealt with in the strictest of confidence.

E: claire@orbit.agency

https://calendly.com/orbit-agency/recruitment-confidential-call

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leading the team in reaching its membership targets for the year

Working as part of the overall management team at Culloden, and the wider cluster.

Delivering a high level of customer service and inspiring team members to adhere to high customer service standards

Responsible for reporting data and analysing figures/trends

Undertaking the induction/ongoing training of staff on all front-of-house procedures, customer care and membership.

Developing the progress of the Welcome Supervisor

Full responsibility for Travel Trade bookings to the site and coordinating their visits alongside the Engagement Team, with support of the Ops Manager

Working closely with other managers across the cluster to deliver functions and events throughout the year

Sharing the history of the site and the principles of the NTS with visitors both onsite and via online resources.

Ensuring health and welfare of property staff, volunteers and visitors by adhering to the Trust’s Health ,Safety and Environment policies and guidelines.

Undertaking Duty Management as part of a rota including banking processes

Cash reconciliation including end of day reports and till management

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Enterprise and trading – The business leader for the property, working with the support of the visitor services supervisors and regional management team will plan and deliver innovative product and sales opportunities, integrated with the heritage sites and particular visitor profile for that property / market.

People Management – Enabling the Property teams to optimise the current visitor experience, conservation delivery, and financial performance in line with the properties current Annual Operating Plans. Coaches and mentors’ property teams and staff who directly report to the post to ensure they are fully equipped and motivated to undertake their duties to the required Trust standards, policies, rules, values, delegated authorities and objectives. Succession planning amongst staff and levels of responsibilities and other key posts within the property.

NE Region Structure

Promoting Heritage – Supports and coaches property staff to develop and promote their properties use and potential as a life-long learning resource, in line with the Trust’s ‘Education Principles’ and as part of its charitable aims (Access, Learning and Enjoyment).

Marketing, Membership and Supporter Development – drives business development and marketing of the property to maximise income generation. Working as part of a coordinated regional team and planning agenda, working with Customer and Cause colleagues centrally to optimise the visibility and promotion of the property.

Financial Management, Compliance and Scheme of Delegation – Responsible for budget preparation and day-to-day financial performance. Working closely with the Business Manager to devise effective plans, objectives and solutions and monitor performance (financial, project delivery, initiatives). Taking corrective action required and ensures that the property remains within budget and acts within delegated financial authorities, wider schemes of delegation and adheres to Trust rules, policies and procedures.

Project Management – The Operations Manager maintains an overview of project conception; prioritisation, approvals and delivery within the properties and for ensuring staff within the property operate within NTS Project Management rules. In most cases, capital projects will involve a Project Manager appointed specifically to the project, directed by and supporting the Operations Manager. The Business Manager oversees project processes and resourcing and acts as a supporting role in the management of Projects.

Health, Safety and the Environment – Undertakes responsibility under the Health and Safety Policy including convening and chairing a group Health and Safety forum if applicable. Ensure effective support is achieved from Health and Safety advisors / coordinators assigned to the region and ensures property staff and volunteers adhere to their obligations in line with stated Trust systems, policies, procedures and approaches to ensure the health, safety and environment under the Health and Safety policy and their job description.

Strategic Development of the NTS – Champions and supports the strategic development of the Trust, through participation in national initiatives, projects and working group activity as required and appropriate.

Championing and Advocacy/Stakeholder Engagement – The Operations Manager supports property teams in maintaining positive and productive relations with local communities, tourism, culture, arts and heritage bodies and stakeholders. Support the teams to seek out new productive relations, whether locally or more widely for the benefit of the property. Act as an external networker and advocate for the properties, with membership of appropriate external bodies in the geographical area, or through the regional management team.