OPERATIONS MANAGER
Remuneration: £35,100 pro rata (+ pension), paid monthly (£18/hour) Hours: 20 hours per week (including market days). Time off in lieu policy applies. Leave: 25 days per annum plus public holidays pro rata (equivalent to 112 hours or 22.5 days based on 4 days/week, 5 hours/day). Reports to: Managing Director
Role Overview
The Operations Manager plays a key role in ensuring the smooth delivery of The Frome Independent and Frome Weekly Market. This position oversees all aspects of production, logistics, compliance, and stakeholder liaison, ensuring events run safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
Key Responsibilities
Event Operations & Logistics
● Lead planning, procurement, set-up, and management of event logistics within budget.
● Organise and oversee market equipment, repairs, and subcontractor services (cleaning, transport, medical).
● Manage Park & Ride scheme and traffic flow.
● Coordinate market crew bookings, training, and monthly payments with administrator.
● Prepare market day paperwork, briefings, and weather watch communications with administrator.
● Write and review event logs, troubleshoot post-event issues (traffic, litter, illegal traders).
Compliance & Safety
● Ensure compliance with policies and statutory requirements (market licence, road closures).
● Oversee annual Event Management & Safety Plan, including risk assessments with Health & Safety Consultant.
● Maintain robust Health & Safety procedures and liaise with licensing bodies.
● Attend annual Safety Advisory Group meetings with Managing Director.
Leadership & Collaboration
● Provide mentoring and operational support to the Event Management team.
● Lead pre-event production meetings and collaborate with Business Manager and Market Director on planning.
● Negotiate contracts with suppliers and manage relationships with councils, partners, and collaborators.
● Provide cover for the Weekly Market Supervisor when required.
General Duties
● Contribute to the smooth running of The Frome Independent, supporting colleagues during absences or peak workloads.
● Work flexibly, including evenings, weekends, and some Bank Holidays (with notice).
● Uphold sustainability, ethical practices, and responsible use of organisational funds.
● Ensure personal and team compliance with Health & Safety legislation and organisational policies.
Person Specification
Essential Knowledge & Skills
● Strong understanding of events and/or markets.
● Proven knowledge of Health & Safety in event environments.
● Ability to manage staff, projects, and budgets effectively.
● Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and deliver swiftly.
● Self-motivated, decisive, and solutions-focused with a practical approach.
● Strong relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders.
Desirable Knowledge & Skills
● Experience in event planning and traffic management in urban settings.
● Strong written and verbal communication skills, including negotiation.
● Ability to engage confidently at all levels within the community.
Essential Experience
● Demonstrated leadership ability.
● Financial management experience.
● Hands-on Health & Safety management in events/markets.
● Track record of developing and implementing policies, strategies, and reports.
● Experience analysing data and producing clear, actionable insights.
Personal Attributes
● Flexible and adaptable approach to work.
● Commitment to Equal Opportunities and inclusive service delivery.
● Positive outlook and proactive mindset.
● Passion for The Frome Independent and respect for its heritage and future.