Head of Centre & Operations - Perth

Head of Centre & Operations at Willowgate Adventure Centre

Lead Willowgate into Its Next Chapter

Willowgate Adventure Centre is on an exciting journey - and we're looking for a passionate, experienced, and visionary leader to take us to the next level. As our new Head of Centre & Operations, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the centre, driving operational excellence, and putting Willowgate firmly on the map as a Centre of Excellence for paddlesports, land-based adventure, and outdoor education.

This is a senior leadership position for someone who combines strategic thinking with a hands on approach. You'll lead from the front - coaching, inspiring, and developing your team while ensuring the safe, high quality, and unforgettable delivery of outdoor experiences for all.

About Willowgate

Located on the banks of the River Tay in Perth, Willowgate Adventure Centre is a vibrant outdoor activity hub offering paddlesports, archery, bushcraft, land based adventures, and educational programmes. We work with schools, community groups, families, and corporate clients - creating experiences that inspire confidence, connection, and growth through adventure.

As we enter our next phase of development, we're looking for someone with the passion, professionalism, and drive to lead our talented team, grow our reputation, and deliver excellence in every area.

Your Role

Reporting to the CEO, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership for all activity delivery and centre operations. You'll be responsible for health and safety, quality assurance, training, and daily coordination - ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that the customer journey is exceptional.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & People Management
  • Lead, motivate, and mentor a diverse team of instructors, leads, and freelancers.
  • Deliver training, personal development reviews, and continuous professional development (CPD) programmes.
  • Foster a positive, proactive, and supportive team culture.
  • Lead from the front - demonstrating professionalism, enthusiasm, and hands on involvement.
• Operations & Quality Assurance
  • Oversee daily operations, site presentation, cleanliness, and security.
  • Manage all activity areas and equipment, ensuring safety, maintenance, and sustainability.
  • Lead on AALA compliance and ensure all operational procedures are up to industry standards.
  • Maintain robust systems for risk management, incident reporting, and operational efficiency.
• Business Growth & Innovation
  • Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to develop and implement new business ventures.
  • Identify opportunities to expand activity provision, training courses, and partnerships.
  • Collaborate with the sales and marketing team to promote Willowgate's activities and brand.
  • Support the development of income streams and ensure long term financial sustainability.
• Customer Experience
  • Ensure every customer enjoys a safe, high quality, and inspiring experience.
  • Drive continuous improvement through staff observation, feedback, and training.
  • Uphold the Willowgate ethos of inclusion, adventure, and excellence.
• Health, Safety & Compliance
  • Act as Health & Safety Officer, First Aid Lead, Fire Marshal, and Key Holder.
  • Ensure all risk assessments and operating procedures are current and implemented.
  • Lead on staff safety training, incident management, and compliance with relevant legislation.
  • Report RIDDOR incidents and maintain strong links with external regulatory bodies.
• Culture & Team Development
  • Build and maintain a strong, cohesive team culture rooted in positivity, professionalism, and shared purpose.
  • Promote wellbeing, open communication, and personal responsibility across the team.
  • Champion Willowgate's values in every aspect of operations and leadership.

About You

You're a confident and inspiring leader who thrives in the outdoors, equally comfortable running a strategic planning session as you are launching a kayak session or inspecting a climbing system. You understand what it takes to deliver a top quality adventure experience while managing a complex, multi activity centre.

• Proven senior leadership experience in an outdoor centre or adventure operations environment.
• Recognised qualifications in at least four outdoor activity areas (including paddlesports and/or higher level coaching).
• Strong knowledge of health and safety, risk management, and compliance (including AALA).
• Excellent people management, team building, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in business planning, budgeting, and innovation.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and think strategically while acting operationally.
• Commitment to safety, inclusivity, environmental responsibility, and customer service excellence.
• Mountain Leader, Paddle UK / Paddle Scotland Coach, or equivalent high level awards.
• Experience in marketing, new product development, or centre expansion projects.

Why Join Willowgate?

At Willowgate, you'll find more than a job - you'll find a purpose.
Join a passionate, close knit team that's shaping the future of outdoor learning and adventure in Scotland.

We offer:

• 28 days annual leave
• Staff equipment and training discounts
• Funded CPD and access to qualifications
• A stunning riverside location with excellent facilities
• Opportunities to innovate and make a lasting impact

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience, leadership approach, and vision for Willowgate's future to:
email protected

Your cover letter should show how your skills align with Willowgate's mission - and how you will lead the centre into its next chapter as a true Centre of Excellence.

Additional Information

• This post is subject to an enhanced PVG/DBS check.

Lead. Inspire. Deliver Adventure.
Join Willowgate and shape the future of outdoor learning and paddlesport excellence.