Salters Steamers is a friendly, hardworking family company offering a wide range of services to the public, including.
- Boat trips
- Boat hire
- Boat charters
Located on the River Thames and established since 1858, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience and professionalism.
Job Summary
We are seeking a hands‑on and highly organised Operations Manager to join our team, reporting directly to the Managing Director. The role focuses on ensuring the smooth day‑to‑day running of our business, especially during the busy summer season.
Job Title: Operations Manager
Salary: £35,000 per annum
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the business, ensuring efficiency across all services
- Manage schedules, and resource allocation (boats, staff, events)
- Coordinate and support seasonal and permanent staff, including recruitment and training
- Ensure smooth delivery of events such as weddings, private charters, and corporate bookings
- Act as a key point of contact for customer enquiries, ensuring excellent service standards
- Work closely with the Managing Director to improve operational processes and performance
- Maintain high standards of health & safety and compliance
- Troubleshoot operational issues and respond proactively to challenges
- Support business development by identifying opportunities to improve capacity and service delivery
- Daily business operations
- Staff coordination and supervision
- Booking and scheduling management
- Supporting business growth through efficient processes
Candidate Requirements
- Proven experience in an operations, office management, or similar role
- Strong organisational and multitasking skills in a fast‑paced environment
- Confident communication skills, both on the phone and in person
- Experience managing staff or willingness to take on leadership responsibilities
- A proactive, problem‑solving mindset
- Strong customer service focus
- Comfortable using standard office and booking systems
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience within tourism, hospitality, or events
- Familiarity with booking or CRM systems
- Experience coordinating events or managing schedules/logistics
- Ability to analyse processes and implement improvements
- Experience recruiting or managing seasonal teams
- Knowledge of health & safety procedures
- Understanding of pricing, planning, and operational strategy
Additional Job Details
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday
- Flexibility: Required, particularly during peak seasons – Assistance on busy weekend days to be discussed
- Location: Central Oxford (free on‑site parking available)
Benefits
- Company pension
- Free on‑site parking
- Extended Christmas shutdown
- Heavily discounted boat hire
- Seasonal flexibility (earlier winter hours)
- Occasional work‑from‑home during off‑peak periods
- Opportunity to shape and develop operational processes
Who Are We Looking For?
- A proactive and hands‑on Operations Manager who thrives in a small business environment
- Someone willing to take ownership and go beyond their job description
- Strong organisational and leadership skills
- A practical problem‑solver with attention to detail
- Ideally with a background in hospitality, tourism, or customer‑facing operations
How to Apply
Please send your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience to paul@salterssteamers.co.uk.
Join Salters Steamers and help drive the smooth operation of a historic River Thames business!
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