Operations Manager

Salters Steamers is a friendly, hardworking family company offering a wide range of services to the public, including:

• Boat trips
• Boat hire

Located on the River Thames and established since 1858, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience and professionalism.

We are seeking a hands‑on and highly organised Operations Manager to join our team, reporting directly to the Managing Director. This is a key role focused on ensuring the smooth day‑to‑day running of our business, particularly during the busy summer season.

The successful candidate will take ownership of operational planning and delivery, including:

• Daily business operations
• Staff coordination and supervision
• Booking and scheduling management
• Supporting business growth through efficient processes

This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in a well‑established tourism and hospitality business, with scope to shape and improve operational systems.

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

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
• Comfortable using standard office and booking systems
• 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

• A professional and friendly telephone manner
• The ability to remain calm and efficient under pressure

You will be responsible for:

• Handling calls, emails, and booking enquiries
• Processing bookings and coordinating schedules
• Supporting the smooth day‑to‑day running of the business

A sense of humour and team spirit are essential!

Additional Information

• 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)
• 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

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