The Role:
Passionate about managing our precious inland waterways for public access, navigation and conservation? We are looking for a well organised leader for our team managing the operations of the Basingstoke Canal.
The 32-mile-long Basingstoke Canal is a largely tree lined and tranquil navigable waterway providing an important recreational resource both on the towpath and on the water. Crossing through Hampshire and Surrey, it is a designated SSSI. With 29 Locks and numerous bridges, structures and embankments, the 230-year-old canal demands constant attention.
The Canal is managed by a local authority partnership known as the Basingstoke Canal Authority (BCA) who carry out day to day operations for the owners; Surrey and Hampshire County Councils.
The Canal Manager (Operations) is a key role in planning and ensuring safe and effective operation of the Canal and will be responsible for the operational work programmes of the BCA. The postholder will lead and develop the operational staff of the BCA and be instrumental in successful engagement with volunteers and voluntary organisations – particularly the Basingstoke Canal Society and Inland Waterways Association. The postholder will also be the lead person for biodiversity on the Canal ensuring the owner’s obligations to the SSSI are delivered, whilst balancing competing recreational and safety needs.
Things we will need you to have:
- A degree (or equivalent) in countryside or environmental management, ecology, rural or urban estate management or other related environmental discipline.
- You will be required to travel to various locations within Hampshire and Surrey (or other local authority areas), and it is essential that you have a current drivers’ licence and access to a reliable vehicle on a regular basis.
We will be looking for you to show:
Extensive full time site management experience, including more in depth knowledge of at least two of the following areas: public access, biodiversity/nature conservation, heritage, or waterway management.
- A proven track record of managing, motivating and developing a team.
- A thorough knowledge of Health & Safety and how to apply it in practice.
- Excellent communication skills with a wide range of stakeholders, especially working with partnerships or volunteers.
- Experience of budget management and to be completely IT literate with standard office software.
The post is based at the Basingstoke Canal Visitor Centre at Mytchett, near Camberley, Surrey but the post holder is expected to work both in the office and at home in a flexible manner. Travel is expected around the Canal site and to other sites or offices in Surrey and Hampshire as required.
The postholder will generally work office hours, but on occasion will be required to work evenings or weekends and be available to support on-duty staff in the case of an emergency.
What we can offer you:
We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace, where talent is truly recognised and developed. We have created an environment that you can look forward to being a part of and where you are empowered to be your best and believe in creating a workplace built on teamwork where people can grow and develop in their roles.
To find out more about what we can offer you in return, please see our Benefits Package.
Additional Information:
Canal Manager - Operations - Job Description and Person Specification
Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:
James Taylor, Strategic Manager – Basingstoke Canal on 0370 779 5594.
Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.
In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.
We are a Disability Confident Employer – committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.
Apply here.
Closing date: 18 March 2024.
Interview date: Week commencing 1 April 2024.
