General Manager/ Director of Operations - Brands and Entertainment
Salary DOE
ASAP Start
Handle are thrilled to be partnering with an established and highly regarded organisation within the brands and entertainment space which is seeking an experienced General Manager to provide strategic, operational, and commercial leadership across a unique, start up business.
This is a senior executive appointment requiring a confident and credible leader with a proven track record of managing complexity, driving organisational performance, and leading high-performing teams. The successful candidate will work closely with senior stakeholders to deliver the organisation's long-term vision while ensuring operational excellence, financial sustainability, and strong governance.
The Role
The General Manager will have overall responsibility for strategy delivery, operational management, financial oversight, people leadership, and external relationships. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on oversight across all areas of the organisation and plays a key role in shaping future direction.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic leadership, translating long-term vision into effective business and operational plans
Lead and coordinate the senior management team, setting priorities and ensuring delivery across all departments
Oversee day-to-day operations, driving efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement
Hold overall responsibility for organisational performance, risk management, and governance
Lead financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial controls in partnership with the Head of Finance
Build and maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders, partners, and suppliers
Oversee people management, including recruitment, performance, development, and organisational culture
Work closely with directors to support programming, planning, and delivery
Oversee sales, marketing, fundraising, and customer experience to ensure income targets are achieved
Report to the Board, providing clear performance updates, strategic insight, and recommendations
Candidate Profile
Minimum of 8 years' senior management experience, ideally at General Manager or executive level
Demonstrated success in strategic planning, business development, and operational leadership
Strong financial, commercial, and analytical capability
Experience managing budgets, forecasts, and organisational risk
Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Sound judgement, strong decision-making ability, and a solutions-focused approach
This is a rare leadership opportunity with genuine scope to shape an organisation's future and drive its continued growth and development. The role offers significant influence, responsibility, and the chance to make a lasting impact. If you would like to apply or find out more about the role please email your CV to hannah.keighley@handle.co.uk
Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
