Summary
**Important notice** In line with our redeployment policy, we’ll prioritise applications from employees who are under formal notice of redundancy.
This part time role is for a fixed term ending 11 January 2026, to support and deliver the Christmas at Dunham Massey event at NT Dunham Massey, working closely with our commercial partners. Over the period you will work an average of 3 to 4 days per week, but working days and hours will vary during the pre-event and event periods.
This role is based on annualised hours, where the amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in equal instalments over the contract.
During the event it is likely that you will work up to 4 shifts of up to 8.5 hours each per week, and you’ll be required to work a proportion of the 43 event dates as one of the two/three National Trust Duty Managers.
Ideally looking for an immediate start.
What it's like to work here
Dunham Massey is a 3,000-acre estate situated approximately 10 miles south of central Manchester and three miles south of Altrincham. Roger Grey, 10th Earl of Stamford, gave it to the National Trust in 1976 and today it attracts over 500,000 visitors a year.
Now a successfully established annual tradition, Christmas at Dunham Massey, delivered in partnership with RGL Sony, gives visitors the opportunity to see the gardens and buildings all aglow for a magical, after-dark experience. As Duty Manager you’ll be working closely with the property team, production company, promoter, contractors and suppliers to ensure that this year’s event builds on previous successes.
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What you'll be doing
You’ll have responsibility for the day-to-day venue operational management of the event, working with property colleagues, and event partners, you will ensure that Dunham’s buildings and landscape receive the appropriate protection, and maximise opportunities to communicate the core purpose and work of the National Trust to the tens of thousands of visitors. You’ll have operational line management responsibility for NT staff & volunteers on event nights, and local responsibility for the consistent delivery of a great visitor experience for our visitors
Who we're looking for
Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:
- experience working in settings such as historic properties, visitor attractions, or similar environments.
- previous experience in supervising, coaching, or training staff and/or volunteers.
- proven ability to manage operational and project budgets, including income generation and cost control.
- understanding of compliance requirements and experience in assessing and managing risks, including Health & Safety.
- strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups including staff, volunteers, visitors, and stakeholders.
Additional criteria for all other applicants. We'd love to hear from you if you’re:
- experienced in the practical aspects of managing a house and garden site
- proactive and focused on solutions, mindful of the operational needs of a site
- highly organised and skilled at planning, with a good eye for detail
- adept at working to multiple deadlines and managing your own workload
- a skilled communicator who can forge strong relationships, both externally and internally
- a problem-solver, able to work on your own initiative.
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- EV car lease scheme
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.