Estate Director/Manager/Factor
West Highlands and Islands, Scotland
Competitive Salary + Accommodation
Overview
Exclusively retained by our client, a prestigious 30,000-acre estate in the West Highland and Islands Region of Scotland, we seek an Estate Director/Manager/Factor to oversee all operations. This estate offers luxury hospitality, catering to parties of up to 20 guests in the main lodge, and provides a unique array of other accommodation facilities and supporting outdoor activities, including fishing, stalking, sea boat trips, wildlife watching, and more. The role involves leadership of a high-season team of 30 people and ensuring the smooth running and financial success of the estate.
Key Responsibilities of the Incumbent
General Estate Management:
* Take full responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the estate, ensuring smooth coordination across all functions.
* Oversee guest services and ensure the highest levels of hospitality and guest satisfaction.
* Liaise with the owner and act as his representative to all guests.
Leadership & Human Resources:
* Lead and manage a team of over 30 seasonal staff, including recruitment, training, performance management, and staff development.
* Ensure all HR policies and procedures are adhered to, fostering a positive and inclusive working environment.
Guest Experience & Hospitality:
* Personally engage with guests, ensuring their needs are met, and their experience is exceptional.
* Oversee all aspects of accommodation, including the 12-bedroom house, cottages, and pods, ensuring they are maintained and presented to the highest standards.
Sporting Activities :
* Coordinate all sporting and outdoor activities, including fishing, stalking and other shooting activities, sea boat trips, and wildlife watching.
* Ensure all activities are run safely, legally, and in line with guest expectations.
Health & Safety Compliance:
* Ensure that all health and safety regulations are fully adhered to across the estate.
* Regularly assess risks and implement safety protocols across all operations, including guest activities, accommodation, and facilities.
Food and Hygiene Safety :
* Ensure all food is prepared, stored, and served in accordance with food safety standards.
* Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of food preparation areas, equipment, and utensils.
* Enforce best hygiene practices across all food outlets.
* Ensure proper waste disposal and cleaning schedules are followed.
Commercial & Financial Management :
* Oversee the financial performance of the estate, ensuring that all operations are commercially viable and profitable.
* Work with the finance team to set and manage budgets, control costs, and maximise revenue opportunities.
Facilities & Building Management :
* Manage the maintenance and upkeep of all estate buildings and facilities, ensuring they remain in top condition.
* Oversee the estate’s hydro plant, farm shop, restaurant, and hatchery, ensuring all facilities are operational and meet legal and safety standards.
Legal & Compliance Responsibilities :
* Ensure the estate is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including land management, hospitality, sporting, and environmental regulations.
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of any changes in legislation affecting the estate’s operations.
Requirements of the Person:
* The instinct, experience, gravitas, and persona to manage a large, high-end estate and hospitality operation.
* Strong leadership and team management skills, with a hands-on approach to operations.
* Excellent guest-facing skills with a focus on delivering exceptional service.
* Strong understanding of commercial, financial, and budget management.
* Knowledge of rural estate activities such as fishing, stalking, and wildlife management.
* Experience in facilities and building management, including health and safety compliance.
* Familiarity with legal responsibilities related to estate management, land use, and hospitality.
Desirable Attributes:
* Knowledge of the Highland region, local wildlife, and environmental conservation.
* Experience with renewable energy operations (e.g., hydroelectric plants).
* Strong organisational and multitasking skills.
This is a unique opportunity to take full responsibility for managing a significant Highland estate, offering a blend of luxury hospitality, outdoor activities, and environmental stewardship.
Initial expressions of interest must take the form of an up-to-date CV and a brief, informal, covering e-mail expanding on why the position is of interest.