Job Specification Job Title: Location: Sports Development Officer Milton Keynes or Hertsmere & Three Rivers Job Number: Responsible To: Responsible For: Regional Manager All staff employed at the Centre(s) General Description 1. Demonstrate in an effective way the core competencies associated with the level of this post to deliver the requirements of the position. 2. Responsible to the Facility Manager(s) for the development of and compliance to expected operational and management standards and Hertsmere Leisure s mission statement and values. 3. Responsible for the development, implementation and integration of a diverse Sports Development Programme within the Integrated Management Systems of Hertsmere Leisure including Quest and Quest Sport Development. 4. To ensure that the aims and objectives set out within the strategies for sport, health and physical activity (both local and national) are being delivered to the communities within which each facility operates in compliance with the contract specification. 5. To adopt, promote and deliver all legislative requirements and good practice relating to equality and diversity in employment and service offering Mission Statement Hertsmere Leisure will strive to be the premier provider of leisure and children s services for the communities it serves, renowned for its delivery of high quality services and commitment to health and social welfare issues. Values I mprove continuously in everything we do N urture the unique worth and contribution of every individual S eek to operate in a more economic, efficient and effective way P romote an honest and open culture supported by active communication I mprove the quality of life, well being and health of our communities R ecognise the importance of the customer in everything we do E ncourage people to fulfil their potential. January 2016 Page 1 of 8
Specific Duties Customer Service 1. To be responsible for the development and delivery of a sustained sport and physical activity programme in the immediate communities serviced by Hertsmere Leisure operated facilities within an Integrated Management including ISO 14001, Quest and Investors in People. 2. Maintain good relationships with the public, and all relevant external bodies. Demonstrate an understanding of cultural differences and working with diverse communities, including the challenges this may pose. 3. Ensure a thorough understanding of, and response to, the needs of users, and partner organisations. 4. Be responsible for the programming, planning, organisation and smooth running of events, activities and functions both in the centres and the community in line with the needs of the customers, liaising with others as appropriate. 5. Develop and implement strategies, action plans and a performance management system to address all customer needs. Business Objectives and Achievement of Results 1. With the assistance of the Centre Managers, develop and manage the relevant annual budgets and the preparation of longer-term budgetary forecasts for all sports development activities. 2. Through effective planning, implementation and monitoring ensure the successful operational performance of all relevant services within the community in line with objectives, standards and targets as laid down within the Sports Development / Service Delivery Plans and Hertsmere Leisure s Business Plan. 3. To develop and deliver specific sport plans linked to the overarching Sports Development Plan for Hertsmere Leisure. 4. To monitor, record, evaluate and report the outputs of project, in line with guidance from Sport England and the contract specification with Milton Keynes Council, Hertsmere Borough Council and Three Rivers District Council. 5. Ensure monitoring and evaluation of partner projects in line with project plans and bids and in accordance with partners requirements. Work to strict deadlines as set our by partner agencies for monitoring and evaluation data returns. 6. To implement change and business development opportunities, seeking authority where necessary, to ensure the ongoing success of the relevant Community development programme. 7. Promote the values, and, where appropriate, implement actions in recognition of the organisation s charitable status and its requirements contained in its memorandum and articles of association. January 2016 Page 2 of 8
8. Access external funding to ensure the longevity of all projects and to support the development of community leisure provision within Milton Keynes, Hertsmere and Three Rivers. Teamwork 1. Be a member of relevant committees ensuring effective and positive use of time. 2. Contribute both specifically and generally to the overall development of the organisation through the sharing of good practice and leading on any agreed corporate issue. 3. To support each Council s Sports Development team on Community Sports Development matters, disseminating good practice and addressing issues of inequality in participation 4. Ensure, through adoption of relevant good practices, the development of staff and services through effective teamwork. 5. To positively embrace an ethos of equality and diversity in employment and service provision 6. Adhere to Hertsmere Leisure s positive attendance at work culture. Communication 1. To maintain an active and effective dialogue with customers, client council, local communities, clubs, other agencies and working partners. 2. Be responsible for implementing the promotion and publicity of Hertsmere Leisure s activities in co-operation and consultation with others as appropriate and particularly response and action to Customer Comments and feedback. 3. To develop and maintain an appropriate database of information relating to the target populations, sports-related activity patterns and non-user data 4. To effectively use all forms of communication to support the responsibilities of the position. 5. Participate in centre related meetings with associated partners as required. 6. To represent Hertsmere Leisure at various client and partner meetings, including presenting updates on Sorts Development and associated pans. Health and Safety 1. Ensure full compliance with all relevant legislation and best practice relating to health and safety issues. 2. Ensure all staff are fully aware of their responsibilities and have the necessary training to undertake their respective duties. January 2016 Page 3 of 8
3. Liaise with external advisors and Hertsmere Leisure s Health and Safety Support Manager as and when required. 4. Ensure all recruitment is in line with corporate policies whilst also meeting NGB and/or OFSTED recommendations for Sports based staff. Leadership and Developing Others 1. Through the consistent implementation of good management practices, co-ordinate and oversee the work of staff working within Sports Development and the local communities. 2. Be responsible for the recruitment, induction, training, development, and disciplining of relevant staff (where appropriate) assessing performance against key result areas as determined. 3. Undertake annual appraisals and job chats as necessary 4. Develop and nurture a culture that encourages staff to deliver on the business and charitable need of the organisation in line with its mission and values. 5. Ensure all staff receive opportunities for continuous professional development in compliance with relevant policies and budgets. 6. Through effective leadership, lead by example and set appropriate and required standards of behaviour. Problem Solving 1. Deal effectively with issues arising from customers, staff, host authority and partners in a timely and appropriate way seeking advice and support as necessary. Performance Criteria The performance criteria identified below are those considered critical to the success of the post of Sports Development Officer. The performance criteria will be reviewed annually as part of the appraisal process and the individual s performance evaluated. 1. Deliver all elements of the contract specification and budget relating to all elements of sports development, and as a minimum achieving the approved budget for individual funding targets. 2. Monitor Sports Development financial performance and advise the Centre Managers of significant changes and recommend what action is to be taken to correct any short fall. 3. Manage staff in order to provide a high quality service to members, guests and visitors in line with company policies and procedures and within approved budget. This will include operating a staff appraisal and development plan 4. Ensure the contract specification, Policies and decisions of Hertsmere Leisure and the leisure contract are implemented. Monitor performance undertaking with the Centre Managers with an audit of the programmes activities monthly. January 2016 Page 4 of 8
5. In conjunction with the sales and marketing team develop and implement marketing and promotional campaigns to maximise the use of facilities, through the adoption of effective promotion and PR, developing awareness and usage of the facilities. 6. Monitor performance of the sports development programmes to maximise the profitable operation balanced with social inclusion, maintaining high standard of customer service and compliance with all licensing and environmental health requirements 7. Ensure high standards of customer service throughout the Centres and continuous improvement and maintenance of Quest and Quest Sport Development. Special Features The ability to be flexible, given the multi-faceted nature of the job, to be able to cope effectively with a highly pressurised work schedule and demanding budget targets. Flexible in working arrangements/hours including unsocial hours to suit demands of the position and delivery of the contract obligations of Hertsmere Leisure. Excellent communication skills with the ability to tailor communication in order to suit the situation, including formal meetings, customer liaison and staff interaction. Personal Specification for Sports Development Officer Skills, Knowledge and Experience Essential: Essential criteria are critical to the post and must be obtained within 6 months employment, or a training plan agreed prior to appointment. Once achieved, the qualifications will be maintained throughout employment with Hertsmere Leisure. Failure to sustain job specific criteria will result in appropriate action. 1. One year s experience in a leisure/sport environment, ideally within a Sport Development role. 2. Demonstrate an understanding of a wide range of sporting structures and / or pathways e.g. coach / player / performance pathways, sports development continuum. 3. Evidence of leading / delivering an exercise referral scheme or similar funded project in partnership with the local health authority, and evidence of working in partnership with voluntary, statutory and private sectors of the community. 4. Sports coaching or sports leadership qualification. 5. Able to lead, direct and motivate a team of staff. 6. Possession of excellent communication skills both written and oral. January 2016 Page 5 of 8
7. Able to demonstrate sound business and entrepreneurial skills allied with financial acumen and a creative approach to activity programming. 8. Commitment to a quality customer-led service and awareness of health and safety legislation. 9. Be prepared to work as required in the interest of the business. 10. Hold a current driving licence and have access to appropriate transport to work across a number of facilities. Desirable: 1. A Recreation Management Qualification such as ISPAL/ISRM Diploma, Degree or equivalent. 2. Experience working in a Health and Fitness Environment with a Level 2 Fitness Qualifications or similar. 3. Level 2 ASA Swimming Teacher Qualification or equivalent. 4. Current First Aid at Work Certificate Knowledge and experience of the requirements of quality-assured systems including Quest. Complexity and Creativity 1. The work includes finding solutions to problems of an operational nature, including systems, personnel and activity programmes and managing the interface with the public. 2. The postholder will be expected to apply creative thinking to balance financial inputs and results - failure to do so may result in loss of revenue and/or loss of clients in a high profile environment. 3. There will be a need to ascertain and interpret customer demands and to translate those into a customer-led programme. Judgements and Decisions 1. In conjunction with the Centre Managers, setting of business and financial targets for the Sport Development Programme 2. Responsible for the delivery of community engagement programme within the local community ensuring the health and safety of public and staff. Failure of which could have serious impact upon standing of Hertsmere Leisure. Contacts: Internal 30% External 70% Method: Face to face, by telephone or in writing. The Sports Development Coordinator will be required to attend or convene meetings/take training sessions/appraisals of January 2016 Page 6 of 8
Internal: Operations Director, Finance Director Contract Manager Centre Management Teams and Centre Staff External: Client Officers: Customers: Hertsmere Leisure relevant staff relating to own experience and qualifications. Regular liaison to meet agreed performance criteria, coordinating Centre requirements in all aspects of health and safety, quality and financial performance. Close monitoring, planning and discussion of operational, human resource requirements, policy matters and training. Ensure clear understanding of tasks, hours of work and arrange staff meetings. Daily liaison, co-ordinating centre requirements, and ensuring clear understanding and completion of tasks. Deal with telephone, written and personal enquiries, arrange and attend meetings with client as required by contract Deal with telephone, written and personal enquiries and complaints as outlined in QMS. Suppliers/Contractors: Liaise with contractors/visitors to site, ensuring they are signed in correctly. Meet with relevant external bodies, i.e. Insurers, HSE, Environmental health as necessary. January 2016 Page 7 of 8
Other Factors affecting the post of Sports Development Officer 1. Hours of Work: 39 hours per week, as and when required including some evening and weekend work. 2. Grade: 8 3. Salary: 21,000-24,000 4. Notice Period: As detailed in the Statement of Particulars 5. Holiday Entitlement: Annual Leave entitlement is based on service and is as for full time employees (39 hours per week), working a five day week and includes the 8 bank holidays at present legislated for each calendar year. All staff are required to allocate Christmas Day as part of their annual leave entitlement, but other days may become mandatory if their centre is closed for business for operational reasons. Annual leave entitlement at present is: On commencement with HL 29 days After 1 year continuous service with HL 30 days After 2 years continuous service with HL 31 days After 3 years continuous service with HL 32 days After 4 years continuous service with HL 33 days After 5 years continuous service with HL 34 days After 10 years continuous service with HL 36 days After 15 years continuous service with HL 38 days After 20 years continuous service with HL 39 days. 6. Pensions choice: Options are: Workplace Pensions Reform requires Hertsmere Leisure to automatically enrol all employees who are aged between 22 and State Pension age, and earning above 10,000 a year into their Qualifying Workplace Pension Scheme. Hertsmere Leisure s Qualifying Workplace Pension Scheme is a Group Stakeholder Pension Scheme provided by Friends Life. Employees who qualify for automatic enrolment will be joined into the Scheme on completion of one month s service. Other staff may join voluntarily at any time. Employees are required to contribute 1% of their Qualifying Earnings (earnings between 5,772 and 41,865 per annum) and Hertsmere Leisure will also contribute 1% of Qualifying Earnings on their behalf. Employees can elect to opt out of the Scheme at any time and if they do so within 30 days of joining, any contribution deducted from salary will be refunded. Further information regarding the Hertsmere Leisure Qualifying Workplace Pension Scheme will be forwarded to you within one month of joining service. (ii) The purchase of a personal pension. 7. Location: Relevant Centre, however the postholder will be expected to work in any facility managed by Hertsmere Leisure 8. The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974: This post is exempt from The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 therefore the post holder will be subject to a DBS check 9. Other Duties: The other duties shown are those currently operative, but the post holder may be required to undertake any other duties reasonable and compatible with his/her grading, competence and qualification 10. Leisure Benefits: Free use of leisure facilities is available to the post holder, subject to booking conditions. Please contact your Line Manager for details January 2016 Page 8 of 8