Centre manager jobs

This is more than a management role—it’s an opportunity to create a vibrant ecosystem for young entrepreneurs.

You’ll take ownership of the centre, embedding it in the local community while supporting young people (18–30) to start and grow their businesses. From building partnerships to mentoring founders, you’ll be at the heart of real social impact.

We’re looking for a self-starter who thrives on responsibility, can work independently, and brings energy, ideas and leadership to everything they do.

Growing Enterprise in the Community

• Build strong partnerships with local organisations and stakeholders
• Create a collaborative network that champions youth enterprise
• Raise awareness and position the hub as a go-to space for start-ups

Recruiting & Supporting Clients

• Lead outreach and recruit aspiring entrepreneurs
• Provide pre-start advice and guide business planning
• Manage applications, referrals and waiting lists

Delivering Business Support

• Offer ongoing mentoring and practical business advice
• Connect clients with local businesses, professionals and mentors
• Support employability and enterprise development pathways

Running the Hub

• Oversee day-to-day operations and facilities
• Host tours, meetings and events
• Ensure a welcoming, professional and inspiring environment

Reporting & Performance

• Monitor KPIs including occupancy and business success rates
• Maintain accurate records and reporting for trustees
• Manage rent processes and contribute to financial sustainability

Budget & Compliance

• Manage budgets and support fundraising activity
• Ensure Health & Safety standards are implemented and upheld

Launch It Kent is an independent charity based in Sheerness Kent. The charity is supported through a social franchise by Launch It who have been operating for over 25 years and manage 7 enterprise centres across the UK.

Are you excited by the latest innovations on the market to help people overcome barriers to independence?  Are you skilled at seeking out the best deals to pass on to the people who need them most?  Do you have the ability to put people at ease and feel supported?  Are you highly organised and dynamic?  If so, we need you!

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our team as a Resource Centre Manager.  This is a fantastic opportunity for a Dispensing Optician, Sensory Equipment Specialist, or experienced practitioner with service management skills to lead and develop a well-established Resource Centre.

You will play a central role in supporting people who are blind, partially sighted, Deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind to access assistive equipment and technology that maintains independence and improves quality of life.

The role includes leading the day-to-day running of the Resource Centre, ensuring a high-quality, person-centred service, and working collaboratively across the organisation. There is also scope to shape and grow the service, including developing new income opportunities and resources.  You will be line managing a small team of staff and volunteers. 

We are looking for someone with experience in sensory support, strong organisational and people management skills, and confidence in advising on equipment and practical solutions. You will be proactive, flexible and committed to improving outcomes for the people we support.

This is primarily an office-based role with some travel across Surrey.

We can offer you:

· A generous annual leave allowance (full time annual leave entitlement is 28 days per annum, plus bank holidays)

· Pension contributions 6% matched with the Pensions Trust

· Access to an Employee Assistance Programme

· Investment in your development

· Annual flu vaccinations and an eye test every two years with a contribution towards work related glasses

· A vibrant and friendly team! 

Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey has been established for over 100 years.  We enable and empower people who are blind, partially sighted, Deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind to overcome barriers and to be as independent as possible.

An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service will be required, which we can arrange.

Closing Date:  Please apply by 9.00 am on Monday 18th May using our application form  

Interview dates: Shortlisted applicants will be offered an interview on Thursday 28th May.