Job Description

Company Overview

"Ripon Race Company Ltd is a distinguished horse racing establishment committed to excellence in the sport and entertainment industry. We uphold tradition while fostering innovation to deliver memorable experiences for our visitors and stakeholders."

Summary

"We are seeking a Deputy Head Grounds person to support our team at Ripon Race Company Ltd. This role is vital in ensuring smooth operations and effective communication within the company. This Role will Progress to Head Grounds person position in time with mentoring from the current Head Groundsman. The position is based in Ripon North Yorkshire, and comes with on-site accommodation."

Responsibilities

1. Grounds Maintenance

Assist in the preparation and maintenance of all surfaces, meeting BHA expectations. Deputise for the Head Groundsmen in their absence, assuming responsibility for the management of grounds preparation and operational decision-making. Assist in the facilities management of the site, including security and monitoring. Support in the preparation and set-up for all race meetings, ensuring grounds are ready for racing at the earliest opportunity following inclement weather. Assist with setup of buildings and facilities on race meetings. Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of machinery, tools, and equipment to ensure they are in safe working condition and compliant with best practice. Ensure all work complies with BHAGI regulations for track preparation and liaise with the BHA Inspectors and STRI as appropriate. Identify and report opportunities for continuous improvement in grounds maintenance processes and facilities. Operate ground machinery safely and in accordance with manufacturer and Company procedures.

2. People Management & Team Support

Support the Head Groundsmen in leading and supervising the grounds team, providing direction, motivation, and guidance, ensuring standards are maintained and Health & Safety procedures are followed. Assist with staff training and development, including casual groundstaff. Take an active role in team meetings and contribute ideas for improvement. Support a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment, aligned with the Companies values and culture. Act as a mentor for junior/trainee/casual groundstaff where required. Manage schedules, appointments, and correspondence for senior staff. Assist coordinating meetings and work schedules. Assist with event planning and logistics related to horse racing and events. Maintain organised records and files. Support daily operational efficiency. Liaise with internal teams and external partners to facilitate communication. Handle confidential information with discretion. Contribute to a positive and professional work environment.

3. Health, Safety, and Compliance

Ensure Health & Safety is prioritised in all operations, with appropriate risk assessments completed and safe systems of work maintained. Comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and related regulations. Ensure safe handling and use of machinery, chemicals, and equipment, reporting any defects or hazards immediately. Promote a culture of safe working practices throughout the grounds team.

4. Professional Development & Continuous Improvement

Support the Head Grounds Man in identifying and implementing a programme of continuing professional development (CPD) for the grounds team. Take personal responsibility for maintaining and developing professional skills and technical knowledge. Keep up to date with best practices, technological advances, and BHAGI guidelines relating to grounds management.

5. Person Specification:

Experience in racecourse or sports turf groundskeeping, ideally at a racecourse venue. Able to support or deputise for a Grounds Manager and work confidently within a small and medium sized team. Skilled in preparing and maintaining racecourse turf, car parks and woodlands with competent machinery use. Good understanding of Health & Safety, BHAGI standards, and turf management. Strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills, IT-MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)and basic mechanical skills are a bonus. NVQ Level 2 in Sports Turf (or equivalent), with higher qualifications and PA1/PA6 preferred. Reliable, proactive, detail-focused, and flexible with working hours during the season. Full UK driving licence. Live on-site to aid security and monitoring(Detached 3-bedroom property). Proven experience as a Deputy Head Grounds person. Excellent organizational and time-management skills. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively. Discretion and confidentiality are essential. Team Management- Full Time Staff/Race Casuals/Contractors Knowledge of horse racing or sports event management is a plus. Prepared to be mentored into Head Grounds persons position over the next couple of seasons.
If you thrive in dynamic environments and are eager to contribute to the exciting world of horse racing, we invite you to bring your expertise to Ripon Race Company Ltd.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 24,420.00-32,324.40 per year

Benefits:

Employee mentoring programme On-site parking
Work Location: In person