Head of Engineering

Here at Chessington World of Adventures we are recruiting for a Head of Engineering to join our Technical Services team!

In this key leadership role, you will be responsible for the safe, reliable, and compliant performance of our ride assets and associated vehicles. You will oversee day-to-day engineering operations, drive continuous improvement, and play a vital role in delivering an exceptional guest experience while leading and developing a high-performing team.

You will provide clear leadership and accountability for the engineering function, ensuring alignment with company values while delivering operational plans and projects. The role includes overseeing all aspects of ride maintenance, from annual and planned programmes through to reactive works, alongside ownership of the maintenance budget. As the escalation point for engineering issues, you will ensure effective resolution of technical challenges and drive performance improvements through Lean and 5S methodologies.

Working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, you will optimise operations, enhance guest throughput, and manage workforce planning in partnership with the collective bargaining unit. You will also ensure full compliance with Health & Safety and engineering standards, while supporting wider business needs as required.

• Significant experience in Planned Preventative Maintenance within an engineering environment, including developing and implementing maintenance strategies.

• Proven experience leading and engaging technical teams to deliver results in a time-critical operation.

• Demonstrated experience managing change and employee relations.

• Minimum HND (or equivalent) in an engineering or maintenance-related discipline.

• Project management experience (PMP, APM, or PRINCE2 preferred).

• Recognised management or leadership qualification, or equivalent experience.

• Energetic, dynamic, and motivational leader with the ability to drive performance and get the best from large teams.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to a range of audiences using data and relevant software tools.

• Working knowledge of the ADIPS scheme and HSE guidance (HSG175) is desirable.

• Strong understanding of health and safety legislation, with experience implementing procedures in safety-critical environments.

• Highly analytical and numerate, with the ability to develop and interpret management information; strong IT skills, including spreadsheets.

• Experience managing budgets, forecasting resources and materials, and maintaining cost control.