Head Groundsperson

We are looking for a passionate and knowledgeable Head Groundsperson to join our team at Hereford Racecourse!

Arena Racing Company does so much more than lead the UK’s largest horse racing group. We have 22 racing venues showcasing horse racing, greyhound racing, golf courses, hotels and events. In short, leisure, entertainment, media production and global distribution are at the heart of what we do, making it an exciting and diverse place to work!

Our success is a team effort which is why we offer great opportunities for growth, development and career progression. After all, it’s our employees that enable us to offer first class service and create an electric atmosphere, all within an industry we love.

We embrace diversity. We develop our people. We care for our visitors. We think about our impact. We are proud of our sport.

• Annual passes to attend any of our 22 venues
• Discounted food & ARC days out
• Cycle to work scheme
• Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 28 days
• Company life assurance scheme
• Discretionary group annual bonus schemes to reward your hard work
• Support with study through our study assistance schemes

As Head Groundsperson you will aim to maintain a quality racing surface all year round as well as maintaining all racing areas and the wider racecourse concourse to the highest possible standard of presentation. You will also assist, when available, with the maintenance of buildings and equipment as well as assisting in the operational aspects of Racedays and other Racecourse Events.

• Lead, motivate and manage permanent and casual ground staff, including rotas, training and health and safety.
• Oversee all aspects of racecourse preparation and turf management, including mowing, irrigation, fertilising, repairs and track maintenance.
• Manage the preparation and maintenance of fences, hurdles, running rails and raceday infrastructure.
• Monitor course conditions and weather forecasts, providing timely going reports and maintaining accurate records.
• Maintain the wider racecourse estate to a high standard, including lawns, gardens, Parade Ring, horse walks, stable yards and car parks.
• Ensure stable hygiene, waste disposal and BHAGI compliance requirements are met.
• Maintain machinery, equipment, irrigation and drainage systems in safe working order.
• Manage groundskeeping materials, supplies, storage areas and expenditure within agreed budgets.
• Ensure risk assessments, health and safety procedures and maintenance records are kept up to date.
• Work closely with the Clerk of the Course and wider management team to support the effective running of the racecourse and estate.

• Experience of leading, supervising and developing a Grounds Team.
• Experience of maintaining and preparing a racing surface or similar sports surface.
• Strong knowledge of grounds maintenance, machinery and equipment.
• The ability to monitor weather conditions and take appropriate preventative and remedial action.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to plan and manage maintenance programmes and budgets.
• A proactive approach to health, safety and environmental management.
• A keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of presentation.

We are on a thrilling journey. So, to join us at our next destination, be part of a winning team and to learn more about our company and this exciting opportunity.

At ARC, we believe that a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace makes us a more relevant, more competitive, and more resilient company. We welcome people…