Head of DofE Operations - West Berkshire and Expeditions

Head of DofE Operations - West Berkshire and UK Expeditions

Contract type Part time / Permanent

Closing date 15 Sep 2026 03:00 PM

Location:West Berkshire and UK Expeditions
Salary:£36,000–£42,000

FTEpa pr
Closes: 15/9/26

£36,000–£42,000 FTE, dependent on experience plus the opportunity to earn a performance‑related bonus based on agreed operational, client retention and business growth objectives. This role is based on approximately 35 working weeks per year and is paid pro rata accordingly.

West Berkshire and various expedition locations across the UK

Ridgeline Adventures is a growing and ambitious outdoor education provider, delivering high‑quality Duke of Edinburgh's Award expeditions, residentials and outdoor learning experiences for schools and young people across the UK.

We are seeking an experienced, motivated and highly organised Head of DofE Operations to join our senior leadership team and take responsibility for the operational leadership of our DofE provision.

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious professional who is passionate about outdoor learning and young people's development. Working closely with the Managing Director, you will lead our operational team, oversee programme delivery, manage key client relationships and play a central role in the continued growth and success of the business.

As Head of DofE Operations, you will have overall responsibility for the planning, coordination, quality assurance and development of Ridgeline Adventures' Duke of Edinburgh's Award programmes.

You will line manage both the Expedition Manager and Administrator, oversee our network of freelance instructors, supervisors and assessors, and ensure that all programmes are delivered safely, professionally and in accordance with DofE licensing requirements and company procedures.

You will also act as the operational lead for key client accounts, building strong relationships with schools and youth organisations while ensuring the successful delivery of strategically important expedition programmes.

Working closely with the Managing Director, you will play a central role in driving operational excellence, maintaining outstanding client relationships, supporting business growth and ensuring the highest standards of participant experience.

This is a unique opportunity to join a growing and ambitious outdoor education provider in a senior leadership role with genuine influence over operational delivery, programme quality and business development.

• Lead the day‑to‑day operational management of Ridgeline Adventures' DofE provision.
• Develop, implement and improve operational systems, processes and procedures.
• Ensure the efficient and effective delivery of all DofE expeditions and residential programmes.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities for improvement and growth.
• Support the Managing Director in achieving the company's strategic objectives.

• Line manage and support the Expedition Manager and Office Administrator.
• Oversee the recruitment, deployment and development of freelance instructors, supervisors and assessors.
• Conduct regular supervision, performance reviews and development planning.
• Build a positive, professional and high‑performing team culture.
• Ensure all staff are appropriately trained, supported and compliant with company requirements.
• Oversee the planning, coordination and delivery of all DofE expedition and residential programmes.
• Ensure programmes are delivered safely, professionally and to the highest standards.
• Maintain oversight of programme quality, participant experience and operational effectiveness.
• Support the ongoing development and expansion of DofE provision.

• Act as the senior operational contact for designated schools, trusts and youth organisations.
• Lead the planning and delivery of strategically important client programmes.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through excellent communication and…