Safety and Facilities Manager / Safety Officer

Job Title: Safety and Facilities Manager / Safety Officer
Location: Crawley Town Football Club
Job Type: Part-time (20 hrs per week plus matchdays)
Department: Operations
Reports To: General Manager

Job Overview:

Crawley Town Football Club is looking for a highly organised and experienced individual to take on the role of Safety and Facilities Manager & Safety Officer. This essential position ensures the safety and security of all staff, spectators, and assets within the stadium, as well as overseeing crowd management during matchdays. The successful candidate will lead safety operations, manage facility maintenance, and implement crowd control protocols at events hosted at the stadium.

Key Details:

• Location: Broadfield Stadium

• Working Hours:  9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, plus all home matchdays (including some Sundays).

• Flexibility: The role may require additional hours depending on events and operational needs – work from home is available. 

Core Duties:

Safety and Compliance Management:

• Ensure compliance with all necessary safety regulations, including the Stadium Safety Certificate, Health and Safety at Work legislation, Fire Safety Legislation, and Safety at Sports Grounds legislation, and others. 

• Manage the Safety and Security Operations Manual and oversee stadium operations, including plant certification and maintenance.

Crowd Safety:

• Develop and implement crowd management plans, ensuring smooth entry and exit procedures while minimising potential risks.

• Work closely with event organisers, security teams, medical staff, local authorities, law enforcement, and the SGSA to maintain safety and security at events.

• Monitor crowd behaviour and act swiftly to address any disturbances or safety issues.

• Collaborate with internal departments (operations, security, event management) to ensure the smooth coordination and execution of all matchday activities.

• Conduct regular risk assessments for events and stadium activities, implementing control measures as needed (e.g., crowd barriers, evacuation protocols, security measures).

• Book and manage resources for matchdays and other events where necessary, including staff and equipment.

• Manage the crowd safety budget.

Security Management:

• Oversee the daily security operations within the stadium, liaising with security contractors to implement safety measures.

• Respond as part of a team to alarm callouts when necessary.

• Ensure the stadium is secure on a day-to-day basis, addressing any security concerns promptly.

Facilities Management:

• Oversee the coordination of the maintenance and upkeep of stadium facilities, working with staff, contractors, and suppliers to ensure all areas (e.g., seating, restrooms, hospitality, car parks) are well-maintained and compliant.

• Collaborate with contractors for timely repairs and maintenance.

• Manage facility improvement projects, ensuring they stay within budget while meeting required standards.

• Ensure contractors and suppliers comply with relevant legislation and the Club’s health, safety, and security policies.

• Conduct regular inspections of the stadium premises to assess maintenance needs.

• Ensure the facilities budget is met. 

Health and Safety:

• Continuously review and update health, safety, and security policies and procedures.

• Oversee health and safety training to foster a positive safety culture throughout the organisation.

• Provide expert advice and guidance on health, safety, and security matters.

• Record and investigate accidents and near misses, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent recurrence.

• Assist with the implementation of new or revised legislation and guidelines.

• Conduct audits to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and maintain a safe working environment.

• Carry out risk assessments and develop safe working procedures for club activities.

• Compile safety reports and provide recommendations for improvements.

• Act as the primary contact for safety-related inquiries, ensuring clear communication with stakeholders.

Skills and Experience:

• Proven ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

Essential Qualifications: 

• NVQ Level 4 in Spectator Safety Management (or equivalent).

• High level of initiative and self-motivation, with the ability to work independently.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work effectively under pressure.

• Excellent time management and organisational skills.

• Flexible and resilient, with a proactive attitude.

• Strong decision-making skills aligned with organisational goals.

• Fluent in both written and spoken English.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Extensive knowledge of health, safety, environmental legislation, and security management – Nebosh or Iosh qualification preferred but not essential. 

• Ability to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and customer service.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to present a professional image when representing the club.

• Ability to establish positive working relationships across departments.

• Strong organisational skills with a thorough, detail-oriented approach to work.

• Team-oriented with a willingness to take on additional roles as needed.

• SIA Licence required.