Town Centre Manager (Fixed term for 18 months)

• Town_Centre_Manager_JDPS

Please apply online via the link provided below. Please note that we do not accept CV's without a fully completed application form.

Ranked in the Sunday Times as one of the best places to live in the UK, and in Lonely Planet as one of the best places to visit, Folkestone & Hythe is a dynamic and innovative place to live, work and stay.

You will be at the heart of the regeneration and uplift of Folkestone town centre and the surrounding area. With the planned completion of major town centre upgrades and the opening of the new Bouverie Square due next year, you will have a fantastic upcoming platform to drive this work forward. This role offers a unique opportunity to prepare for these landmarks, leveraging the existing success of the award-winning Harbour Arm and Creative Quarter to ensure the town is ready to thrive.

Recognised by Best Companies as an outstanding organisation to work for, we have a real focus on supporting career development, wellbeing and family friendly initiatives, and a hybrid agile working culture that enables flexible and remote/home working.

You can also expect an excellent benefits package that includes corporate membership, discount and salary sacrifice schemes, reimbursement of professional membership fees, up to 31 days holiday and Christmas closure, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, and much, much more.

The role

Folkestone & Hythe District Council is seeking a proactive and high-energy Town Centre Manager to lead the transformation of our town centre into a premier, high-impact destination.

Acting as the strategic and operational lead for the Town Centre Operating Model (TCOM), you will be the Council’s ‘on the ground’ link, bridging the gap between local businesses, market operators and event organisers. This is a pivotal role focused on increasing footfall, enhancing economic vitality and ensuring the town centre is a safe and vibrant place for all.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and managing a 6-to-12-month programme of high-quality markets, seasonal festivals and regular events.
• Identifying investment opportunities and infrastructure projects that enhance the town’s appeal to residents and visitors.
• Proactively securing external funding, partnerships, and sponsorships.
• Acting as the primary contact for Market Operators and businesses, ensuring all activity complies with Health & Safety, Licensing, and Trading Standards.
• Leveraging data-driven insights to secure investment from larger businesses and commercial partners.

About You

We are looking for a proactive and personable professional who thrives in a visible, public-facing environment. You must be comfortable working independently, solving complex political or interpersonal issues and maintaining a calm, tactful approach under pressure.

As this role requires a high-visibility presence, you should be happy to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Key Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• At least 2 years of recent experience in Event Management, Town Centre Management or Economic Development.
• Proven understanding of statutory legislation including Health and Safety, Licensing and Trading Standards.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills for drafting complex business cases and managing diverse stakeholder relationships.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (specifically Excel) and ideally familiar with creative software like Canva or Adobe Express.

Candidates should demonstrate flexibility regarding working hours, including weekend availability. Please note that scheduling requirements will fluctuate seasonally, with peak demand during the summer and Christmas periods and reduced requirements during shoulder months.

For an informal conversation about the role please contact: Lorraine Smith, Regeneration Programme Manager (Monday - Wednesday) on 07974 745971 or alternatively Jade Smyth, Regeration Officer (Tuesday - Friday) on 07841 801050.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 9.00am on Friday 5th June 2026.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday 16th June 2026.