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Brands Hatch looking for new circuit manager as Mike Groves to leave MSV at end of season

13:33, 02 September 2021

updated: 18:37, 02 September 2021

Brands Hatch is searching for a new circuit manager for the first time in 13 years - and a background in motorsport is not an essential requirement.

Track operator MSV, which is owned by former Formula 1 driver Jonathan Palmer, is looking for an "exceptionally driven individual" to replace Mike Groves, who will leave the historic West Kingsdown venue once this year's events are complete.

The historic circuit hosts many big events – including the GT World Challenge Europe series. Picture: GT World Challenge Europe
The historic circuit hosts many big events – including the GT World Challenge Europe series. Picture: GT World Challenge Europe

The role is described as "demanding but rewarding" and bosses state candidates must be able to work weekends, especially during the race season, which typically runs from March to October.

They say experience of managing large public venues or events, maintenance of extensive grounds and facilities, and undertaking civil engineering projects would each be an advantage.

Describing a motorsport background as a "great asset but not essential", MSV chiefs say the core working hours are 8.30am to 6pm in the week but stress the hours are driven by the event calendar.

In an advert posted on its website, the company adds: "This prestigious position provides an exciting opportunity to head up the team at one of the UK's premier motorsport venues, reporting directly to our group operations manager and chief executive.

"You will also need to plan and manage all that happens at the venue, from trackdays to club racing and most challengingly major promoted events with big crowds, such as the British Touring Car Championship and British Superbike Championship.

The circuit manager will report directly to MSV chief executive Jonathan Palmer. Picture: Simon Hildrew
The circuit manager will report directly to MSV chief executive Jonathan Palmer. Picture: Simon Hildrew

"You will be responsible for Brands Hatch's financial performance with regard to operational and event budgets, as well as catering outlets, routine maintenance, development projects, health and safety and HR.

"You will have your own team and a wealth of experience from our other capable circuit managers to call on, as well as support from MSV group resources.

"Working effectively with representatives from race series and clubs that will visit Brands Hatch, motorsport governing bodies, the local authority and various tenants and contractors that are on site, is another important part of the job."

MSV, which has owned the circuit since 2004, says "meticulous attention to detail and strong organisational skills are essential".

"You must have a good commercial awareness and be able to make informed decisions and reasoned recommendations for revenue generating opportunities," it adds.

The British Superbike Championship draws thousands of fans to Brands Hatch every season. Picture: Double Red
The British Superbike Championship draws thousands of fans to Brands Hatch every season. Picture: Double Red

"Producing pre-event budgets and post-event returns will be your responsibility so strong IT skills are a must have, especially Microsoft Excel.

"Academic achievements are valued by us and we will be looking for strong results at some or ideally all of GCSEs, A levels, degree or equivalent."

For more details on the vacancy, which closes next Friday (September 10), click here.

Brands Hatch began life in 1926 when grasstrack racing took place on an anti-clockwise layout, with motorcyclists using the natural bowl. In 1950, the track was surfaced with tarmac. Picture: Stuart Adams
Brands Hatch began life in 1926 when grasstrack racing took place on an anti-clockwise layout, with motorcyclists using the natural bowl. In 1950, the track was surfaced with tarmac. Picture: Stuart Adams
MSV's American SpeedFest event is one of the circuit's headline meetings. Picture: Az Edwards
MSV's American SpeedFest event is one of the circuit's headline meetings. Picture: Az Edwards

On Sunday, Kent team Jota Sport came close to winning at its home circuit when the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup returned to the county for the first time since 2019.

For a pictorial look back at the history of Brands Hatch, click here.

Read more: All the latest sport news from Kent

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