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Merlin Entertainments • Winter Haven, 33884, US

Senior Planning & Resource Manager (Park Operations)

Employment type:  Full time
8.6

/10

Transparency ranking
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Job Description

What you'll bring to the team

The Senior Planning and Resource Manager leads operational workforce planning and onsite coordination for the attraction’s variable workforce. This role manages and mentors Operations Planners, supports senior operations teams, and delivers data-driven workforce strategies aligned to business needs, guest demand, and budget. Acting as a key liaison with the Regional People Hub, the role supports talent planning, employee relations, and colleague engagement, ensuring the right people with the right skills are in place to deliver efficient operations and exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications & Experience

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead workforce planning and scheduling, including break planning, contingency coverage, forecasting for guest demand, peak periods, and special events.

  • Monitor staffing trends, performance metrics, and operational data from multiple sources to proactively identify and resolve resourcing challenges.

  • Drive efficiency improvements in workforce systems and processes using data and analytics to optimize planning, compliance, and cost control.

  • Ensure all rosters and resource processes comply with labor laws, operational standards, and company policies.

  • Manage daily resource allocation to balance operational needs, budget, team wellbeing, and guest experience.

  • Oversee onboarding and integration of new hires, including hiring events, inductions, uniform issuance, and role-specific training coordination.

  • Lead and support Employee Relations processes, including investigations, disciplinary actions, tracking, reporting, and promoting a positive work environment.

  • Oversee operations control activities, including monitoring park performance, triaging operational requests, coordinating real-time resourcing decisions, and maintaining clear communication with operational teams.

  • Evaluate operational situations using data from diverse inputs to inform resource deployment, operational improvements, and performance reporting.

  • Collaborate with operational teams to communicate key insights in real time to support business objectives and KPIs.

  • Lead, coach, and develop the planning and resource team through performance management, regular feedback, and professional development.

  • Act as a senior escalation point for workforce planning and operational resourcing issues, driving timely and effective resolutions.

  • Monitor, analyze, and report on workforce planning KPIs, Employee Relations trends, and resource efficiency metrics.

  • Ensure continuous improvement and compliance of workforce-related SOPs, systems, and documentation.

  • Partner closely with the Director of Planning and Business Support, Resort Operations, and People Hub teams to align workforce strategy and ensure consistency and legal compliance.

  • Oversee Health, Safety, and Security compliance, including risk assessment awareness, incident response, and acting as Incident Director when required.

Experience and Qualifications

  • Proven experience in workforce planning, employee relations, operational management, or resource coordination in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience managing and developing teams, with a focus on driving performance and collaboration.
  • Strong knowledge of scheduling systems, labour laws, and compliance processes.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze data, identify trends, and implement strategies for operational improvement.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to guide and influence the Senior Leadership Team.

Benefits

  • Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions.
  • Recognition Programs and Rewards.
  • 401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions.
  • Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth.
  • Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us!

Pay Range

Competitive

Company benefits

Annual bonus
Buy or sell annual leave
Charity donation scheme
Cycle to work scheme
Employee assistance programme
Employee discounts – 40% LEGO Discount
Enhanced pension match/contribution
Eye Care Support
Family health insurance
Health insurance
Theme park discounts
Lunch and learns
In house training
Further education support
Open to part time work for some roles

Working at Merlin Entertainments

Company employees:

22,000

Gender diversity (m:f:n-b):

0:52:48

Hiring in countries

Australia

Belgium

Canada

Denmark

Germany

Iceland

Italy

Netherlands

United Kingdom

United States

Office Locations

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