Hever Castle, a historic gem in Kent, England, is home to a team of passionate and dedicated staff who work tirelessly to provide visitors with an exceptional experience. From the castle historian to the catering assistants, each member of the Hever Castle staff plays a vital role in preserving the castle’s rich history and ensuring its smooth operation.
Key Staff Members
Owen Emmerson: Castle Historian and Assistant Curator
Owen Emmerson, a social and cultural historian with a doctorate from the University of Sussex, joined Hever Castle in 2017. As the Castle Historian and Assistant Curator, Owen’s responsibilities include assisting the curator, researching the provenance of collection items, and co-curating exhibitions. He has co-authored two books on the Boleyn family, showcasing his deep knowledge and expertise in the castle’s history.
Iain Smith: Castle Steward
Iain Smith, a retired bank manager, works as a Castle Steward at Hever Castle. He is known for his portrayal of Henry VIII during events at the castle, bringing the history to life for visitors. Iain’s role supports his hobbies and allows him to contribute to the preservation of Hever Castle’s rich heritage.
Management Team
The Hever Castle management team is responsible for the overall operation and strategic direction of the castle. This team includes:
- Duncan Leslie: Chief Executive
- Ashley Collins: Head of Retail and Catering
- Sarah Cole: Employee
- Neil Hobday: Employee
- Helen Francis: Employee
- Jonathan Higgs: Employee
Current Job Openings
Hever Castle is constantly seeking dedicated individuals to join its team. The current job openings at the castle include:
- Term Time Catering Assistant
- Catering Assistant
- Chef de Partie (Golf Club)
- Breakfast & Events Staff
- Team Leader (Golf Club)
Benefits for Staff
Working at Hever Castle comes with a range of benefits for the staff, including:
- Pension scheme
- Complimentary tickets for family and friends
- Subsidised catering
- Discount from retail outlets
- Uniform (where applicable)
These benefits help to attract and retain talented individuals who are passionate about preserving the castle’s history and providing an exceptional visitor experience.
Notable Events and Activities
Hever Castle is known for its diverse range of events and activities that bring the castle’s history to life. One of the most popular events is the Jousting tournament, where visitors can experience the sights and sounds of medieval jousting.
Famous Visitors
Over the years, Hever Castle has welcomed a number of famous visitors, including:
- Dame Judi Dench
- Gloria Hunniford
- Princess Alexandrina Victoria (later Queen Victoria)
- Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
These high-profile visitors have contributed to the castle’s enduring popularity and reputation as a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
Contact Information
For job inquiries at Hever Castle, you can reach out to:
- Phone Number: 01732 701009
- Email: matthew.mcloughlin@hevercastle.co.uk