Stuart Jarman, general manager – The York Dungeon

The York Dungeon’s general manager Stuart Jarman made the move to the attraction last year from his previous role as head of visitor service and experience at the JORVIK Group in York.

A qualified HR Professional, Stuart’s role at The York Dungeon sees him leading a team of 50 staff and ensuring that 200,000 visitors annually have an experience that is both scary and fun.

Stuart started his path to a career in experience arts when he studied a theatre and politics degree at York St John University in 2003, graduating in 2006. Upon graduating he worked as recruitment and retention manager for McDonalds looking after eight stores in York, Scarborough and Ripon.

Stuart plays an active role in the York community as a local school governor and he also sits on the Lord Mayor of York Charity Committee.

What job would you like to have other than your own and why?

“I would have loved to have been a primary school teacher as I really enjoy identifying talent in everyone and getting the best out of people. I think that it’s important to search for this at a young age in order to encourage and help people develop.”

Greatest achievement?

“I am driven by results and in my working life have successfully managed to reach the goals set by myself and others. If I had to put down to a single achievement it would be being the first in my family to go to University.”

What makes you most angry?

“People who continually moan about anything and everything … life is too short.”

Biggest mistake?

“That’s a tough one. As I always tell everyone I don’t make them – which of course is not the case. I suppose it would have to be not going into teaching when I first graduated.”

What do you need to make life complete?

“To keep busy and I really enjoy helping others. I get a sense of completion from aiding others. I have sat on the Lord Mayor of York’s charity committee for the past two years, volunteered with different charities and also been a school governor all in the city of York.”

Why do you make a difference?

“I am passionate about everything I do. I believe that you are only as strong as your team so I lead from that notion to ensure that everyone is utilised to their best ability, playing their part for the good of the business.”

Epitaph?

“Live every day as if it’s your last!”