Artist development programme manager jobs

Role Summary

Julie’s Bicycle (JB) is seeking an experienced project manager to work across our Arts Council England Programme. This is a rare opportunity to join JB’s passionate, expert, and friendly team at our internationally renowned non-profit, working at the intersection of culture and the climate crisis.

Job title: Culture & Climate Project Manager
Contract: 1.0 FTE (part-time can be considered for the right candidate), 1 year fixed-term contract with the possibility to become permanent
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £39k to £41k p.a. (pro rata), depending on experience
Reporting to: Arts Council England Lead and Programme Manager
Start date: ASAP - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Normal hours: Office hours are 9.30 - 5.30pm, Monday – Friday.
(requests for flexible working hours will be considered)

Other: 

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

Some travel is involved in this role - to visit organisations and run programme activities.

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please email us (information in the link provided). 

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB unites culture, creativity and climate action to drive change. For nearly two decades, we’ve been at the forefront of the creative climate movement - one of the first to position culture as a powerful force for radical change. Our mission is to mobilise the creative sector, equipping thousands of artists, cultural organisations, and creative leaders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to transform their practice into climate action. We focus on tackling the root causes of the climate, nature, and justice crises by shaping thinking, informing policy, and scaling practical solutions. Together, we can turn creativity into a powerful force for a just and regenerative future.

About Key Programmes

Our Partnership with Arts Council England 

Julie’s Bicycle delivers the Arts Council England’s Environmental Programme, supporting organisations to embed Environmental Responsibility (ER) within their governance, operations and programmes, and supporting the Arts Council England (ACE) to drive positive environmental change within the sector. The programme focuses on delivering support to National Portfolio Organisations (NPOs) and Investment Principle Support Organisations (IPSOs), as well as the wider creative and cultural sector through a suite of free tools, resources, events and programmes.

Our programme is adaptive, responding to sector needs, insights and learning from delivery. As such, there is a significant opportunity for a collaborative and experienced project manager to deliver strands of work across the programme and to help shape the programme itself in response to learning and insights.

The Environmental Programme broadly includes: 

Sector support: developing resources, running events, facilitating workshops and peer share spaces to deepen understanding and share knowledge on topics relevant to environmental sustainability, tailored for freelance creatives, boards, cultural buildings and cultural practitioners; broadening access to cultural climate practice via creative climate e-learning;

Sector reporting: supporting organisations in reporting their environmental impacts and actions using the Creative Climate Tools - our platform created for cultural organisations and businesses.

Sector leadership: to inspire, develop and nurture sector leadership via a number of dedicated programme strands focused on governance, justice, resilience and decarbonisation.

Responsibilities

We are looking for an outstanding and energetic individual to join our team as a Culture and Climate Project Manager, leading and facilitating key strands of work across the programme in partnership with ACE.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Annual Report: project managing, writing and delivering the ACE Annual Report. Drawing together both qualitative and quantitative data, case studies and stories of change to create an annual snapshot of environmental activity across the portfolio. You will work closely with the ACE team Environmental Coordinator on this project. Tasks will include:

  • End-to-end project management: Create and manage the production timeline, ensuring the report is delivered on time and meets Arts Council England (ACE) standards.

  • Data Synthesis: Collaborate with the Environmental Sustainability Coordinator to gather, analyse, and interpret both quantitative (carbon data, metrics) and qualitative (narrative progress) information.

  • Storytelling & impact: Coordinate the strategy and team involved in identifying and developing compelling case studies and "stories of change" that demonstrate the real-world impact of environmental activity across the portfolio.

  • Content development: Draft, edit, and refine the report narrative to ensure a compelling, cohesive, and accessible copy. Manage all the contributions to the copy and version control process.

  • Engage with ACE and JB’s comms team for the launch of the report to ensure maximum impact.

• E-learning module/s: Leading and project managing the development of new modules, working across internal teams to co-design and deliver engaging content and a great user experience.

  • Strategic lead: Serve as the primary project manager for the creation of new digital learning assets from concept to launch.

  • Content development co-design & collaboration: Lead on the content development and/or the facilitation of content co-creation with internal teams and expert associates to gather subject matter expertise and ensure content aligns with the programme’s strategy.

  • User experience (UX) oversight: Ensure modules are engaging, accessible, and intuitive for a diverse range of learners.

  • Production management: Oversee the technical and creative delivery of content, managing workflows between designers, LMS developers, and internal stakeholders.

• ACE partnership support: working in partnership with ACE's environmental responsibility team to help embed ER within the organisation, including stakeholder liaison and consultation workshops with area/regional managers.

  • Stakeholder Liaison: Build and maintain strong working relationships with the ACE environmental responsibility team and regional leads.

  • Consultation & Facilitation: Design and lead workshops for area and regional managers to gather feedback and align on ER implementation strategies.

• Programme delivery: Working collaboratively on the delivery of the ACE programme. This will include:

  • Resource development: Conduct research to create toolkits, guides, and practical resources that support the wider ACE programme.

  • Training design: Develop and facilitate training sessions, ensuring content is tailored for both in-person and virtual delivery.

  • Group facilitation: Convene and lead focus groups, stakeholder networks, and leadership sessions to foster knowledge sharing and peer learning.

  • Collaborative team work: Work fluidly across the delivery team to support large-scale program milestones and ensure a high standard and participant engagement.

About you:

You will be passionate about the cultural sector's role in responding to the climate and nature crisis, and committed to embedding values of care, stewardship, justice and collaborative action within it.

Candidates may come from a climate science background and we welcome applications from candidates with non-traditional career paths. You must demonstrate significant project management and partnership experience, combining strategic thinking with hands-on delivery. You will be an excellent communicator with a flexible, solution focused approach, and keen to also contribute actively to the learning and culture of the wider JB team.

Experience And Skills

Essential

• A genuine and demonstrable interest in arts and culture, the role they can play in the climate crisis, and the sustainability challenges facing the sector. This needs to be partnered with a deep and demonstrable commitment to climate justice.

• Significant project management experience (at least 5-7 years), developed across mid-large scale programmes, freelance work, or a combination of both, with strong attention to detail across all stages of delivery.

• Demonstrable experience in leading the development of e-learning or online training, whether through content design, learning frameworks, and/or digital/UX production, or transferable experience and skills that could demonstrate you’ll be able to lead deliver this part of the role.

• A degree in environmental science/studies/management/sustainability or related area, or a cultural degree that includes environmental/sustainability intersections or evidence of equivalent relevant expertise.

• Demonstrable experience of partnership working with external organisations and stakeholders, including facilitation of groups across cultural or environmental contexts. Ideally with cultural practitioners, institutions and funders.

• Experience of running consultation and/or action research with cultural or environmental sector individuals and organisations.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly across different partners and audiences and, ideally, proven ability to translate complex datasets and environmental metrics into accessible, compelling copy.

• A proactive, flexible approach with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and a genuine curiosity and commitment to drawing out learning to support adaptive programme design.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the ACE investment portfolio and/or the wider publicly funded cultural sector

• Experience of successfully managing climate, environmental and/or justice projects, working in partnership with external organisations

• Developed experience working with freelance artists and creative organisations within networks or peer sharing contexts

• Experience of participatory or co-design/collaboration approaches to content development, facilitation and consultation.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture, where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to apply

If you’d like to apply, please: 

• Complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form found on our website.

Submit these via our application portal by 11.59pm on Sunday 17th of May 2026. We strongly encourage early applications as we may close the recruitment early if we have reached a sufficient number of viable applications.

Please note that this role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

We know job descriptions can feel daunting and that people who are from the global majority, from working class backgrounds, those without formal qualifications and some LGBTQ+ candidates are statistically less likely to apply even when they are well suited to a role.

If you read this JD and felt you *almost* matched (if you have built relevant skills through freelance work, lived experience, activism, organising or routes outside formal education) we very much want to hear from you! We also believe class is not defined by education or parental occupation alone. If you identify as working class by your current financial experience and lifestyle, that counts.

Our commitment to meeting underrepresented individuals in the sector:

Guaranteed Interview Scheme and Positive Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to building a team that better reflects the people, communities and causes we serve, we operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled candidates, in line with the Equality Act 2010.

This scheme is available to candidates who identify as disabled (including under the social model of disability, encompassing physical, sensory, cognitive, mental health and long-term health conditions) and who can demonstrate within their application that they meet all of the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Candidates will be asked within the equal opportunities form whether they wish to be considered under this scheme. This information will be handled in confidence and will only be shared with those involved in the shortlisting process where necessary to apply the scheme.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce and recognise that some groups are underrepresented within our organisation and sector. We therefore actively encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Where candidates are equally qualified, we may apply positive action in line with the Equality Act 2010 to select a candidate from an underrepresented group, where this is a proportionate means of addressing underrepresentation.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

Scottish Opera is Scotland’s national opera company and the country’s largest performing arts organisation. Founded in 1962 to make opera accessible to all, the company presents productions of international acclaim, from early works to world premieres. Performances are designed to be inclusive, with supertitles, audio-described and dementia-friendly shows, free and discounted tickets for under-26s, refugees, asylum seekers and schools, and touring productions reaching communities across Scotland.

The charity has developed their fundraising strategy and identified corporate partnerships as clear area of growth and potential. As a result they are bringing in this brand-new role to provide dedicated capacity and focus. The post holder will proactively develop the corporate pipeline, securing new partners and provide excellent account management to existing, valued partners.

It is an exciting time to join Scottish Opera. They have invested in the fundraising team, there is organisation-wide support for fundraising, and many opportunities to engage potential partners across their annual programme.

This role might be for you if have broader fundraising experience, and are looking to specialise in corporate fundraising, are an experienced corporate fundraiser looking to step up to a manager level role.

Working within an arts and culture charity would be helpful for the candidate to have but isn't essential.

Application notes 

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitmen to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Tuesday 19th May 

Interviews are planned for 27th and 28th May (Stage 1) and 2nd and 3rd June (Stage 2) 

Role Summary

Job title: Marketing & Communications Manager
Contract: Full time, 1 year contract (possibility of becoming permanent)
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £40k p.a.
Reporting to: Marketing Lead, with a dotted line to Communications Lead
Start date: May 2026 - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Hours: Working hours are 9.30am - 5.30pm, Monday to Friday
(requests for flexible working hours will be considered) 

Other:

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please contact us (information in the link provided).

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB unites culture, creativity and climate action to drive change. For nearly two decades, we’ve been at the forefront of the creative climate movement - one of the first to position culture as a powerful force for radical change. Our mission is to mobilise the creative sector, equipping thousands of artists, cultural organisations, and creative leaders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to transform their practice into climate action. We focus on tackling the root causes of the climate, nature, and justice crises by shaping thinking, informing policy, and scaling practical solutions. Together, we can turn creativity into a powerful force for a just and regenerative future.

The Role

We need a proactive and hands-on Marketing & Communications Manager to drive the delivery of the next phase of our communications and marketing strategies. 

This role is about more than messaging or promotion—it’s about co-creating and delivering a compelling and inspiring narrative of creative climate action. Along with our Marketing and Comms Leads, you will be responsible for our brand, storytelling, content strategy, and creative outputs - originating concepts, internal design work, and driving conversion - ensuring that everything we do reflects our values, amplifies our impact, and deepens our reach across the cultural and climate landscape. You’ll play a key role in supporting our impact by leading our day to day communications delivery.

This will involve deputising for some of the (part time) Marketing and Comms Leads delivery on days when they are not present and contributing across the whole portfolio of work at JB.

This digital-first role includes a strong focus on content development, storytelling, and delivering varied communication campaigns. You’ll be responsible for independently creating, repurposing and distributing engaging content in a consistent voice across our digital channels. Alongside our Marketing Lead and Communications Lead, you will ensure our insights, tools, and narratives are warm, purpose-focused, clear, accessible, and optimised for reach and engagement. You will be someone who thrives on the combination of co-shaping strategic ideas and plans while driving hands-on effective delivery.

As a confident marcomms expert, you will liaise directly with our partner organisations to co-create communications, support joint campaigns, and boost JB’s voice in the broader climate and culture movement. This will involve growing our audiences, media contacts and networks, including welcoming new cultural organisations, creative practitioners, environmental partners, and funders into our network. This role needs a strategic, proactive and flexible individual with enthusiasm for and significant experience of marketing and/or communications.

You will be part of a small Marketing and Communications team and work closely with the rest of JB’s 20-person, supportive and mission-driven team.

Key Responsibilities

Content, Socials & Campaigns

• Lead on the development of timely, engaging, inclusive content across all JB’s digital channels (including copy-writing across channels, website, newsletters and social media).
• Lead on a JB bulletin strategy, with pre-planned themes aligning with our aims and a readership growth plan (working closely with our Marketing Lead and CRM manager) as well as leading on the writing, preparing and distributing segmented bulletins for the sector and key programmes (with content support from across the team).
• Maintain, manage and optimise editorial calendars that reflect our programmes, partnerships, research, and events and regularly engage the programme leads in the process.
• Alongside the Comms and Marketing Leads, oversee and support the production, publication, marketing, distribution and evaluation of JB’s full range of content including podcasts, films, events, briefings, reports, guides and resource libraries related to the climate, nature and justice crisis, ensuring appropriate tone and key messages.
• Leading on the production of marketing and comms packs for outreach on key events and announcements, including associated thought-leadership pieces, and the production of a public annual report.
• Ensure all content is optimised for audience growth, accessibility, and search (SEO, GEO), working closely with our Marketing Lead who leads on our overall web and marketing strategies.
• Sharing responsibility for driving forwards our social media strategy and developing, designing, and scheduling engaging content on social media, working closely with our Social Media Manager and wider marcomms team.
• Receptive, reactive community engagement on social media, including social listening, and supportive and timely responses.
• With support from the Marketing Lead and working very closely with the Programme Coordinator, take ownership of embedding accessibility best practice for events, marketing and across all communications, including preparing transcriptions and integrating captions and alt text, large format materials, audio description and accessible slideshows.
• Managing and optimising JB’s YouTube channel, including the creation of post-event assets to be published across the website.

CRM, Partnerships & Audience Development

• Taking responsibility for the day to day management and maintenance of JB’s newly implemented CRM, ensuring audience segmentation according to latest data protection, use and access requirements (with support from JB’s dedicated CRM Manager, Marketing Lead, and Digital Champions).
• Nurturing relationships with relevant networks and partners, identifying and collating regular updates and opportunities.
• Collaborate with cultural, environmental, and funding partners to co-create engaging shared messaging, campaigns, and communications assets to bring in new business opportunities.

Brand, Creative & Strategy

• Jointly responsible for brand implementation when deputising for Marketing and Comms Leads, ensuring coherence of messaging and tone across all channels and materials. 
• Draft internal and external reference guides for JB’s work, including the preparation of marketing and comms packs for outreach on key events and announcements and the production of a public annual report.
• Take a data-led approach to maximise impact of our marketing and communications, including managing regular marketing and events evaluation, feedback, surveys and audience and engagement analysis. 
• Ensure Julie’s Bicycle’s story, brand, voice, and impact are clearly represented in all collaborations and public-facing materials.
• Profile the JB community, including creating ads, promoting alumni networks, identifying and applying for awards, compiling interviews, brochures, vlogs, blogs, testimonials, and documentation from events.
• Supporting the implementation of the Google Ads charity grant and owning the creative production of associated ads, with support from the Marketing Lead.

Media & External Relations

• Maintain relationships with relevant journalists and media outlets, responding to media opportunities that align with our strategy, and tracking press coverage.
• Support the Director and other team members with media briefings and public communications as needed.
• Some proactive outreach to press and media, coordinating occasional pitches and press releases, along with the Comms Lead.
• When funded opportunities arise, liaise with external PR and media consultants.

Strategy & Project Management

• Drive forward JB’s communications and marketing strategies day to day, positioning JB as a cultural leader in climate action.
• Work with Comms & Marketing Leads to support organisational growth, fundraising, and communicate impact, helping to expand our network and deepen engagement with the arts and cultural sector and the climate and environmental movement. 
• Embed climate justice and equity throughout our communications, ensuring our language, images, and stories reflect a diverse, accessible, and fair transition.
• Champion our core narrative: putting climate action at the heart of culture.
• Ensure projects are managed on time and on budget.

Team & Collaboration

• Work closely with all internal teams—partnership, consultancy, research, advocacy, programmes—to align messaging and amplify impact.
• Contribute to organisational learning, planning, and shared values.
• With the wider marcomms team, strengthen internal editorial and brand sign off processes for publications, media releases and key content.
• Support impact measurement, effective data capture, and communication of impact.

Person Specification

Essential

• Extensive experience (ideally a minimum of five years) in a managerial communications and/or marketing role, ideally within the cultural, environmental, or non-profit sectors.
• Extensive experience (ideally a minimum of five years) in designing/co-designing and delivering successful communications and/or marketing strategies.
• Impeccable writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with a track record of developing impactful clear, creative, and inclusive content.
• Strong experience of having led or managed campaign development, brand implementation, visual storytelling, and communications project management.
• Dedicated and demonstrable project management skills: the ability to meet multiple ambitious deadlines simultaneously and work flexibly, proactively, autonomously and collaboratively across priorities in a fast-changing environment.
• Strong and demonstrable experience in data analysis and data-led communication and marketing campaigns, with project evaluation experience.
• Knowledge of content strategy, SEO, and effective audience engagement practices across digital platforms.
• Extensive practical experience in effectively coordinating social media accounts for a professional setting.
• Demonstrable ability to embed equity, diversity, and commitment to climate justice into communications practice.
• Collaborative and confident communicator and/or marketer with experience working strategically across teams and with external partners.
• Strategic thinker with a demonstrable commitment to Julie’s Bicycle’s mission and values.
• Strong design aesthetic and use of design skills (e.g. Adobe Creative Cloud suite and Canva).
• Experience of working in partnership with organisations and key stakeholders to deliver a shared campaign.
• Significant experience managing a CMS and maintaining and optimising engaging websites.
• Experienced with day to day management of an Email Management System (eg Mailchimp / similar) with an understanding of segmentation practices. 
• Significant experience managing or maintenance of a CRM, with an interest in and understanding of accessibility requirements and data protection best practices.
• Attention to detail and excellent proof reading.

Desirable

• Familiarity with climate and/or cultural policy environments.
• Experience working with funders, public bodies, or large-scale cultural partnerships.
• PR and media relations experience and contacts across digital and print channels.
• Experience of organising media interviews and/or working on press & media campaigns.
• Design, photography, or multimedia experience.
• Experience contributing to organisational growth and development through communications and/or marketing.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture — where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to Apply

If you’d like to apply, please complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form on our website and submit these by 11.59pm on Sunday 17th May 2026.

Please note that this role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

We strongly encourage early applications as we may close the recruitment early if we have reached a sufficient number of viable applications.

We know job descriptions can feel daunting and that people who are from the global majority, from working class backgrounds, those without formal qualifications and some LGBTQ+ candidates are statistically less likely to apply even when they are well suited to a role.

If you read this JD and felt you *almost* matched (if you have built relevant skills through freelance work, lived experience, activism, organising or routes outside formal education) we very much want to hear from you! We also believe class is not defined by education or parental occupation alone. If you identify as working class by your current financial experience and lifestyle, that counts.

Our commitment to meeting underrepresented individuals in the sector:

Guaranteed Interview Scheme and Positive Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to building a team that better reflects the people, communities and causes we serve, we operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled candidates, in line with the Equality Act 2010.

This scheme is available to candidates who identify as disabled (including under the social model of disability, encompassing physical, sensory, cognitive, mental health and long-term health conditions) and who can demonstrate within their application that they meet all of the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Candidates will be asked within the equal opportunities form whether they wish to be considered under this scheme. This information will be handled in confidence and will only be shared with those involved in the shortlisting process where necessary to apply the scheme.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce and recognise that some groups are underrepresented within our organisation and sector. We therefore actively encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Where candidates are equally qualified, we may apply positive action in line with the Equality Act 2010 to select a candidate from an underrepresented group, where this is a proportionate means of addressing underrepresentation.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

Artsreach is seeking a highly motivated, creative and strategically minded individual to lead all marketing activity and raise the profile of our work across rural Dorset, crafting compelling stories, producing high‑quality digital and print content, managing press and social media, and developing strategies that strengthen audience engagement.

Artsreach is Dorset’s touring arts charity, presenting a programme of professional theatre, dance, music and participatory activity in rural communities of the county. Supported by Dorset Council, Artsreach is also part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio, and celebrated its 35th Anniversary in 2025. Since the launch of its first programme in March 1990, Artsreach has been committed to working with volunteers across Dorset to overcome the barriers of rural and social isolation by providing communities with access to professional arts events, firmly believing that engagement enriches quality of life

The Marketing & Communications Officer will play a key role in raising the profile of Artsreach. By immersing yourself in our communities, our programme and the stories behind our work, you will create compelling content and build narratives that effectively communicate who we are and the impact we make to audiences, artists, funders and partners.

You will lead the planning and delivery of audience‑focused marketing and communications activity that increases awareness and strengthens engagement. This includes developing clear communications strategies, producing compelling digital and print content, and managing press, social media and other digital platforms.

A key part of the role is storytelling: gathering data, case studies and evidence of impact from across our programmes, and shaping these into accessible, persuasive communications that speak to the needs of our audience, volunteers, supporters and funders. Working closely with the team and our volunteer promoter network, you will ensure that our activity is visible, our messaging is consistent, and our unique contribution to rural communities is clearly understood.

Working within a small team can at times be highly pressurised, so we require someone who can adapt quickly and contribute positively to a supportive and collaborative working culture. This role will suit an individual with strong experience in cultural marketing, who can bring fresh ideas, confidence with digital tools, and a commitment to widening access to the arts across rural communities.

Job title: Operations & People Lead
Contract: 1.0 FTE - 1 year fixed-term contract with the possibility to become permanent
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £45k to £50k p.a. (pro rata), depending on experience
Reporting to: CEO
Start date: ASAP - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Normal hours: Office hours are 9.30 - 5.30pm, Monday – Friday. As this is ideally a 0.8 FTE role, there is flexibility on how the time is spread across the week. Please state how you would intend to allocate your time when you apply. (requests for flexible working hours will be considered) 

Other: 

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

Some travel is involved in this role, to visit organisations and run programme activities.

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please email us (information in the link provided). 

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB unites culture, creativity and climate action to drive change. For nearly two decades, we’ve been at the forefront of the creative climate movement - one of the first to position culture as a powerful force for radical change. Our mission is to mobilise the creative sector, equipping thousands of artists, cultural organisations, and creative leaders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to transform their practice into climate action. We focus on tackling the root causes of the climate, nature, and justice crises by shaping thinking, informing policy, and scaling practical solutions. Together, we can turn creativity into a powerful force for a just and regenerative future.

Role summary

As our new Operations and People Lead, you will help us continue to build and nurture a strong, can-do, and empowering operational culture that is rooted in collaboration, equity and care. You will support the CEO in ensuring the right systems and processes are in place for the smooth running of the organisation and support the Head of Programmes in the seamless delivery of our programs during a period of rapid change. You will collaborate with the whole team to continue to strengthen our equitable foundations and ensure our internal structures fully reflect and sustain our core values of justice and care.

Your goal will be to balance operational efficiency with team well-being, optimising people and teams allocations and implementing new approaches and processes so that we deliver outstanding work, while our people thrive. You will allow the leadership to focus on high-level strategy while you support us in continuing to nurture our supportive, empowering, and equitable working environment.

Key Responsibilities

People strategy - (Approx 40%)

• Operations strategy and ways of working: Work with the CEO and SLT, co-design and implement a robust operations strategy and clear ways of working for effective allocation of team and resources to achieve the organisation's objectives, strengthening further our  principles of deep collaboration, equity and care.

• Equitable recruitment and retention strategy: Building on our existing progress in inclusive hiring, you will work closely with the CEO and SLT to evolve and champion our recruitment and retention strategy. You will continue to refine our processes, ensuring we remain at the forefront of removing access barriers and nurturing a diverse, flourishing, and long-term workforce. You will be responsible for timelining, creating Job Descriptions; advertising strategy and budget; liaise with hiring manager; referencing; offer letters & contracts.

• People development & care: Working closely with the CEO and SLT, contribute to the development and lead on the implementation of training, continuous professional development processes and policies that enable transparency, peer to peer feedback, psychological safety, professional development and empowerment.

• Delivery strategy: Working closely with the Head of Programmes, design and drive a capacity planning strategy for the team across 20+ projects to ensure impact delivery as well as balanced workloads. 

• Cross-cutting principles: Working closely with the CEO, leading internal policy work, you will steward and expand our internal policy framework, ensuring that our established principles of wellbeing, diversity, accessibility, and anti-racism continue to be deeply woven into the fabric of every new and existing policy.

Operational excellence (Approx 30%)

• Systems improvement: Enhance and adjust systems, processes, and best practices to ensure they are flexible enough to respond to the lived realities of a diverse team.

• Digital access: Lead the planning and implementation of IT and digital strategies that facilitate accessible and collaborative remote/hybrid working.

• Compliance and safety: Maintain and communicate health, safety, and security protocols through a lens of collective care and team protection.

• Process standardisation: Working with the CEO and Finance Manager, drive consistency across HR, admin, and finance to reduce cognitive load and administrative friction for the team.

HR & financial administration (Approx 20%)

• HR: 

  • HR Software & data ownership, maintenance and ensuring consistency in colleagues use of the software. 

  • Act as the primary point of contact for HR enquiries, accessibility requests, and leave calculation.

  • Act on behalf of the CEO in handling confidential issues with care and restorative intent & liaising with external HR advisor.

• Financial support: In partnership with our Finance Manager, coordinate confidential finance administration, including payroll, pensions, and audit preparation, ensuring all team members are supported by stable financial operations.

• Resource management: Manage IT and Operations budgets.

• Contract management: Oversee the administration of employment contracts and agreements and NDAs for freelancers, as well as internship placements to ensure fair and clear working agreements.

Executive support & governance (Approx 10% of the time)

• Leadership partnership: Support the SLT in strategic direction, planning, and workforce development so they can focus on fundraising, advocacy and high-level impact work.

• Support the CEO on internal communications, business travel, scheduling, diary management, technical assistance.

• Board: Manage all JB Board administration, including arranging quarterly meetings, minutes, etc.

• Funding & tenders: Provide necessary operational and organisational information for funding applications and manage portal processes for payments and offers.

• Office Management: Lead on the management of JB’s office, ensuring that the office is a comfortable working environment and equipment is maintained. Be the first point of contact for Somerset House, facilities, and for office related issues.

Person Specification

Essential

• HR Expertise: Six to eight years of demonstrable practical experience in designing and implementing People centred strategies with a focus on collaborative leadership rooted in inclusion, equity, diversity and care (six to eight years of experience). We’re particularly interested in someone experienced and/or genuinely interested in participatory design methods that incorporate the lived experiences of a diverse team.

• Operational excellence: Six to eight years of demonstrable practical experience of developing and implementing effective operations strategies and effective systems and processes that enable organisational excellence and staff wellbeing.

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment for the role of culture in addressing the climate, environment and justice crises, preferably with experience of working with values-led teams working on systemic issues especially working across climate, environmental and justice issues.

• Demonstrable experience of planning and implementing streamlined digital operations, bringing a seamless and cohesive approach to IT and software solutions.

• Strategic thinking with an eye for detail: Ability to contribute to high-level strategy while maintaining excellent attention to detail.

• Excellent communication skills: Ability to communicate key messages effectively across various written and verbal forms.

• Broad familiarity with financial and business principles.

• Effectively manage competing priorities and adapt and respond as business needs require

• Experience of planning using organisational and project management skills with the ability to work under pressure and manage time and resources effectively.

• Creative problem solving skills

• A proactive, flexible approach, and ability to progress work independently in a fast paced environment.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture, where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to apply

If you’d like to apply, please: 

• Complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form found on our website.

Submit these via our application portal by 11.59pm on Sunday 17th May 2026.

We strongly encourage early applications as we may close the recruitment early if we have reached a sufficient number of viable applications.

We know job descriptions can feel daunting and that people who are from the global majority, from working class backgrounds, those without formal qualifications and some LGBTQ+ candidates are statistically less likely to apply even when they are well suited to a role.

If you read this JD and felt you *almost* matched (if you have built relevant skills through freelance work, lived experience, activism, organising or routes outside formal education) we very much want to hear from you! We also believe class is not defined by education or parental occupation alone. If you identify as working class by your current financial experience and lifestyle, that counts.

Our commitment to meeting underrepresented individuals in the sector:

Guaranteed Interview Scheme and Positive Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to building a team that better reflects the people, communities and causes we serve, we operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled candidates, in line with the Equality Act 2010.

This scheme is available to candidates who identify as disabled (including under the social model of disability, encompassing physical, sensory, cognitive, mental health and long-term health conditions) and who can demonstrate within their application that they meet all of the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Candidates will be asked within the equal opportunities form whether they wish to be considered under this scheme. This information will be handled in confidence and will only be shared with those involved in the shortlisting process where necessary to apply the scheme.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce and recognise that some groups are underrepresented within our organisation and sector. We therefore actively encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Where candidates are equally qualified, we may apply positive action in line with the Equality Act 2010 to select a candidate from an underrepresented group, where this is a proportionate means of addressing underrepresentation.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

Lightbox Gallery & Museum is entering an ambitious new phase as we prepare for our 20th anniversary in 2027. This role offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced and initiative-taking fundraiser to help shape the organisation’s future by developing new income streams and leading our anniversary campaign, Lightbox20.

You will take ownership of the campaign activity across the organisation - developing strategy, building relationships with donors and partners, and delivering income to agreed targets. At the same time, you will manage the practical detail that underpins successful fundraising, including stewardship and our CRM system.

Key priorities are developing and delivering the Big Give campaign this year, capital fundraising for the garden and our 20th anniversary Lightbox 20.  

This role will suit someone who thrives in a small organisation, understands the unique challenges and opportunity this brings and who is self-motivated to build an ambitious campaign from the ground up. The successful appointee will combine strategic thinking with direct delivery, collaborating closely with the Director and Trustees to secure the next chapter of Lightbox Gallery’s success.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Fundraising Leadership

• Lead the delivery of the Lightbox20 anniversary campaign, creating compelling cases for support, preparing fundraising collateral, and engaging supporters and stakeholders.
• Deliver an ambitious fundraising campaign with clear targets that is aligned with organisational goals.
• Identify and develop new fundraising opportunities, partnerships, and income streams, including the Big Give campaign for Giving Tuesday December 2026.

Relationship and pipeline management

• Collaborate closely with the Trustees and Director to identify, build, and manage relationships with individual donors, supporters and prospects.
• Develop cultivation and stewardship plans, including face-to-face meetings, events, and personalised engagement.
• Confidently represent the organisation when meeting donors and supporters.

• Identify local business sponsorship opportunities and approach relevant businesses to celebrate Lightbox20.
• Maintain strong relationships with funding partners through effective reporting and stewardship.

Event support

• Support and attend fundraising events and campaigns, including Director’s Circle events, and donor cultivation and stewardship activities.
• Work collaboratively across the organisation to maximise fundraising opportunities within exhibitions and public programmes.

Fundraising Operations & Administration

• Manage campaign donor communications, acknowledgements, and stewardship processes.
• Conduct prospect research and maintain accurate records.
• Monitor income, prepare reports, and track fundraising performance on the database, Raiser’s Edge.
• Ensure fundraising activities comply with relevant regulations and best practice.

For the person specification, please see the Job Description attached.

The Chief Executive & Creative Director holds the most senior post at Dance City, unites the creative and strategic functions of the organisation, and is accountable to the board of trustees for the good management and impact of the charity. The Chief Executive & Creative Director leads and works collaboratively with the board, senior management team (SMT) and stakeholders and partners to ensure that Dance City creates opportunities for people to create, produce and experience dance at its very best. The Chief Executive & Creative Director drives the business, identifying commercial opportunities, securing financial resilience, and ensuring that Dance City’s programme is at the vanguard of sustainable dance development in the region. The Chief Executive & Creative Director is based in the northeast and plays an active role in the social life and cultural communities of the region. 
 

Role Profile and Person Specification 

Key deliverables 

• Lead on Dance City’s vision, values and organisational objectives and ensure the relevance and sustainability of its creative programme.

• Ensure there is alignment between Dance City’s creative ambitions and its business needs and that all activity is delivered to the highest possible standards to plan and within budget.

• Grow the organisation’s earned income and shape and set targets for initiatives embracing commercial ventures, corporate partnerships, public funding, trusts and foundations and individual philanthropy.

• Be accountable to the board and to funding bodies, and for the responsible stewardship of Dance City.

• Ensure a strong profile and reputation for the organisation and for dance practice locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. 

• Initiate, develop and sustain partnerships with existing and potential funders and key stakeholders. 

• Lead and enable the senior team; motivate, inspire, and support the development of the wider staff team.

Role profile 

Leadership and governance  

• Develop and monitor the strategic plan with the SMT and Board. 

• Work closely with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the good governance of the charity and that organisational performance is structured and monitored using well articulated, achievable KPIs. 

• Support Trustees in being an effective Board, ensuring it comprises the appropriate range of skills and has access to training and development opportunities.

• Deploy Trustees’ skills and networks to identify and activate opportunities for commercial development and business growth.

• Be an inclusive leader, collaborate with and empower the SMT, and motivate, support and develop the wider staff team. 

Advocacy, profile and civic engagement 

• Promote the profile and reputation of Dance City locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

• Initiate and enable constructive debate about dance and its development by artists, policy-makers and the public, and to promote Dance City’s role in dance leadership.

• Articulate the transformative potential of dance in enabling social cohesion, the centrality of its place in the wider creative industries sector, and its potential, through civic partnerships and collaboration, to make a major contribution to the economy and well being of the city and region. 

• Ensure Dance City is part of local, regional, national  and international arts discussions and networks, is represented at key events and viewed as crucial to decision-making processes in the dance and wider cultural and social sectors.

• Be the face of Dance City in professional and community networks and at events in the northeast; communicate and advocate for its plans and ambitions to the widest range of people including politicians, the media, funders, artists, audiences and the public.

Creative 

• Shape, co-create and communicate the creative vision for Dance City. 

• Oversee the development and delivery of a creative programme which appeals to a wide range of audiences, demonstrates excellence, and sets out to grow appetite and demand for diverse dance experiences. 

• Build and manage sustainable commercial and funding partnerships which will enhance the profile of the programme and enable the commissioning, programming and presentation of dance within and beyond Dance City.

• Oversee the evaluation of the programme, to ensure quality, to engage in reflection and implement learning with colleagues.

• Maintain an overview of the local and national dance ecology in order to inform advocacy and planning.

Brand, commercial performance and income 

• Oversee the design and delivery of effective marketing and communications strategies that are developed and effectively delivered, to retain existing and grow new audiences for dance in the northeast and to promote the Dance City brand.

• Be proactive in the development and delivery of effective fundraising and income generation strategies for Dance City, to ensure that contributed income grows and is diversified, and to develop commercial opportunities enabled by the building and programme. 

• Play an active role in identifying and approaching prospective donors, sponsors and funding partners.

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with existing and potential supporters and to lead on key public funding and donor relationships.

Finance and operations  

• Be accountable for the financial operation of the organisation, ensuring budgets are set and monitored, appropriate financial policies and procedures are in place, compliance with appropriate legal and fiscal frameworks is followed, and that there is timely reporting to the relevant funders and authorities.

• Oversee and ensure the smooth and efficient management of Dance City’s facilities and infrastructure.

• Ensure Dance City remains a visible champion of environmental responsibility.

• Ensure the organisation is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including health and safety, and that all staff are trained appropriately. 

People and culture 

• Set the tone for and model the organisational culture, be an inclusive and consultative leader, championing employee wellbeing and engagement. 

• Ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place for recruitment, induction, appraisals and the professional development of staff.

• Ensure the organisation upholds its principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, valuing the wellbeing of all colleagues.

Person specification  

Essential  

• Has held a senior role in a cultural venue or within an organisation with a substantial arts programme or partnerships; is well networked in and beyond the cultural and creative industries. 

• Understanding of the current landscape and eco-system in the cultural sector and awareness of local/national political initiatives that will impact on - and create opportunities for - Dance City and its partner organisations.

• Understanding of the legal, fiscal, social and political context within which the arts operate, and the contribution they make to health, education, social cohesion and civic pride.

• Understanding of the needs of dance as an art form and a commitment to best practice and to promoting inclusion and equality of opportunity.

• An inclusive leader with experience of overseeing organisational transformation and managing change. 

• A track record in relationship building, working in partnership with a range of funders, agencies and organisations, and of successful fundraising and income generation from a range of sources. 

• A strong advocate and compelling storyteller, able to network, represent the organisation, communicate its vision and inspire confidence among existing and potential peers and stakeholders.

• Strong financial literacy and skills, knowledge of charity governance and relevant financial policies and procedures; experience of senior financial accountability.

• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Directors, understanding of best practice in governance and organisational development.

• A commitment to living in the region, able to travel nationally and internationally, and to work some evenings and weekends where there is reasonable expectation to attend events.

Desirable 

• Experience of running a building with a diverse and impactful arts programme. 

• An extensive network in the cultural sector. 

• Experience of significant national/international cultural partnership projects. 

• Experience of managing significant public investment programmes such as ACE NPO, Creative Scotland RFO or equivalent.

Equity, diversity and inclusion 

At Dance City we believe that voices and perspectives from a range of backgrounds and lived experiences make our understanding of the world and the arts more relevant.

We believe that difference is our strength.

Therefore we actively encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and those that are under-represented in our city and region and in dance leadership. 

Are you passionate about data and how it can inform decision-making? We’re looking for an Audience and Insights Manager, who loves connecting people with a range of shows and activities that will enrich their lives.

This new role will be instrumental in ensuring our audiences are placed at the centre of our planning, by using their information effectively to share with them the Mercury’s vision, communicate our work, and promote our organisational values.

If you are creative in your approach to build, engage and retain audiences, we want to hear from you!

To find out more, download the candidate pack.

Applications close at 10:00am on Tuesday 19 May 2026. Interviews will take place on Tuesday 2 June 2026.

Apply Now

The National Youth Orchestra is the UK’s leading organisation championing orchestral music as a powerful agent for teenage development.

We are a welcoming community where every teenager can play their part in shaping their world through extraordinary music. Every year we welcome over 10,000 teenagers of all backgrounds and different levels of musical ability into a national community to play and share orchestral music.

We are looking for a Head of NYO Schools to lead the development of NYO’s overall programme offer for schools, with an initial focus on Catalyst, our flagship new schools programme. This is a key strategic role within NYO’s Engagement team and will play a major part in shaping a scalable model that supports schools to create vibrant musical communities for teenagers. You will lead the design and delivery of activity including school residencies, teacher CPD, creative resources, alumni training and celebratory events, while helping shape the future direction of NYO’s wider schools offer.

This role will suit someone who combines strong programme development and leadership experience with excellent relationship-building skills, a thorough understanding of the mainstream secondary education sector, and a commitment to inclusion, youth-centred practice and safeguarding. You will be motivated by creating meaningful opportunities for young people, teachers and early career alumni through music, and able to translate strategic vision into high-quality delivery. 

At the National Youth Orchestra, you'll work as part of a supportive, friendly and adventurous staff team. Learning and personal growth are intrinsic to every role. Our offices near Holborn in central London are a hive of activity, a space for collaboration and ideas. Hybrid working is standard for most roles, with a flexible and supportive culture. NYO offers a season ticket loan scheme, cycle-to-work scheme, health cash plan, retail and entertainment discounts, and a 24/7 counselling and support helpline.

Deadline for applications: Monday 11 May 2026 at 10am.

We’re looking for an experienced, proactive fundraiser who can think strategically and deliver hands-on. Someone confident writing bids, building partnerships and spotting opportunities for growth.

This is a key role at a pivotal moment for AudioActive, offering the chance to build on strong foundations and shape a diverse, sustainable income model and power a team that is dedicated to empowering young people through music.

What you’ll do

• Lead and deliver AudioActive’s fundraising and development strategy
• Grow income across trusts & foundations, tenders, contracts and partnerships
• Write high-quality bids, proposals and pitches
• Develop new business partnerships aligned with our mission
• Build strong relationships with funders, partners and supporters
• Work closely with the CEO and team to align income with programmes
• Track performance, manage targets and identify new opportunities

Are you a commercially minded fundraiser, passionate about garnering support for a cause you love? Come and join #TeamMercury as our new Head of Development and Partnerships.

We are looking for someone with a strong track record in identifying and securing funding, building commercial partnerships, and nurturing meaningful strategic relationships that drive sustainable growth.

The successful candidate is creative, highly collaborative and forward-thinking. You will bring experience across a range of fundraising approaches and the ability to make the most of a mix of commercial streams. We would love to hear from you!

To find out more, download the candidate pack.

Applications close at 10am on Monday 18 May 2026. First round of interviews will take place on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

The Senior Fundraising Executive (Grants) leads on bid-writing and relationship building with grantmakers (Trusts/Foundations/Public). The candidate will be a key player in the Grants team alongside the Director of Development (Grants/Major Gifts) and Development Officer. Create has seen its fundraising increase significantly in recent years, as it fulfils its ambitious plans to double its reach by its 25th anniversary in 2028. The Grants team is responsible for securing over 50% of the charity’s income, managing an extensive portfolio of T/F/Public funders, approaching a well-researched pipeline of potential funders, and researching prospects. The successful candidate will share Create’s commitment to the transformative power of the creative arts within community settings, with exceptional written and verbal communication, research, organisational and IT skills, and meticulous attention to detail.

Join our team to help us build sustainable community-led social action in North Kirklees!

This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for someone looking to play a key role in a small but influential national charity building a positive legacy for the late Jo Cox MP.

We are looking for someone with experience of working on community building and organising initiatives, who is skilled in engaging and working collaboratively with diverse communities, with a self-motivated, action-oriented approach, and a genuine commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Through this role you will play a key part in continuing Jo Cox’s legacy over the years to come.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Community Action Worker will frequently travel across Batley, Dewsbury and Heckmondwike to support local people and groups to develop community-led social action initiatives that bring people together across lines of difference. Working in line with asset-based community development and community organising approaches, you will support local groups to start, build, grow and sustain projects that strengthen neighbourliness and bring people together around shared interests. 

You will also work as part of a local interdisciplinary team to develop arts-based activity through a More in Common Creative Collective. This would celebrate difference and challenge narratives of division through creative community work. You will also support the delivery of facilitated dialogue through the Let’s Talk programme, helping communities address division through conversation.

ABOUT YOU

We’re looking for someone who is deeply committed to building community power and supporting community-led change. You will bring experience in asset-based community development, community organising, movement building, or closely related approaches, which might include mentoring and coaching. Alongside this you will have a relational way of working that starts with listening, trust-building, and identifying the strengths, interests and leadership that already exist within communities. 

You will be self-motivated and comfortable working on your own initiative, bringing organisational skills needed to contribute to planning, delivery of events, learning and reporting. Experience of partnership working, supporting community events or social action, and contributing to funded programmes would all be valuable. Furthermore, you will be confident working across culture, faith, ethnicity, class and other lines of difference. You will have good interpersonal skills and will be able to build relationships quickly while approaching this work with humility, ambition, curiosity and respect. 

Above all, you will bring values that align strongly with The Jo Cox Foundation’s vision and Jo’s ‘more in common’ ethos. This will be reflected in your belief in the strengths of communities, and your commitment to bringing people together across difference.

ABOUT THE JO COX FOUNDATION’S WORK IN WEST YORKSHIRE

The Jo Cox Foundation was established in 2016 by the friends and family of the late Jo Cox MP. The Foundation exists to make positive change on issues that Jo was passionate about. Just as she did, we believe in working together effectively with individuals and organisations that share the belief that we have more in common than that which divides us.

We build stronger communities and encourage more respectful politics. To date, our campaigns and initiatives have addressed a broad range of issues including tackling loneliness, bridging divides, and reducing abuse and intimidation in public life. Jo Cox’s career took her around the world, yet her sense of belonging and her identity were always firmly rooted in West Yorkshire.

Too often our politics and society emphasises our differences rather than our commonality. We believe that helping people to recognise that commonality allows us to feel more connected, build empathy and increase trust. It also builds understanding of the stark inequalities that many groups face within our society and strengthens the collective will to take action. Though we cannot address the root cause of all inequalities, we commit to championing change and advocating for action.

The Jo Cox Foundation continues to maintain its roots in West Yorkshire. We aim to generate and support community-led action - undertaken with local knowledge, credibility and evidence - to drive change alongside communities and to share success across national networks.

“I am Batley and Spen born and bred, and I could not be prouder of that. I am proud that I was made in Yorkshire and I am proud of the things we make in Yorkshire. Britain should be proud of that, too.”

Jo Cox, Maiden Speech 2015

ABOUT BRIDGING & BELONGING 

We have completed Stage 1 of Bridging & Belonging, which involved a series of local listening events. What we heard was clear: people in North Kirklees want more chances to connect with one another and to shape what happens in their neighbourhoods, using their own ideas, skills and experience to make a positive difference.

We are now moving into Stage 2, a four-year project funded through the National Lottery Community Fund’s Reaching Communities programme. This phase will strengthen neighbourliness, reduce division, and support community-led action that builds stronger, more connected communities. It is rooted in asset-based community development and creative, participatory community organising, with a focus on helping local people start, grow and sustain social action that brings people together across lines of difference.

Bridging & Belonging is already established, you will join a project with strong foundations, trusted relationships and a clear direction. Working alongside colleagues, residents and local partners, you will help shape the next phase of the project while keeping local people at the heart of its priorities and activities.

Over the coming years, the work will support community-led action that strengthens neighbourliness and hyper-local connection, creates new ways for people to connect across communities, and develops projects built around shared interests, shared places and shared concerns. It will also back activity that celebrates local strengths, makes space for difference, and builds a stronger sense of belonging.

Alongside this, you will also:

• help develop a More in Common Creative Collective with residents and partners, using arts and creativity to challenge division and share local stories;

• support the development of a Community of Practice that brings together staff, partners and community members to share learning and build relationships; and

• support Let’s Talk, a facilitated conversation series that helps people address tensions and divisions through careful, relational dialogue.

WORKING AT THE JO COX FOUNDATION

One of our core values at The Jo Cox Foundation is empathy, and we work hard to apply this to our relationships with our staff as well within the work that we do.

As a remote organisation, we recognise the challenges that this brings, so we carefully consider how we can build a team culture where everyone feels accepted and included. We do this through a combination of frequent team days (with a mixture of remote and in-person days) and through regular and ongoing ways for the team to connect, both for work and to socialise.

In our most recent staff survey:

• 100% of staff felt proud to work at The Jo Cox Foundation

• 100% felt that The Jo Cox Foundation actively supports their wellbeing

• 100% thought that the team at The Jo Cox Foundation works in a supportive and collaborative way

We will transform Benton End into a vibrant, accessible and sustainable arts and learning centre, reimagining the radical spirit of Sir Cedric Morris and Arthur Lett-Haines’s art school and garden legacy.

This commission covers the Development Phase of a Heritage Fund-supported capital project and the period during which the Delivery Phase application is being assessed. The Fundraiser will collaborate closely with the client team, project manager and stakeholders throughout.

The redevelopment of Benton End seeks to:  

• Conserve and restore the Grade II* listed house and associated gardens structures  
• Create inclusive and accessible facilities for learning, exhibitions, and residencies  
• Respect and celebrate the site’s layered heritage, including its significance in queer history  
• Embed sustainability and environmental responsibility in all design choices  
• Enable operational and financial sustainability through a mixed-use business model

The fundraising consultant will be responsible for raising a total of £2.7m by December 2027. This comprises £1.8m in gifts or pledges in order to match-fund The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Delivery Phase grant of £2.65m; and the remainder to support additional output costs at Benton End.

The consultant will be expected to lead on the following areas:

• Review the Fundraising process for the Development Phase of the project in partnership with the client team
• Review the existing Fundraising Strategy submitted to the Heritage Fund (see tender pack)
• Re-develop, update and deliver a comprehensive Fundraising Strategy to achieve the necessary match funding for the Delivery Phase of the project including phased targets, pipeline planning, and approach methodology
• Identify potential funding sources, including charitable trusts and foundations, major individual donors, philanthropic legacy leads (including those with interests in art, horticulture, LGBTQIA+ causes, and regional heritage), corporate supporters and in-kind contributors
• Cross check all potential funding sources and potential prospects with the client team, paying particular attention to the Garden Museum’s other fundraising programmes, existing funders and live/upcoming campaigns
• Produce a detailed fundraising plan with goals, milestones, specific targets and details of which funding sources will be approached at each stage of the campaign
• Support cultivation of key prospects, including advising on pitches, proposals, and relationship management and leading these where appropriate
• Develop a 'Case for Support' and campaign materials tailored to different audiences
• Work with the client team to ensure fundraising aligns with Heritage Fund Delivery Phase submission (August 2027), Activity and Interpretation Plans and capital delivery timelines and cash flow needs
• Provide reports on all fundraising activity and data collected, in formats that are compatible with the client team’s CRM
• Support the implementation of the live campaign: tracking targets, overseeing donor communications, and managing asks

The selected consultant should have:

• A strong track record of raising capital funds in the arts, culture, or heritage sector
• Experience working with national funders (e.g. trusts/foundations, High Net Worth Individuals, and corporates)
• Knowledge of Heritage Fund processes and expectations
• Experience in creating compelling cases for support, particularly for multidisciplinary projects (art, heritage, gardens, LGBTQIA+ history)
• Sensitivity to inclusive fundraising and community engagement
• Strategic thinking with a collaborative and proactive working style

The budget for the fundraising consultant's fee is a maximum of £36,000 excl VAT, to include all travel and expenses and with an expectation that the consultant will be on site regularly at Benton End, Hadleigh, Suffolk.

This consultant will report into the Project Manager, but will also work very closely with the Garden Museum Development Director and the Benton End Board.

This opportunity is made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.

Application requirements:

Please supply the following by 5pm on Tuesday 5 May 2026:

• Proven examples of recent, similar work at an equivalent level of project value and heritage significance
• CV demonstrating relevant experience and examples of previous projects – if more than one consultant then CVs and highlighted experience of each team member
• Fee proposal 
• Outline methodology and approach
• At least two references from comparable heritage or arts capital project
• Confirmation of insurance (minimum £ 1million Professional Indemnity and £1 million Public Liability insurance, and £1 million Employers Liability cover (if applicable), or ability and willingness to obtain)

Clarifying questions should be sent by 5pm on Tuesday 21 April 2026.