Job Purpose
To lead the transition of the Lockerbie Old School Project from the final stages of capital delivery into a fully operational community facility. You will coordinate the operational setup, lead on staff recruitment and internal systems, support the Board to develop strong governance and compliance frameworks, and ensure all elements are in place for a successful public launch.
You will work with and through the Board of Trustees, funders, community members and delivery partners to manage the hub, deliver an inclusive programme, and position the charity for long-term success.
Key Responsibilities
Capital Completion & Operational Launch
Work with the Board to oversee the fit-out and completion of the capital project, including signage, furnishings, IT, and practical preparations for public use.
Liaise with contractors and LOS solicitors during construction handover and final compliance checks.
Ensure Health & Safety, insurance, fire safety and accessibility procedures are in place and up to date.
Work with key funders and board members to ensure all grant claims are accurate, timely, and compliant.
Premises Management & Set-Up
Work with the Board to develop booking systems, hire rates and tenancy agreements for SME and community use.
Support general day-to-day premises operations including building security, maintenance schedules, and equipment oversight.
Staff & Volunteer Coordination
Support the Board with staff recruitment and induction in line with the Business Plan staffing framework.
Develop training plans, line management systems and team structures.
Work with volunteers and delivery partners to extend community capacity and maintain an inclusive workplace.
Board Development & Governance
Support the Trustees to evolve into a Development Trust with employer and landlord responsibilities.
Assist the Board in the development of a governance framework including key policies (e.g. EDI, GDPR, Health & Safety, volunteer, environmental).
Support risk management planning and help set up subcommittees (e.g. finance, governance).
Communications, Community Engagement & Events
Lead the delivery of a communications and visibility plan including social media, website, press releases and signage.
Organise a programme of community events and ensure community voices shape the project as it develops.
Represent the organisation at external meetings, conferences and stakeholder events.
Funding, Finance & Strategic Planning
Assist the Finance Subcommittee and Treasurer in monitoring budgets, using Xero to track and report on project and operational spend.
Work with the Board to complete funding applications and explore long-term income generation (e.g. future grants, trading income).
Contribute to the ongoing review and delivery of the LOS Business Plan, including programming and financial projections.
Person Specification
We know that the right person for this role may not meet every single one of the listed requirements. If you’re passionate about community-led regeneration and think this role is a fit, we’d love to hear from you.
Essential
Proven project management experience, ideally involving community or regeneration projects
Ability to lead operations and support an organisation through change
Experience managing staff and/or volunteers
Understanding of community development principles and inclusive programming
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Experience using financial software (e.g. Xero), Microsoft Office and collaborative tools
Strong planning, organisational and time management skills
Experience working with or supporting governance or boards
Confidence liaising with a range of stakeholders
Flexible approach to working, including evenings/weekends when needed
Commitment to values of inclusion, sustainability, and participation
Desirable
Knowledge of community structures in Dumfries & Galloway or the DG11 area
Experience coordinating capital builds or premises set-up
Familiarity with social enterprise models or income-generating community hubs
Experience of writing or supporting funding applications
A qualification in community development or related discipline
Driving licence and access to a vehicle
Salary: £43,260
Reporting To: Designated Board Member
Reviewed: February 2025
Contract: Fixed-term – 12 months (initially), funded by The Holywood Trust and Investing in Communities. (It is our strong intention to continue the role beyond the first year through a mix of trading income and additional grant funding.)
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (evening and weekend work required)
Applications close at Midnight on the 15th May 2025
Interviews will be held the week commencing 19th May 2025
