Social and Economic Impact Assessment Consultant Ulster Orchestra

Ulster Orchestra (UO) is seeking proposals from suitably experienced consultants or organisations to undertake an independent assessment of its social and economic impact.

As a leading cultural organisation in Northern Ireland, UO delivers a wide range of activity including orchestral performances and learning and community engagement initiatives such as its flagship Crescendo programme. We are increasingly required to evidence our impact to funders, partners, and stakeholders, and wish to develop a robust and credible account of the organisation’s overall value.

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to:

• Provide a clear and evidence-based assessment of Ulster Orchestra’s social and economic contribution
• Develop compelling and accessible outputs to support advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and funding applications
• Establish a framework to support ongoing impact measurement and reporting

Scope

The consultant will be expected to assess both social and economic impact and present an integrated view of the organisation’s overall value.

The consultant will be expected to deliver:

• A comprehensive written report detailing approach, methodology, findings, and conclusions
• A concise summary report suitable for external stakeholders and funders
• Clear headline metrics and key messages
• Practical recommendations for embedding ongoing impact measurement
• Presentation to the Senior Management Team and/or Board
• Communications-ready outputs (e.g. summary slides, infographics)

Timeframe & Location

We anticipate the contract will commence in October 2026, and the expected completion date is end of January 2027.

This role is fully remote, although attendance in-person in Belfast may be required for some meetings

Proposals

Proposals should include:

• A detailed methodology for undertaking the work, addressing the project’s aims and objectives in no more than 2 A4 pages.
• A timeline outlining project delivery with key milestones.
• An up-to-date CV highlighting relevant experience including:
  • Proven experience delivering social and/or economic impact assessments
  • Familiarity with arts, cultural, or non-profit sectors (desirable)
  • Experience using recognised methodologies (e.g. SROI, evaluation frameworks)
• A breakdown of costs, including number of days, daily rate etc.

Closing Date: Monday 5th October 2026.

UO welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. Within this context we particularly encourage applications from people with disabilities, LGBTQ+, Black, Asian and other global majority backgrounds, and those from backgrounds of social and economic deprivation.

About the Organisation

FOUNDED IN 1966, THE ULSTER ORCHESTRA HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF MUSICAL LIFE IN NORTHERN IRELAND FOR 60 YEARS, WITH THE ORCHESTRA’S FULL-TIME MUSICIANS FORMING THE REGION’S ONLY PROFESSIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.

With a mission to enrich the lives of people living in Northern Ireland, those visiting, and those who encounter it through international touring and regular radio and TV broadcasts with both BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Radio 3, the Orchestra strives for excellence in all it undertakes, be it regular concert performances, learning and community engagement programmes, or creative collaborations across the arts.

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