At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead community development initiatives and manage a small grants programme to improve wellbeing.
- Company: Join Pathfinder West Sussex, a people-led organisation dedicated to inspiring change.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, a pension scheme, and access to learning and development resources.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while addressing health inequalities in your community.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in partnership development are essential.
The predicted salary is between 36729 - 36729 € per year.
Location: West Sussex
Salary: £36,729
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 25th May 2026
Interview Date: W/C 1st June 2026
About Pathfinder West Sussex
Pathfinder West Sussex is a partnership of mental health, homelessness and employment support organisations working together to improve people’s wellbeing across the county.
About the Role
This is a new and exciting role in which you will be developing and leading the Community Development workstream within the Pathfinder West Sussex Mental Health Support Service. Its purpose is to address health inequalities and you will be working with specialist VCSE partners to deliver tailored interventions and services via a small grants scheme. It is a fantastic opportunity to help reach people in need and make a real difference.
Key Responsibilities
- Establish and manage the small grants programme associated with the workstream.
- Develop operational and strategic partnerships with VCSE organisations, local authorities, NHS partners and community leaders; act as a key point of liaison between communities and Mental Health Support Services.
- Represent the service at locality networks and strategic meetings; cultivate relationships that enhance pathways, referrals and community outcomes.
- Identify funding opportunities; contribute to high‑quality bids and tenders; manage small project budgets and resources effectively.
- Embed co‑production and lived experience throughout; support volunteers and peer leaders; provide training and capacity‑building for community groups.
Person Specification
To be successful in the role you will need to have great communication skills and be committed to the values of BHT Sussex. Some of the key skills and experience you will need to bring with you include:
- Experience of establishing, developing and maintaining effective working relationships with voluntary and statutory partners.
- Knowledge of relevant procurement legislation and best practice.
- Well‑developed networking, promoting, presentation and negotiating skills.
- Experience of effective financial/business management including the preparation and management of budgets.
- Experience in contract management within the charity or public sector.
Benefits
- 5.5% stakeholder pension scheme and life assurance scheme.
- Medical cash plan with BHSF.
- Access to BHT Sussex’s Learning & Development platform.
- Free and confidential employee assistance helpline for both personal and work‑related concerns.
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Free new starter 28‑day Network Saver Brighton bus pass.
- Generous holiday allowance starting at 27 days per annum pro rata, rising 1 day for each year of service to a maximum of 32 days pro rata.
- The opportunity to participate in well‑being and fundraising activities throughout the year.
BHT Sussex is an equal opportunities employer using a fair and open recruitment process that fully complies with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. We are committed to encouraging equality, equity, inclusion, and diversity within the workplace. As an employer we are committed to promoting and supporting our people’s social, physical and psychological health at work. Please let us know if you require any special arrangements or reasonable adjustments if called for interview. BHT Sussex welcomes applications from individuals with lived experience. BHT Sussex reserves the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applicants for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. An Enhanced with Adults DBS Check (Disclosure and Barring Service) is required on all successful applicants as a condition of employment for this post.
Community Development Manager in Billingshurst employer: BHT Sussex
Pathfinder West Sussex is an exceptional employer dedicated to inspiring change and improving community wellbeing across Sussex. With a strong focus on employee development, generous benefits including a stakeholder pension scheme, and a commitment to equality and diversity, we foster a supportive work culture that empowers our staff to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve. Join us in this rewarding role as a Community Development Manager and be part of a collaborative team that values your contributions and promotes personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Development Manager in Billingshurst
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the community development space. Attend local events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show up and shine! When you land an interview, make sure to prepare thoroughly. Research the organisation, understand their mission, and think about how your skills can help them achieve their goals. Bring your A-game and let your passion for community development show!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the Community Development Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you along the way. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. So, get clicking and let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Community Development Manager in Billingshurst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Community Development Manager role. We want to see how you can inspire change and make a real difference in Sussex!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since great communication is key for this position, don’t hold back! Use clear and engaging language in your application to demonstrate your ability to connect with various stakeholders and communities.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Be sure to mention any experience you have with establishing partnerships or managing budgets. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so show us what you’ve got!
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the vacancy early if we get enough applicants, so get your application in through our website as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at BHT Sussex
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the communities you'll be working with. Familiarise yourself with local issues, key players, and existing support services. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Networking Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience in building relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with voluntary and statutory partners in the past. Highlighting your networking prowess will demonstrate that you can effectively represent the service and cultivate essential partnerships.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since managing budgets is a key responsibility, come prepared to talk about your experience with financial management. Share specific instances where you've prepared budgets or managed funding, and be ready to discuss how you ensure financial accountability in projects.
✨Emphasise Co-Production Experience
Given the role's focus on co-production and lived experience, think of examples where you've involved community members in decision-making processes. Discuss how you've supported volunteers and peer leaders, as this will highlight your alignment with the organisation's values and mission.
