At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead community projects that make a real difference in local areas.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Eastbourne and Lewes Councils.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and the chance to create positive change.
- Other info: Opportunity for hybrid working and collaboration with diverse partners.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on communities while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and community engagement is essential.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Hours: 37 hours per week, part-time applications will also be considered
Location: Eastbourne Borough and Lewes District Councils
Contract: Fixed-term maternity cover (9 months)
Closing Date: 31/08/2026 at 12:00
Interviews: w/c 07/09/2026
Help deliver projects that make a real difference to local communities. We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Project Manager to join our Communities and Strategic Partnerships team on a maternity cover basis. This is an exciting opportunity to lead and deliver a range of community-led projects and initiatives that support residents, strengthen communities and contribute to the council's priorities across Eastbourne and Lewes.
Working closely with community groups, voluntary organisations, partners and colleagues across the councils, you will manage projects from concept through to delivery. You will help secure external funding, oversee project budgets and outcomes, and ensure projects deliver meaningful benefits for local people. This role offers the opportunity to work on a varied portfolio of initiatives, build strong partnerships and support innovative approaches to community development and engagement.
The role will include:
- Leading and managing community-led projects across Eastbourne and Lewes.
- Developing and delivering project plans, budgets, timelines and risk management arrangements.
- Identifying and securing external funding opportunities and preparing funding applications.
- Working collaboratively with community groups and stakeholders to co-design and deliver projects.
- Monitoring project performance, budgets and outcomes.
- Producing reports, updates and evaluation information for a range of audiences.
- Building and maintaining effective relationships with residents, community organisations, elected members and partner agencies.
- Supporting service development and continuous improvement within the Communities and Strategic Partnerships team.
About You
We are looking for someone who is passionate about community development and has experience of managing projects, partnerships and or funding programmes. You will have:
- Experience of successfully delivering projects and programmes.
- Experience of developing funding bids and managing externally funded initiatives.
- Strong organisational and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Experience working with community groups, voluntary organisations or public sector partners.
- Experience managing budgets and monitoring outcomes.
- The ability to work independently whilst managing multiple priorities.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to delivery.
Experience of working within local government, regeneration, housing, community development or the voluntary sector would be advantageous.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to play a leading role in projects that improve lives and create positive change across Eastbourne and Lewes. You will work with a wide range of partners and communities, help secure investment into local projects and contribute to initiatives that support thriving, resilient neighbourhoods. The role offers hybrid working, flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities and the chance to work within a supportive and ambitious team.
Project Manager - Community Initiatives - Maternity Cover in Eastbourne employer: Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils
Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, making them an excellent employer for those passionate about community development. With a focus on employee growth and engagement, the councils offer unique opportunities to lead impactful projects that enhance local neighbourhoods while enjoying a flexible hybrid work model in the vibrant town of Eastbourne. Join a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the community and benefit from a supportive culture that values your contributions.
Contact Details:
Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager - Community Initiatives - Maternity Cover in Eastbourne
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
Dive into some local volunteering opportunities! Nonprofits often look for temp workers who have a connection to the community they serve. By getting involved, you not only gain experience but also make valuable contacts in the sector.
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✨Attend Sector-Specific Events
Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
✨Don’t Forget Online Applications!
When you spot a temporary role at Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager - Community Initiatives - Maternity Cover in Eastbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
References from the Sector:Including references from previous roles in the nonprofit world can really bolster your application. If you've worked on similar social-impact projects before, ask those colleagues or supervisors if they'd be willing to vouch for your skills. This adds credibility and shows you're trusted in the sector, which can be a big plus for Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils.
Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Project Manager - Community Initiatives - Maternity Cover position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
