At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead outreach and support for start-up businesses in Oldham's libraries.
- Company: Join a community-focused organisation dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, gym discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping local businesses thrive and grow.
- Qualifications: Experience in client relations, training, and performance reporting required.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 34434 £ per year.
Communities Heritage, Libraries and Arts SME Officer Ref: 001491
Contract: Fixed Term (31 March 2027)
Salary: £31,537 - £34,434 per annum (Grade 5)
Hours: 36.66 per week
Location: Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL
Closing Date: Thursday 28 May 2026
Interview Date: TBC.
Role Overview
Build-A-Business in GM Libraries is a business support programme led by the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Manchester to support start‑up businesses and new entrepreneurs to develop the insight, skills and confidence they need to start and grow successful businesses. The postholder will plan and coordinate all the project activities across Oldham’s library service.
Key Responsibilities
- Marketing and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) outreach activities
- Organising monthly workshops
- Project delivery
- Record‑keeping and administration
- Producing reports and carrying out evaluation in line with the project funding requirements
Key Requirements
- Experience of working with individual clients and organisations to establish and maintain effective professional relationships.
- Experience of organising and running training courses.
- Experience of developing performance measures and reporting to stakeholders.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave which increases after 5 and 10 years’ service.
- The option to purchase additional annual leave.
- An attractive LGPS benefit pension scheme with the option to make shared cost additional voluntary contributions.
- Discounted gym membership with Oldham Active.
- Staff discount scheme for shopping, entertainment, eating‑out, eating‑in, travel, motoring and more.
- Salary sacrifice scheme for home and electronics and Cycle to Work.
- Wellbeing support, including a Mental Health First Aider network and an Employment Assistance Programme that provides 24 hours access to advice and support.
- Staff recognition and celebration events.
- Peer support groups.
Inclusive Recruitment
We work closely with employees to help them work at their best, including making adjustments such as flexible working, describing available working patterns, providing equipment or making changes to the workplace. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and therefore expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Data and Privacy
For details of how we use your data please see our privacy notice.
Important Information
Please note that should a vacancy that has been released for internal or external recruitment be deemed suitable for a current employee at risk of redundancy, it can be pulled back at any point, up to the post being formally offered to a candidate who is not at risk of redundancy.
Additional Information
Unfortunately, at this time we are not able to offer sponsorship. If you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme please indicate this within the ‘About You’ or ‘Supporting Statement’ section of your application. If you’re an applicant with disabilities and have previously been in or currently in care, a carer, someone who has served in the Armed Forces, or you’ve participated in the GM Elevate Programme, and you meet the essential criteria of the role, you are guaranteed to reach the first stage of assessment under our Guaranteed Assessment Scheme.
SME Outreach & Programs Lead (Libraries) employer: Oldham Council
As an employer, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. Located in the heart of Oldham, our team enjoys generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, access to a comprehensive pension scheme, and opportunities for flexible working arrangements, all while contributing to meaningful community projects that empower local entrepreneurs. Join us to be part of a dynamic organisation that values collaboration, innovation, and the development of skills that make a real difference in people's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SME Outreach & Programs Lead (Libraries)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local events, workshops, or even online webinars related to libraries and SMEs. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your experience in organising training courses and project delivery. This will give potential employers a clear idea of what you can bring to the table, especially for a role like SME Outreach & Programs Lead.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply – engage! When you find a job that excites you, reach out to the hiring manager or team on LinkedIn. Ask questions about the role or express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and can help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Use our website to apply! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application shine. Plus, applying directly through us means you’ll be in the loop for any updates or tips we might have for candidates. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace SME Outreach & Programs Lead (Libraries)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of SME Outreach & Programs Lead. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on your experience with clients and organisations. We want to see how you've built effective professional relationships and organised training courses, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your achievements and skills. Clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about us and the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oldham Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Build-A-Business programme and its impact on local SMEs. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the role, especially around marketing and outreach activities. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that highlight your experience in organising training courses and maintaining professional relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the library's current outreach initiatives or how success is measured for the project. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. The interviewers want to see who you are beyond your qualifications. Be authentic, and share your enthusiasm for supporting local businesses and communities.
