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- Tasks: Lead an exciting arts project, ensuring diverse voices shape local experiences.
- Company: Join a passionate charity aiming for a rural arts revolution in Staffordshire.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative project that enhances community engagement in the arts.
- Qualifications: Strong project management skills and a passion for positive change.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Main base Leek with travel and partial homeworking. The Staffordshire Moorlands’ Creative People and Places Consortium is seeking an Operations Manager for an exciting new participatory arts project in a stunning rural area of north Staffordshire including part of the Peak District National Park.
OUTSIDE has the ambition to bring about a rural arts revolution in our isolated rural settlements, villages and market towns of Biddulph, Cheadle and Leek, changing local experiences and increasing participation levels. It has an indicative budget of £1.2M with up to £1M already secured from 2026-2029.
The post-holder will work alongside and support the Creative Director to ensure that the ambitions of the project are met and that diverse voices from across the Staffordshire Moorlands are at the heart of decision making. You will be responsible for delivering the efficient operation of the OUTSIDE project, including financial management, governance, reporting and evaluation.
As Operations Manager you will be passionate about working with others to bring about positive change. You will be pro-active and outcomes-focused; and have strong capabilities in attracting, building and maintaining effective working relationships at all levels. You will be well organised, have a track record in good financial management and project management, business planning, HR and supporting and developing individuals. You will also have an understanding of evaluation and experience of using evaluation tools.
Award-winning local charity Support Staffordshire is the Outside consortium lead. Support Staffordshire is working hard to become more inclusive of the communities we serve, and as such is especially keen to hear from applicants with protected characteristics and lived experience, that bring knowledge, skills and experience.
For more information or to arrange an informal chat please contact Katie Aldous, OUTSIDE Director on katie.aldous@outsidearts.org.
In order to be considered for this position, you will need to complete an Application Form and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Monitoring Form. These can be found in the link below, along with the job description and person specification.
The person appointed will require:
- Proof of right to work in the UK
- Two satisfactory references
Closing date: 9am Friday 27th February 2026.
Interviews: Wednesday 4th March 2026 in Leek, Staffordshire (Interview travel expenses can be paid on completion of an expenses claim form).
Operations Manager in Leek employer: Outside
Contact Detail:
Outside Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Leek
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the arts and operations sectors, especially those connected to the OUTSIDE project. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for participatory arts shine through. Share your ideas on how to engage communities and make a real impact in rural areas.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the consortium and its goals. Understand their mission to increase participation in the arts and think about how your skills in financial management and project delivery can contribute to that vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in the Staffordshire Moorlands.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Leek
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what they're looking for, so highlight those connections in your application.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We recommend personalising your cover letter and CV to reflect the specific requirements of the Operations Manager role. Show us why you're the perfect fit for this exciting project!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outside
✨Know the Project Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the OUTSIDE project and its goals. Understand the vision of bringing a rural arts revolution to the Staffordshire Moorlands. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you align your answers with the project's objectives.
✨Showcase Your Financial Savvy
As an Operations Manager, financial management is key. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budgets and financial reporting. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed finances in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the £1.2M budget effectively.
✨Highlight Your Relationship-Building Skills
This role requires strong capabilities in attracting and maintaining effective working relationships. Think of specific instances where you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams or stakeholders. Sharing these stories will illustrate your ability to foster inclusivity and engagement within the community.
✨Prepare for Evaluation Discussions
Understanding evaluation tools is crucial for this position. Brush up on your knowledge of evaluation methods and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past projects. This will show that you're outcomes-focused and committed to measuring the impact of your work.