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- Tasks: Lead community projects that create real change and improve lives in Reading and Oxford.
- Company: Join Peabody, a non-profit dedicated to community development and social equity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and the chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of community-led initiatives and shape local investment strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in community development and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 44557 - 44557 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Community Investment Lead to drive meaningful change across two of our priority neighbourhoods. Based in Dee Park, Reading, with regional coordination at Blackbird Leys, Oxford, you’ll design and deliver high-impact, place-based programmes that reflect the needs and aspirations of local people.
You’ll work closely with residents, local partners, and colleagues to co-create solutions that improve health, wellbeing, youth opportunities, and cultural access. From running weekly children’s programmes to establishing arts hubs and green space strategies, your work will directly impact people’s lives.
This is a hands-on, outward-facing role. One day you might be hosting a community event: the next, collaborating with local authorities or preparing a funding bid. You’ll manage budgets (up to £1m), oversee delivery, evaluate impact, and help shape our future community investment strategy.
You’ll be working at the heart of the communities we serve—connecting insight, people and ideas to create stronger, healthier, and more resilient neighbourhoods. You’ll also play a key role in evaluation—collecting data, capturing stories, and using learning to shape what comes next. You’ll ensure our local investment plans reflect resident priorities and the values of our business and charitable foundation.
You’re a people person who thrives on making real impact. You’ll enjoy working in and with communities, building strong relationships with residents, delivery partners, and your colleagues across the business. If you’re ready to make a difference—and to shape the future of community investment in Reading and Oxford—we’d love to hear from you.
This is a two-year fixed term contract.
To be successful in this role, you are:
- experienced in community development, youth, wellbeing or regeneration
- experienced in writing funding bids, community programmes and strategic plans
- a confident communicator, both verbally and written and can adapt your style to suit different audiences
- passionate about community-led change and social equity
- comfortable with data, budgets and strategic planning
- able to work through challenging situations and find solutions
This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
If you have any questions about this role, please email victoria.wilson1@peabody.org.uk.
Stage one interviews will be taking place on 8th and 9th September 2025 via Teams. Stage two interviews will take place in person on 15th September 2025.
Community Investment Lead employer: Peabody
Contact Detail:
Peabody Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Investment Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Before your interview, spend some time researching Dee Park and Blackbird Leys. Understanding the local needs and aspirations will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling skills! You’ll need to share impactful stories about your past experiences in community development. Think of specific examples where you’ve made a real change, and be ready to discuss how those experiences can translate into this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Peabody through LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips on the company culture and what the hiring team is really looking for in a Community Investment Lead.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making an impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Investment Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for community-led change shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in people's lives and how that aligns with our mission at Peabody.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in community development, youth programmes, or wellbeing initiatives. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they relate to the role of Community Investment Lead.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Peabody
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, dive deep into the communities you'll be working with. Understand their needs, challenges, and aspirations. This will not only show your commitment but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples of your past work in community development or similar roles. Highlight any successful programmes you've designed or delivered, especially those that had a measurable impact on health, wellbeing, or youth opportunities.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a confident communicator, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Tailor your communication style to suit different audiences, as this role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, from residents to local authorities.
✨Prepare for Data Discussions
Since the role involves managing budgets and evaluating impact, brush up on your data skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions or improve community programmes in the past.