At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead social value initiatives and ensure diversity and inclusion in major rail projects.
- Company: Join a leading consultancy on one of the UK's largest rail infrastructure programmes.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive day rate, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to engage with senior stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on social value and drive change in UK infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Degree in Social Sciences or related field; experience in social value strategies.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Social Value Manager (Diversity & Inclusion)
Major Rail Infrastructure Programme
Initial 4-Month Contract | Hybrid Working | North East / North West England
Are you passionate about creating meaningful social impact through major infrastructure projects?
We are seeking an experienced Social Value Manager with a strong background in Diversity & Inclusion to join a nationally recognised programme delivering one of the UK's largest rail infrastructure investments.
This is an initial 4-month contract, with a strong possibility of extension. The role offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement, supporting majority remote working with occasional travel to project locations across the North East and North West of England. Candidates based within these regions will be particularly well suited due to the travel requirements.
The Opportunity
You will be seconded into the project team of a leading UK rail organisation, working as part of a specialist consultancy renowned for delivering programme management, project management, sustainability and advisory services across some of the country's most complex infrastructure and built environment projects.
Working directly alongside senior client stakeholders, you'll play a key role in ensuring social value, equality and inclusion remain at the heart of project delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of project Social Value Plans, agreeing measurable outcomes and ensuring successful delivery.
- Deliver socioeconomic assessments, including Equality Impact Assessments and Diversity Impact Assessments.
- Support the ongoing development and implementation of the client's Sustainability Strategy.
- Provide specialist social value consultancy, helping to maximise social outcomes across the programme.
- Work collaboratively with contractors, suppliers and delivery partners to develop social value KPIs, reporting frameworks and practical guidance.
- Coordinate regular sustainability and social value reporting, including Power BI dashboards and client reporting systems.
- Contribute social value evidence to Business Case development and the client's annual Social Benefit Report.
- Attend project and client meetings, providing updates on progress, opportunities, risks and key performance indicators.
- Build strong relationships with client stakeholders, identifying opportunities to further enhance social value outcomes.
- Support bid submissions and participate in client presentations where required.
- Assist in developing and promoting the consultancy's social value capability, including marketing materials, case studies and thought leadership.
- Deliver training and awareness sessions on social value and inclusive delivery to project teams and stakeholders.
- Identify best practice, produce case studies and help share lessons learned across projects to drive continuous improvement.
- Support wider sustainability and social value initiatives across the business as required.
About You
We're looking for someone who combines technical knowledge with the ability to influence, engage and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
You'll ideally have:
- A degree in Social Sciences, Geography or a related discipline.
- Membership of, or progression towards Fellowship of, the Institute of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (ICRS) or an equivalent professional body.
- Demonstrable experience delivering Social Value strategies on major infrastructure, construction or public sector programmes.
- Strong knowledge of Diversity & Inclusion, Equality Impact Assessments and wider socioeconomic evaluation.
- Experience working collaboratively with clients, contractors and supply chains.
- Excellent report writing, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Experience using Power BI or similar reporting platforms would be highly advantageous.
- The ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced project environment.
What's on Offer
- Initial 4-month contract with strong likelihood of extension.
- Hybrid working with excellent flexibility.
- Opportunity to work on one of the UK's most significant rail infrastructure programmes.
- Exposure to senior client stakeholders and nationally important projects.
- Collaborative, supportive and purpose-driven project environment.
- Competitive day rate.
If you're passionate about delivering lasting social impact, driving inclusion and helping shape the future of UK infrastructure, we'd love to hear from you.
Social Value Manager - Diversity & Inclusion in Manchester employer: People Group
At People Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and the opportunity to work on high-profile projects like the £700M HS2 scheme, ensuring that our team members are at the forefront of MEP design in rail and aviation. Located in the UK, we provide a supportive environment where your expertise can thrive, making a meaningful impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Value Manager - Diversity & Inclusion in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to People Group, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Value Manager - Diversity & Inclusion in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of People Group. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at People Group. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at People Group
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with People Group.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Social Value Manager - Diversity & Inclusion role at People Group, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show People Group that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.