Programme Lead (Path Protection) - hybrid in Chipping Ongar

The Ramblers are looking for a proactive Programme Lead to help us open and protect paths, so more people can enjoy the benefits of walking outdoors. This role will lead our Path Protection work, to help people understand their rights, take local action to protect paths and improve the places where they live. A key part of the role is working with and supporting a network of knowledgeable volunteers across Great Britain, to take practical action in their communities. You'll focus on creating programmes that make it easier for more people, especially those with the most barriers and least access, to get involved, speak up for their local paths, and take action that leads to real improvements.

Context and purpose of role:

At Ramblers we work to empower the public and volunteers to take action to protect paths and access, whether claiming lost rights of way, pursuing resolutions to path problems, or objecting to changes to the definitive map. As a member of the Programmes team, the Programme Lead (Path Protection) will be responsible for the successful development and delivery of the programme across GB.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead on the design, development and operational delivery of the Path Protection programme across GB.
• Create operational delivery plans to identify milestones, monitor risks, resolve issues and manage resource requirements.
• Design and develop resources and processes to support programme implementation.
• Be responsible for managing a budget in line with programme goals and objectives.
• Be responsible for evaluation and reporting, to ensure the programme meets KPIs and delivers measurable impact.
• Manage new and existing strategic partnerships with partner organisations and those working to improve access and reduce barriers to becoming active outdoors.
• Train and support volunteers and promote the programme more widely.
• Provide advice and guidance to the public on path protection issues.
• Engage diverse audiences from communities facing additional barriers to getting outdoors, to senior stakeholders including funders and other strategic external partners.
• Directly deliver Path Protection events to support the continued development and co-production of the programme.
• Work closely with Nations Directors, Community Development Officers and the Fundraising team to secure the support required to sustain and grow the programme.
• Ensure robust risk management systems are in place to ensure the safety of participants.
• Ensure programme compliance with relevant policies and regulations.
• Review the programme annually to identify lessons learned or areas for development to drive continuous improvement.

Other:

• Work collaboratively as a member of the Programmes team, to share learning and develop innovative practice in programme design and development.
• Engage and proactively develop excellent working relationships across the organisation.
• Undertake such other duties as may be reasonably required of the post.

The person:

Knowledge and Experience:

• Programme management experience including responsibility for planning, budgeting, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Experience providing advice to a variety of stakeholders and managing casework.
• Experience recruiting and managing partners and volunteers.
• Experience designing and delivering a training programme working with participants to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Experience of successfully working with fundraising colleagues to secure funding to sustain and scale a programme.
• Knowledge of the potential barriers to participation in outdoor recreation.
• Experience managing relationships with strategic stakeholders.
• An understanding of rights of way law and practice.

Skills and Leadership:

• Ability to develop, introduce and champion new ways of working as an expert on path protection initiatives.
• Strong verbal, written and digital communication skills with an ability to convey information clearly to a range of different audiences.
• Ability to work with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build strong relationships.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to achieve common goals.
• Ability to use initiative and to be flexible and adaptable in approach.
• Ability to analyse information thoroughly and make sound decisions and recommendations.

Personal Attributes:

• Interest in walking and a commitment to the principles of inclusion and enabling everyone to feel welcome in the outdoors.
• Able to engage diverse audiences, including community partners and senior decision makers.
• Flexible and able to develop strong, collaborative team relationships.
• Entrepreneurial approach to developing and growing innovative projects.
• Flexible and resilient with the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
• Willingness to travel and to spend evenings and weekends away from home as required.

Values and Behaviours:

Our values are the core principles that guide us daily in our work and our membership of the Ramblers. We all share the passion that walking is for everyone and by living our shared values we can ensure the Ramblers is an organisation to be proud of. Our values will earn trust for the Ramblers brand which will allow us to open up a world of walking opportunities for even more people.

• Inclusive: We make everyone feel welcome and part of the Ramblers community. We make sure we all feel respected and accepted and know our contributions make a difference in achieving our mission.
• Inspiring: We strive to inspire people through the way we act and the things we say. We channel our passion and ambition so others are moved to help us achieve our mission.
• Empowering: We empower and encourage each other to make a positive contribution to our teams and the Ramblers. We do all we can to make sure everyone has the ability, and feels confident, to take action.
• Responsible: We take responsibility for ourselves and those around us seriously, by always acting in a safe and supportive way. We care about the environment and make sure we do what we say we will do.