At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead community partnerships and boost local engagement at BEAT.
- Company: BEAT is dedicated to belonging, empowering, and thriving in the community.
- Benefits: Part-time role with flexible hours and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to asset-based community development.
- Why this job: Shape community connections and enhance participation while building a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Experience in partnership development and community engagement is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
BEAT - Belonging, Empowering & Thriving
Hours: 21
Contract: Fixed term (subject to funding)
Location: BEAT, Hawksworth Wood, Leeds (with outreach)
Reports to: CEO
Purpose of the role: To lead BEAT’s partnership development across Kirkstall and the wider city, strengthening relationships with the VCSE sector, commissioners and local businesses in order to increase collaboration, commissioning readiness and long‑term sustainability — while ensuring this external work translates into consistent, inclusive community participation at BEAT.
In practical terms, this role exists to:
- Build and leverage partnerships that strengthen BEAT’s reach, influence and sustainability
- Increase regular community participation (“butts on seats”) as evidence of relevance, trust and value
- Position BEAT as a neighbourhood asset and credible delivery partner
This role is grounded in BEAT’s commitment to Asset‑Based Community Development (ABCD). It builds on the strengths, skills, relationships and leadership already present within Hawksworth Wood, rather than focusing on deficits or need. Partnership development is rooted in the same ethos: presenting BEAT as a community asset with deep local trust and insight to contribute to wider systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build and maintain relationships with VCSE organisations, consortia and infrastructure bodies across Kirkstall and Leeds
- Identify opportunities for:
- co‑delivery
- sub‑contracting
- consortia membership
- commissioning and collaborative bids
- Position BEAT as a trusted neighbourhood delivery partner, rooted in strong community participation
- Increase BEAT’s readiness for partnership‑based and commissioned work
- Represent BEAT within neighbourhood and city‑wide networks
- Link BEAT into thematic partnerships (e.g. health, families, youth, prevention, wellbeing)
- Support joint funding bids and shared delivery models that value local community insight
- Engage local businesses and the local economy
- Build relationships with local employers and businesses
- Explore opportunities for:
- sponsorship
- in‑kind support
- staff volunteering
- shared community use of BEAT’s space
- Strengthen BEAT’s role within the local economic ecosystem
- Grow consistent community participation
- Build on existing community participation and momentum
- Translate partnerships and referrals into regular, predictable use of BEAT’s space
- Support practical solutions that enable people and groups to attend more consistently
- Reconnect with individuals and organisations who have previously engaged and have skills or interest to re‑contribute
- Turn participation and partnerships into sustainability
- Support increased and consistent use of BEAT’s building
- Contribute partnership intelligence, learning and evidence to funding and commissioning bids
- Capture insight on what drives effective engagement and collaboration locally
Outputs and impact:
- New and strengthened VCSE, commissioner and business partnerships
- Evidence of joint delivery, collaboration and commissioning readiness
- Higher and more consistent community participation at BEAT
- Greater diversity of people and groups connected through existing networks
- Improved long‑term organisational sustainability
Requirements:
- Significant experience in partnership development, community engagement or place‑based working
- Strong track record of relationship‑building across grassroots, VCSE and statutory sectors
- Deep understanding of asset‑based, community‑led approaches
- Ability to operate confidently across community and strategic/system spaces
- Experience of collaborative working, co‑production or partnership delivery
- Strong communication skills and ability to represent an organisation externally
- Commitment to inclusive, community‑led practice aligned with BEAT’s values
How success will be measured:
- Strength and quality of partnerships formed
- Increased and more consistent use of BEAT’s space
- Clear evidence of collaboration, co‑delivery or commissioning pathways
- Community participation that reflects local strengths, relationships and leadership
- Contribution to BEAT’s sustainability and future funding readiness
Values fit: This role requires someone who believes that strong communities are built by recognising and connecting existing assets, relationships and leadership — and that community participation grows through trust, presence and partnership, not promotion alone.
Community Engagement & Partnerships Lead (Part-time) in Leeds employer: Volunteer Centre
BEAT is an exceptional employer that prioritises community engagement and partnership development, fostering a collaborative work culture in the heart of Hawksworth Wood, Leeds. With a commitment to Asset-Based Community Development, employees are empowered to build meaningful relationships within the local community, enhancing their professional growth while contributing to the sustainability of the organisation. The part-time role offers flexibility and the opportunity to make a tangible impact, making BEAT a rewarding place for those passionate about community-led initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Engagement & Partnerships Lead (Part-time) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Get networking! Attend local events and meet-ups related to community engagement and partnerships. This is your chance to connect with potential collaborators and showcase your passion for building relationships.
✨Tip Number 2
Leverage social media to your advantage. Share your insights on community development and engage with local organisations online. It’s a great way to position yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to organisations you admire. A simple email or message can open doors to partnerships and collaborations that could benefit BEAT and the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Engagement & Partnerships Lead (Part-time) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Community Engagement:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for community engagement shine through. We want to see how much you care about building relationships and making a difference in the community. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to this cause!
Tailor Your Application to BEAT's Values:Make sure your application reflects BEAT’s values of belonging, empowering, and thriving. We’re looking for someone who understands asset-based community development, so weave in examples of how you've applied this approach in your past work or projects.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see how you fit the role and what you can bring to BEAT.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about BEAT and what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer Centre
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, dive deep into the community BEAT serves. Understand the local dynamics, key players in the VCSE sector, and any recent initiatives. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your commitment to community engagement and show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully built partnerships in the past. Whether it’s through collaborative projects or engaging local businesses, be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes. This will highlight your ability to strengthen BEAT’s reach and influence.
✨Emphasise Asset-Based Approaches
Since this role is grounded in Asset-Based Community Development, be sure to articulate your understanding of this philosophy. Share experiences where you’ve focused on community strengths rather than deficits, and how that led to successful engagement and participation.
✨Prepare Questions About Sustainability
Think about the long-term sustainability of community projects and partnerships. Prepare insightful questions about BEAT’s current strategies and future plans. This shows your forward-thinking mindset and genuine interest in contributing to the organisation's mission.
