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TCDT

Company

TCDT

Thurso Community Development Trust formed in January 2018 with the purpose of making Thurso a better place to live, work and visit for all through community-led sustainable development.

Location

Thurso Community Development Trust, Rotterdam Street, Thurso, KW14 8AA

Hours

37.5

Type

Fixed Term

Duration

18 months

Salary

£32-35k pa based on experience

Development Manager

Job Posted:

12th August 2026

Applications Close:

1st September 2026

As the Development Manager you will be responsible for overseeing a variety of community-based projects. You will work closely with staff, stakeholders, volunteers and the wider community to ensure that projects align with the Trust’s strategic goals and deliver lasting benefits for Thurso. The role will involve everything from strategic thinking, project planning and funding applications to team leadership and community engagement.

Current projects include: The Greenhouses and Community Garden, the Harbour Toilets, Community Christmas Dinner, a monthly Lunch Club for Older Adults, summer family fun days, community markets and the Men’s Shed.

Key Responsibilities

As Development Manager, you will:

  • Deliver the key outcomes identified in the 2025 Strategy
  • Lead a portfolio of existing community projects and identify new projects from initiation through to completion.
  • Lead in the generation of income from a wide range of funding sources
  • Develop and submit applications to potential funders to support new and ongoing projects
  • Line manage the Operations Lead and other staff as appropriate.
  • Working with the Ops Lead, overseeing and managing staff and volunteers ensuring clear communication and effective teamwork.
  • Determine staff and volunteer personal training requirements by developing and implementing training plans to meet these needs
  • Plan and implement regular staff and volunteer meetings to ensure discussion on all relevant Trust matters
  • Ensure that all projects are effectively monitored and evaluated, ensuring outcomes are met on time and within budget.
  • Work with the Operations Lead to develop and strengthen the role of the Trust in the community by maintaining strong relationships with community groups, local stakeholders, funders, partners and local authority
  • Prepare reports and updates for Board of Trustees and Funders
  • Work closely with the Board of Trustees to align projects and new developments with the overall strategy of the Trust.

Skills & Experience

  • Proven experience in Community Development or leading small business or charity teams.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and build collaborative relationships with both staff and regular volunteers
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence others to support goals and objectives of the Trust
  • Experience of completing successful funding applications
  • Experience with fundraising, budget management and financial oversight
  • A strong understanding of community development challenges and opportunities in rural or remote areas.
  • Knowledge and previous experience of the third sector is highly desirable.

Additional Information

The role includes occasional evening and weekend working to support Trust activities and community events. Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) will be provided where appropriate.

How to apply

To request an application pack or for more information, email: chairperson@thursocdt.co.uk Applications should be submitted by September 1st.