Thurso Community Development Trust (TCDT) is seeking an organised, collaborative and adaptable Operations Lead to support the effective day-to-day running of the Trust.

This role is ideal for someone with experience in operations, HR or organisational management, preferably within a small organisation, charity or community setting. You will be comfortable managing a varied workload, building positive relationships and ensuring the practical and operational foundations are in place to enable staff, volunteers and projects to succeed.

Working closely with the Development Manager, you will play a key role in delivering the Trust’s strategic priorities, supporting an expanding programme of community-led projects, including the Trust’s greenhouses and community garden, and helping ensure the organisation continues to grow and thrive. You will also deputise for the Development Manager when required.

As Operations Lead, you will

• Ensure the Trust’s operational, practical and logistical systems are in place to support staff, volunteers and projects.
• Support the Development Manager in delivering the Trust’s strategic priorities and business objectives.
• Deputise for the Development Manager during periods of leave or absence.
• Share responsibility for the day-to-day management and supervision of staff and volunteers.
• Lead volunteer recruitment, engagement and relationship management.
• Support the delivery and coordination of the Trust’s greenhouse and community garden projects, including assisting with practical activities and volunteer coordination where required.
• Build strong relationships with community groups, partner organisations and stakeholders.
• Help ensure the Trust’s projects and community activities are delivered efficiently, safely and effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Development Manager in the delivery of Thurso Community Development Trust’s work programme and strategic objectives.
• Deputise for the Development Manager when required, ensuring continuity of operations. (The Development Manager and Operations Lead will coordinate annual leave to maintain appropriate cover.)
• Support the preparation and submission of funding applications and other funding-related documentation.
• Share line management responsibilities for Trust staff with the Development Manager.
• Oversee the recruitment, induction and onboarding of new staff.
• Identify staff training and development needs and coordinate appropriate opportunities.
• Act as the first point of contact between volunteers and the Board of Trustees.
• Recruit, coordinate, support and retain volunteers across the Trust’s activities.
• Assist with the day-to-day operation of the Trust’s greenhouse and community garden projects, supporting volunteers and helping deliver practical growing activities as required.
• Support community engagement initiatives and represent the Trust at meetings, events and partnership activities.
• Supervise Trust public activities and events as required, including occasional evening and weekend work, with Time Off in Lieu provided.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the post as agreed with the Development Manager.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience in operations, office, HR or organisational management.
• Experience of supervising or supporting staff and/or volunteers.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and cloud-based systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• A flexible, practical and collaborative approach.
• An interest in community development and supporting local initiatives.

Desirable

• Experience of working in the voluntary, charity or community sector.
• Experience of writing or supporting funding applications.
• Knowledge of volunteer management and community engagement.
• An interest in community growing, gardening or environmental projects.
• Experience of working with Boards of Trustees or within a governance environment.

Additional Information

This post is offered on a part-time basis (21 hours per week). From time to time, and subject to specific project funding, there may be agreed periods of full-time working (37 hours per week).

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.

To request an application pack, please email Alex@thursocdt.co.uk