Project Manager - Community Initiatives - Maternity Cover

Project Manager - Community Initiatives - Maternity Cover

Hours: 37 hours per week, part-time applications will also be considered

Location: Eastbourne Borough and Lewes District Councils

Contract: Fixed-term maternity cover (9 months)

Closing Date: 31/08/2026 at 12:00

Interviews: w/c07/09/2026

Help deliver projects that make a real difference to local communities

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Project Manager to join our Communities and Strategic Partnerships team on a maternity cover basis.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead and deliver a range of community-led projects and initiatives that support residents, strengthen communities and contribute to the council's priorities across Eastbourne and Lewes.

Working closely with community groups, voluntary organisations, partners and colleagues across the councils, you will manage projects from concept through to delivery. You will help secure external funding, oversee project budgets and outcomes, and ensure projects deliver meaningful benefits for local people.

This role offers the opportunity to work on a varied portfolio of initiatives, build strong partnerships and support innovative approaches to community development and engagement.

The role will include:

• Leading and managing community-led projects across Eastbourne and Lewes.
• Developing and delivering project plans, budgets, timelines and risk management arrangements.
• Identifying and securing external funding opportunities and preparing funding applications.
• Working collaboratively with community groups and stakeholders to co-design and deliver projects.
• Monitoring project performance, budgets and outcomes.
• Producing reports, updates and evaluation information for a range of audiences.
• Building and maintaining effective relationships with residents, community organisations, elected members and partner agencies.
• Supporting service development and continuous improvement within the Communities and Strategic Partnerships team.

About You

We are looking for someone who is passionate about community development and has experience of managing projects, partnerships and or funding programmes.

You will have:

• Experience of successfully delivering projects and programmes.
• Experience of developing funding bids and managing externally funded initiatives.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience working with community groups, voluntary organisations or public sector partners.
• Experience managing budgets and monitoring outcomes.
• The ability to work independently whilst managing multiple priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to delivery.

Experience of working within local government, regeneration, housing, community development or the voluntary sector would be advantageous.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to play a leading role in projects that improve lives and create positive change across Eastbourne and Lewes.

You will work with a wide range of partners and communities, help secure investment into local projects and contribute to initiatives that support thriving, resilient neighbourhoods.

The role offers hybrid working, flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities and the chance to work within a supportive and ambitious team.

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