Engagement and Development Officer – Heckington Windmill

Job Title: Engagement & Development Officer
Salary: £26,000
Hours: 30 hours per week
Term: 3 years fixed term
Location: Heckington Windmill, Hale Road, Heckington NG34 9JW
Closing date: 12:00 am 16 January 2023

Heckington Windmill Trust (HWT) manage and operate a unique Grade 1 Listed working 8-sailed windmill, a vibrant attraction where visitors can explore the themes of food, natural power and the history on this award-winning heritage site. The site includes a Visitor Centre & Museum, Bakehouse, Tea Room and Brewery. This thriving and dynamic attraction is a registered charity and an accredited museum, run by a diverse group of enthusiastic volunteers. Our volunteers contribute their time and skills to provide a professionally executed, fun, interesting and educational visitor experience for all.

About the role 

This position is funded, over a three year period, by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. HWT is seeking a person who has proven experience of visitor/audience engagement and development. They will be required to create and implement an Audience Development Plan that will target the widest possible audience, bringing additional revenue and visitors to Heckington Windmill through a series of events and activities. Central to the role, you will work with and support a dedicated team of existing volunteers, building on their skills, and developing their roles further. Working with Volunteer Team leaders you will be responsible for;

  • Co-ordinating the day to day operation of the windmill site and its activities
  • Ensuring that the site is run effectively, efficiently and safely
  • Recruiting and training new volunteers from in and around the local community
  • Marketing and promotion of the windmill, its activities and events.

Hours

The role is for 30 hours per week over 4 days. You will manage your own working pattern which should include at least 3 days when the site is open to visitors in the high season (to include at least 1 day at the weekend); and at least two days when the site is open to visitors in the low season.

  • High season opening days: during the School Summer Holidays (until 5th September) Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
  • Low season opening days (after 6th September) – Friday, Saturday & Sunday

This is primarily a hands-on operational role but some remote working can be arranged by agreement. There may be a requirement to attend some evening meetings and one-off special events.

There is the flexibility to take one weekend a month off, working the necessary hours during the week instead. This is a 3 year fixed term contract, with the possibility of extending subject to funding.

About you 

  • You’re are a highly motivated experienced events organiser, confident in planning and delivering activities within a budget and, in addition, have strong administration and computer skills
  • Having extensive experience of the heritage and cultural sector, visitor services and audience development, you’ll be looking for an opportunity to further develop a flourishing visitor attraction and enterprise
  • You’ll have a strong business acumen, able to problem solve, be reactive, and forward thinking
  • Have great interpersonal skills that you can adapt to different situations: co-ordinate, engage, inspire, support and empathise with staff, volunteers and the public
  • You’re within easy traveling distance of Heckington Windmill or are able to commute
  • You’re able to schedule your hours to fit with the demands of the role.

Click here for the full job description>> 

How to apply 

Application by Covering Letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in this role and CV to Heckington Windmill Trust enquiries@heckingtonwindmill.org.uk by 16 January 2023.