Purpose of the Post
The purpose of the Development Officer is to:
• Oversee the delivery and development of all projects and activity identified as key priorities by the community.
• Provide information, support and assistance to individuals and community organisations across the Kirkconnel and Kelloholm Community.
• Build new and strengthen social connections in the community and at the same time develop the confidence and capacity of people involved.
• Help develop new and innovative approaches to encourage residents to become involved in their local area.
• Work with a range of local, regional and national organisations in Scotland to support and deliver strategic objectives, policies and outcomes for Scotland.
Responsibilities of the post holder:
The main responsibility of the postholder is to accelerate change across the community of Kirkconnel and Kelloholm through the delivery of a programme of engagement and development that builds on both new and existing skills, relationships and other assets, available within the community.
Key Tasks include:
• Supporting KKDT Board to secure funding and deliver on key projects and objectives.
• Assisting the community to progress Priority Actions within the Place Plan for Kirkconnel and Kelloholm.
• Engaging fully and positively with local residents and groups – supporting local stakeholders and building relationships and alliances.
• Providing capacity building training and seeking to transfer knowledge and skills.
• Contributing to best practice training courses, presentations, events and models of delivery.
• Providing a lasting legacy for the communities by supporting local residents to become more resilient and effective in addressing community needs in the future.
• Developing effective communication and raise awareness of KKDT’ s purposes with relevant agencies in the voluntary, community and statutory sectors that contribute to their overall development.
• Maintaining accurate records of work undertaken and reporting regularly to KKDT Board and funders, as required.
• Contributing to the promotion and marketing of KKDT.
• Contributing to local, regional and national outcomes and priorities.
• Carrying out further duties appropriate to the post in the furtherance of KKDT’s aims, objectives, policies and priorities.
Person Specification
Skills, Knowledge and Experience
Essential:
• A knowledge and understanding of the issues facing disadvantaged communities.
• An understanding of partnership working.
• A good knowledge of national and regional policies, strategies and priorities.
• An ability to, and experience of securing funding.
• Experience of community development/engagement activity.
• Awareness of the community action planning process.
• Good written and verbal skills.
• The ability to lead and work as part of a team, as well as on your own.
• The ability to manage time effectively, work to deadlines and work outside normal hours when necessary.
• Conversant and competent with Microsoft Office
• A full driving licence and use of a reliable vehicle.
Desirable:
• An understanding of community participation and of developing and delivering a range of products and services
• Experience of the challenges faced by voluntary organisations.
• An ability to enthuse, motivate and inspire others to contribute effectively to the regeneration of their community.
• Strong negotiation skills and an ability to manage conflict.
For more information about the post or to access an application form, contact: eilidh@kkdt.org.uk
