Shaftesbury Town Council is seeking to appoint a Project Management contractor to lead the delivery of the Mampitts Community Hub, an ambitious and community-driven development set to open in Spring/Summer 2026.
This is a fixed-term contract position. The appointed contractor will play a central role in driving the project from design development through construction and operational readiness, working in close collaboration with the Town Council, Advisory Committee, project partners, and other stakeholders.
About the Project
The Mampitts Community Hub will provide multipurpose indoor and outdoor space, including community activity rooms, a café, landscaped areas, and inclusive, accessible facilities for all ages. The project is underpinned by Shaftesbury’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and long-term social value.
Role Overview
The Project Manager will oversee all phases of the Hub’s development, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to a high standard. The role involves managing key stakeholder relationships, supporting procurement, facilitating operational planning, and ensuring compliance with sustainability and funding requirements.
Key Responsibilities
The Project Manager will be responsible for developing and maintaining a comprehensive project plan that clearly outlines all milestones from the construction phase through to the operational launch of the Mampitts Community Hub. This includes coordinating the work of architects, contractors, and consultants to ensure project milestones are met efficiently and effectively.
The role involves leading tendering and procurement processes in close collaboration and agreement with Shaftesbury Town Council. Acting as a central liaison, the Project Manager will maintain consistent communication between the Council, the Mampitts Advisory Committee, local organisations, and wider community groups. The successful candidate will also be expected to manage the project budget and financial reporting requirements, including oversight of Section 106 (S106) funding and contributions from external fundraising efforts.
Operational readiness will be a key focus of this role, including supporting the selection and onboarding of a café operator, overseeing branding, and coordinating equipment procurement. The Project Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a robust risk management framework, as well as monitoring progress against key performance indicators (KPIs). In addition, the role requires delivery of targeted community engagement initiatives and the fostering of partnerships with local stakeholders. The successful candidate will also oversee the handover process, launch planning, and all communications with stakeholders throughout the final stages of project delivery.
Key Deliverables
The Project Manager will be expected to produce and maintain a detailed project plan with defined timelines and milestones. They will be responsible for ensuring the successful procurement and onboarding of all necessary contractors, the café operator, and key community stakeholders. The overall objective is the delivery of a fully operational Mampitts Community Hub by Spring/Summer 2026.
Regular progress reports will be required for Shaftesbury Town Council and other stakeholders, along with formal reporting to Dorset Council in accordance with the conditions tied to S106 funding. The role also includes the development of a clear and practical risk management framework to address both operational and financial challenges. A further deliverable is the successful execution of community engagement initiatives, with a focus on building sustainable partnerships with local organisations. Finally, the Project Manager will be expected to support the development of a long-term operational model for the Hub, incorporating revenue generation strategies and principles of financial sustainability.
Key Skills
Applicants should demonstrate a proven track record of managing community infrastructure or capital projects of a similar scale. The role requires strong communication, leadership, and organisational abilities. Candidates must have experience with budget management, financial accountability, and an understanding of the requirements of public procurement and planning processes.
Familiarity with stakeholder reporting and compliance is essential. A sound knowledge of sustainability principles and inclusive design is also important, as is experience in effective community consultation and engagement strategies.
To express your interest and receive more information please contact the council office by the 11th May 2025.