Jobs and volunteering opportunities

Freelance project manager

Mainspring Arts is seeking a Project Manager to join the team in a developmental role, managing the organisation's programmes and contributing to its creative and strategic development.


We are looking to recruit a part-time freelance Project Manager to work closely with our Director in an exciting new position.

We are aiming to secure funding to create a new Co-Director post in the near future, and see this as a developmental role that could potentially evolve into a Co-Directorship when the funding is in place.


What we're looking for

We're looking for someone who:

  • has experience of managing and/or delivering creative projects

  • has a good knowledge and understanding of neurodiversity and ND accessibility

  • is committed to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion

  • can work sensitively with ND artists

  • is interested in championing new creative work

  • is proactive and positive

  • has experience of managing budgets

  • can collaborate and engage with a range of stakeholders

  • is open to developing skills in creative and strategic planning

It would be beneficial if the Project Manager is based in or near Lancaster, however, we're also open to the role being remote. If based nearby, the Project Manager will have the option to work from our shared office space in Lancaster.


The role

Working closely with the Director, the Project Manager will have the following responsibilities:

  • Manage the day-to-day running of a range of projects

  • Work closely with freelance practitioners and participants to deliver projects

  • Support and encourage ND artists throughout their engagement with Mainspring Arts

  • Monitor and manage project budgets

  • Contribute to ensuring that accessibility is at the heart of all projects

  • Assist with implementing the organisation's marketing strategy

  • Assist with writing and updating organisational policies

  • Contribute to conversations on the organisations' strategic direction, in collaboration with the Director

  • Contribute to cultivating equity, diversity and inclusion for everyone within the organisation and its community

  • Contribute to developing an innovative and ambitious creative programme in line with the organisation's vision, mission, aims and objectives

  • Contribute to nurturing partnerships that expand the organisation's work

  • Attend board meetings and support the Director in reporting on the company's activities


Who we are

Founded in 2015, Mainspring Arts works across artforms to support neurodivergent artists and celebrate neurodivergent creativity.

We work closely with neurodivergent (ND) creatives, supporting them to develop their artistic practice. We provide platforms for ND creatives to make and share work, and opportunities to meet and collaborate.

We are committed to ensuring ND people are represented at all levels within our organisation. All our programmes are designed and led by ND practitioners, and co-created with ND participants. We ensure that at least 50% of our trustees are ND.

We aim to increase representation of ND people in the arts, to combat stereotypes surrounding neurodivergence and what ND art can be, and to cultivate an environment in which ND creatives can thrive.

In 2022 we moved our base to Lancaster, and are currently growing our programme of local activity alongside our national work. We have a small freelance team made up of a Director and Development Manager, and a pool of freelance practitioners who lead and deliver our programmes.


Terms and conditions

Contract type: Freelance, 7 months (October 2023 - May 2024). We have funding in place for this period - however, our aim is that the role will continue and develop beyond this, potentially evolving into a Co-Director role (subject to funding and suitability).

Hours: An average of 1 day per week (7.5 hours), with flexibility to work around other commitments.

Place of work: Remote, or at our shared office in Lancaster.

Fee: £140 per day (the potential future Co-Director post would be paid at a higher rate), with access support available.


How to apply

To apply, please email hello@mainspringarts.org.uk with:

  • your CV

  • a cover letter explaining your interest in the role, and how you think you meet the criteria

You are welcome to submit your CV and cover letter in other ways (e.g. video or audio) or request this information in different formats.

Application deadline: 10am on Monday 4th September

Please email hello@mainspringarts.org.uk if you would like to discuss how we can make this process more accessible, or if you need help with the application.


Removing barriers

We are committed to ensuring neurodivergent people are represented at all levels within our organisation, as well as removing barriers to employment for all disabled people.

We therefore strongly encourage applications from neurodivergent and/or disabled people.

If you choose to let us know that you identify as neurodivergent and/or disabled, and you meet the criteria for the post, you will automatically be invited to interview.

We welcome and encourage applications from people who identify as working class, global majority*, migrant, or LGBTQ+.

*This includes people of Black Caribbean, Black African, South Asian, East Asian, South East Asian, Middle Eastern, Arab, Latinx, Jewish, Romany and Irish Traveller heritage.

We understand that you may choose not to disclose that you are ND and/or disabled. We appoint on merit, but understand that the playing field isn’t always level. If you would like to discuss any barriers to accessing the opportunity, just get in touch.


Timeline

  • Monday 4th September, 10am: Application deadline

  • 4th - 15th September: Shortlisting

  • 15th September: Shortlisted applicants invited to interview; unsuccessful applicants notified of outcome

  • 20th - 25th September: Interviews

  • 29th September: All interview candidates notified of outcome

  • October: Role begins (date agreed with successful candidate)