Project Development Coordinator

Contract: 12-month fixed term contract

Hours: 35 hours per week worked flexibly to cover evening & weekend meetings

About us

B4RN (Broadband for the Rural North) is a unique organisation working closely with communities across the UK to bring hyperfast, full-fibre broadband to rural areas. As a Community Benefit Society, driven by innovation and a strong sense of purpose, we work hand-in-hand with local volunteers and stakeholders to deliver a service that’s built by the community, for the community. Joining B4RN means becoming part of a dedicated team making a real difference in people's lives, all whilst thriving in a supportive and collaborative environment.

About the Role
As a Project Development Coordinator, you will play a pivotal role in the expansion of B4RN’s network, particularly with the exciting B4RN North East Project. This project extends our reach from our heartlands in Lancashire and Cumbria into Northumberland and County Durham, helping more rural communities access the life-changing benefits of full-fibre broadband.

You’ll be the primary point of contact for community-led broadband projects during the development phase – guiding them from initial interest through to full readiness for build. This includes everything from securing funding and wayleaves to fostering strong relationships with local volunteers, landowners, and councils. Your work will ensure each project is not only robust and sustainable but also financially viable.

This is a remote role, with some travel required to our Head Office in Melling, Lancashire. However, you will spend the majority of your time out on the road, engaging directly with communities, volunteers, and stakeholders across the North Cumbria/North East region.

Key Responsibilities

1. Community Engagement – Identify, inspire and support volunteer groups passionate about improving broadband access in their areas
2. Project Coordination – Oversee project development from initial interest to pre-build readiness, ensuring wayleaves, funding, and sign-ups are secured
3. Build strong relationships – Collaborate with landowners, key stakeholders, and local councils to gain critical support for projects
4. Promoting B4RN’s Mission – Represent B4RN at public meetings, deliver presentations, and increase awareness of the transformative benefits of hyperfast broadband
5. Providing hands-on support – Work closely with volunteers to troubleshoot challenges and keep projects on track, ensuring a smooth transition into the build phase

What We’re Looking For

1. An understanding of rural communities and the unique challenges they face regarding connectivity
2. Experience working with volunteers or community projects
3. Exceptional communication and organisational skills, with confidence in engaging diverse audiences through presentations and public meetings
4. A proactive, self-motivated approach with the ability to manage multiple projects independently
5. A full, valid driving licence – essential for travel across project areas
6. Ideally, you will be located in either North Cumbria or the Borders area to help us achieve the goals of the B4RN North East Project

If you wish to apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to the Recruitment Team, B4RN, Station Yard, Melling, LA6 2QY, or email to recruitment@b4rn.org.uk. More information can be found on /about-us/opportunities/