Project Development Coordinator

B4RN; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused broadband organization in the North East is seeking a Project Development Coordinator to expand their network. The role involves engaging with rural communities, overseeing project development, and fostering relationships with stakeholders. Ideal candidates have experience with community projects and excellent communication skills. A full driving license is essential, and the position includes flexibility in hours. To apply, send your CV to the recruitment team.

Qualifications

• An understanding of rural communities and challenges regarding connectivity.
• Experience working with volunteers or community projects.
• Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently.
• A full, valid driving license is essential.

Responsibilities

• Identify and support volunteer groups to improve broadband access.
• Oversee project development from initial interest to readiness.
• Collaborate with landowners and local councils to gain support.
• Represent B4RN at public meetings and deliver presentations.
• Work with volunteers to troubleshoot challenges.

Skills

Understanding of rural communities

Experience with volunteers

Exceptional communication

Organizational skills

Proactive approach

Valid driving license

Job description

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 the Hexham area, 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 Northumberland and Hexham regions. You will also need to provide your own vehicle and claim mileage.

Key Responsibilities

• Community Engagement – Identify, inspire and support volunteer groups passionate about improving broadband access in their areas
• Project Coordination – Oversee project development from initial interest to pre‑build readiness, ensuring wayleaves, funding, and sign‑ups are secured
• Build strong relationships – Collaborate with landowners, key stakeholders, and local councils to gain critical support for projects
• Promoting B4RN’s Mission – Represent B4RN at public meetings, deliver presentations, and increase awareness of the transformative benefits of hyperfast broadband
• 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

• An understanding of rural communities and the unique challenges they face regarding connectivity
• Experience working with volunteers or community projects
• Exceptional communication and organisational skills, with confidence in engaging diverse audiences through presentations and public meetings
• A proactive, self‑motivated approach with the ability to manage multiple projects independently
• A full, valid driving licence – essential for travel across project areas
• Ideally, you will be located near or around Hexham/Borders, but we will also welcome applications from those further afield in the Northumberland area.

If you're excited about this role and think you could be a great fit, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please send your CV to our People team at [e-mail].