Project Development Coordinator
Position: Project Development Coordinator
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 dependant on experience
Location: Northumberland/Hexham area
Contract: 12 to 24-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 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 take a leading role in planning and driving the successful expansion of B4RN’s network, including the flagship B4RN North East Project. This initiative extends our reach from our heartlands in Lancashire and Cumbria into Northumberland and the Hexham area, enabling more rural communities to access the life-changing benefits of full-fibre broadband.
You’ll act as the main lead for our community-led broadband projects during the development phase, shaping and managing them from initial concept through to build-ready status. This includes defining project scope, timelines, risks, and dependencies; securing funding and wayleaves; and building productive, long-term relationships with volunteers, landowners, councils, and other key stakeholders. Your leadership will ensure every project is well-planned, community-backed, and financially sustainable.
This is a remote role, with some travel required to our Head Office in Melling, Lancashire. Most of your time will be spent out in the field, engaging directly with communities, volunteers and stakeholders across Northumberland and the Hexham region. You will need to provide your own vehicle and claim mileage.
Key Responsibilities
Lead project development – Plan, coordinate, and monitor multiple community broadband projects, ensuring progress against agreed milestones.
Community Engagement – Identify, motivate and support volunteer groups committed to improving local connectivity.
Build strong relationships – Collaborate with landowners, key stakeholders, and local councils to gain critical support for projects.
Secure project requirements – Oversee funding applications, wayleaves, sign-ups, and other prerequisites to pre-build readiness.
Promoting B4RN’s Mission – Represent B4RN at public meetings, deliver presentations, and advocate for the value of full-fibre broadband.
Problem solving and risk management – Anticipate challenges, remove barriers, and ensure projects stay on track for delivery.
What We’re Looking For
Knowledge of rural communities and the connectivity challenges they face.
Experience delivering community-based, volunteer-led, or stakeholder-focused projects.
Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills – including confidence in presenting to diverse audiences.
Strong organisational and project management abilities, with the capacity to prioritise and lead multiple projects independently.
A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and willingness to take ownership.
A full, valid driving licence – essential for travel across project areas.
Ideally based near Hexham/Borders, though applications from across Northumberland are welcome.
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 recruitment@b4rn.org.uk.
More information can be found on /about-us/opportunities/