Greener Ipswich CIC was established in 2024 to facilitate horticultural solutions inthe Ipswich and East Suffolk region. It seeks to improve the natural environment by developing neglected green spaces and maintaining existing gardens. Where appropriate, it works with Local Authorities and other organizations, seeking through collaboration to achieve the best possible outcomes. Greener Ipswich CIC seeks to provide: employment for ex-offenders and people at risk of being marginalised; opportunities for horticultural students to experience meaningful projects; opportunities for volunteers to engage in rewarding activities; schemes to develop social cohesion and civic responsibility. Partnerships are actively being developed with Suffolk New College (Suffolk Rural), Ipswich Minster, Ipswich Institute, Ipswich Central, HMP Hollesley Bay, Ipswich Borough Council, Suffolk County Council.
The Post
We are looking to recruit a manager to procure, co-ordinate and manage horticultural activities, working in conjunction with the Directors of Greener IpswichCIC.
Responsibilities will include:
- Seeking and securing commissions to help establish the company as a financially viable enterprise
- liaising with the fund-raiser to secure grants
- establishing an overview of each project and their success criteria
- scheduling and tracking the various stages in each project’s completion within an agreed time-frame to ensure a smooth operation
- allocating available funds to ensure that the delivery of each project is accurately costed
- liaising with suppliers, contractors, consultants, volunteers and others involved in implementing the project, including serving prisoners on day release
- liaising with the supervisor, lead volunteers and others responsible for supervising practical activity to ensure that personnel, material and tools are to hand as needed
- liaising with clients to ensure that satisfaction is provided
- monitoring the company’s progress and alerting directors to any perceived challenges or possible opportunities
- developing the company’s brand and marketing strategy to raise public and potential client awareness
- reporting routinely and as necessary to the directors of Greener Ipswich CIC and, when appropriate, the wider membership group of Greener Ipswich
The post-holder will be managed by David Matthews, Director, Greener Ipswich CIC.
While this post is initially part-time, with flexible hours, it is hoped that a full-time permanent position will become available. During the probationary period, it is understood, that priority will be given to those responsibilities which are most likely to develop the company.
Salary
£30 per hour
Hours
Initially, for a three-month probationary period, seven hours per week; to be reviewed at the end of the probationary period if more funded work is brought into the company.
Qualifications and Skills
The successful candidate will have experience of project management, ideally within the horticultural industry. Formal qualifications, at least up to A-level standard, are expected.
Requirements
Essential:
- Commitment to the company’s environmental ambitions and social amelioration agenda
- Commitment to improve the town of Ipswich for those who live in, work in and visit it
- Proven business acumen
- Experience working in a managerial role within the horticulture industry
- Good communication skills
- IT literacy
- Scrupulous protection of data
- The ability to manage staff and volunteers effectively, sensitive to others’
diverse needs and circumstances - Self-motivation and flexibility
- Organised and methodical good time-management
- Courtesy, recognising the ambassadorial role
- Conscientiousness
- A calm and patient demeanour
- Demonstrable problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of safeguarding requirements (training will be provided as necessary)
- Maintenance of high standards as necessary
Desired:
Own transport; travel expenses will be paid, subject to prior approval
Applications
This position has been made available to further Greener Ipswich CIC’s stated objective to support the rehabilitation of ex-offenders.
The names of two referees, who will be asked for confidential references, will be required.
Appropriate DBS clearance will be necessary.
A probationary period of three months will be required. This post will start in May 2025.