Cultural Partnerships Lead
| Posting date: | 01 April 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £40,777 per year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 14 April 2026 |
| Location: | Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 2BX |
| Company: | Suffolk County Council |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 22780 |
Summary
- Suffolk County Council
- Address: The role can be worked from work from any main Suffolk County Council building or any larger Suffolk Communities Libraries office - Hybrid working
- Salary:£40,777 per annum(pro rata for part time)
- Hours: 37 hours per week - flexible working options available
- Contract: Permanent
At Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Community Libraries we are focused on making a meaningful difference to communities across Suffolk. How? By listening to our people learning from what they say and creating a culture of mutual respect, where everyone works together to achieve great things. As a Cultural Partnerships Lead you will be as keen to collaborate and build a bright future as we are. So, to make a positive impact, connect with us and connect with a fantastic career.
Reimagine the possibilities.
Your role and responsibilities
As Cultural Partnerships Lead, you will play a key strategic role in shaping and delivering cultural, arts and creative health activity across Suffolk. Working at the heart of Suffolk Community Libraries, you will lead the development of high‑impact partnerships with cultural organisations, health providers and community stakeholders, creating and delivering collaborative programmes that increase participation in the arts, creativity and social inclusion and maximise the unique position of our library network.
Suffolk Community Libraires is an Arts Council England NPO and as Cultural Partnerships Lead you will lead delivery on the commitments and requirements that come with this status and funding.
You will drive the identification, securing and management of further external funding, developing strong grant applications and partnership bids that enable ambitious cultural and creative health projects to be realised. From concept through to delivery, you will oversee funded programmes to ensure they are effectively planned, delivered and evaluated, meeting funder requirements while aligning with organisational and public health priorities.
You will also act as a passionate advocate for the role of libraries in cultural enrichment. By capturing and communicating impact, sharing learning and best practice, and actively engaging with local and national networks, you will help raise the profile, influence and reach of library‑led cultural partnerships, ensuring libraries remain central to improving outcomes for communities across Suffolk.
You will need
- Experience of developing and managing effective partnerships across cultural, creative health, community or public sector organisations.
- Strong communication and influencing skills, with confidence representing a service and advocating for impact.
- Experience of managing budgets and demonstrating value for money.
- The ability to capture, analyse and present impact and learning clearly.
- A collaborative, creative approach, with a strong commitment to equality, inclusion and wellbeing.
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (Word). If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
The team
This role is part of our Library Content Engagement & Development team. From the inspiring books and resources we have across our libraries and online, and our exciting work engaging young people and schools, to our vibrant programme of arts and cultural programmes and activities, we work to really make the library offer come to life for people.
As team we work closely together and collaboratively to ensure a joined-up offer of accessible, inclusive and relevant opportunities for diverse community audiences across Suffolk. We meet people where they are on their journey with the arts and culture. Either as a creator or as an audience member, we provide accessible ways in to expand and experience.
Libraries hold a unique place in communities and our team is committed to making the most of the opportunities this brings and sharing that advantage with wider cultural and health partners. We are proud of the work we do and the impact we have in people’s lives. Our ambitious and collaborative approach brings team members the opportunity for self-development and a supportive, rewarding team environment.
We work flexibly across the library network and beyond, with a great balance of planning, organisation and delivery. The nature of our programmes requires some evening and weekend working, getting hands on with the delivery of events, activities and festivals. The diversity of our programmes and partnerships means a wide variety of experiences, working with artists, partners and audiences
Empowering Everyone
We are big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.
For more information
Please contact Paul Howarth for a casual conversation. You can reach them by emailing: paul.howarth@suffolk.gov.uk
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template.
1. Describe a project where you worked with cultural organisations, health partners and community stakeholders to develop and deliver a collaborative programme. What was your role and what impact did the work have? How did you build trust, align priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes?
2. Give an example of when you designed or shaped activity that increased participation in arts or culture while supporting wellbeing or social inclusion.
3. Tell us about a successful funding application or bid you led. How did you develop the proposal, evidence need and impact, and ensure it aligned with organisational priorities? How did you incorporate the use of relevant data into this?
4. Tell us about your experience of representing an organisation in networks or partnership forums. How did you contribute and help raise the profile of the service or sector? How did this result in successful opportunities for new developments?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
For guidance on completing your application, please see our How to Apply page.
We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences, so we encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the process. You can also read our Using AI in Your Application and Interview guidance to understand acceptable and unacceptable use of AI. If AI is used inappropriately, your application may not be progressed.
Do you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to apply? If you are disabled and/or have additional support needs, you can request reasonable adjustments. You can do this by contacting our Recruitment Team at recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or 03456 014412. You can find examples of possible adjustments on our Reasonable Adjustment pages. If you're invited to the next stage, you’ll have another chance to request adjustments.
Closing date: 11.30 pm, 14 April 2026.
Interview date: 22 April 2026 at Constantine House, Ipswich IP1 2DH.
Promoted as FJ (Featured Job) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
diverse and active staff networks
flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk).
- Address: The role can be worked from work from any main Suffolk County Council building or any larger Suffolk Communities Libraries office - Hybrid working
- Salary:£40,777 per annum(pro rata for part time)
- Hours: 37 hours per week - flexible working options available
- Contract: Permanent
At Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Community Libraries we are focused on making a meaningful difference to communities across Suffolk. How? By listening to our people learning from what they say and creating a culture of mutual respect, where everyone works together to achieve great things. As a Cultural Partnerships Lead you will be as keen to collaborate and build a bright future as we are. So, to make a positive impact, connect with us and connect with a fantastic career.
Reimagine the possibilities.
Your role and responsibilities
As Cultural Partnerships Lead, you will play a key strategic role in shaping and delivering cultural, arts and creative health activity across Suffolk. Working at the heart of Suffolk Community Libraries, you will lead the development of high‑impact partnerships with cultural organisations, health providers and community stakeholders, creating and delivering collaborative programmes that increase participation in the arts, creativity and social inclusion and maximise the unique position of our library network.
Suffolk Community Libraires is an Arts Council England NPO and as Cultural Partnerships Lead you will lead delivery on the commitments and requirements that come with this status and funding.
You will drive the identification, securing and management of further external funding, developing strong grant applications and partnership bids that enable ambitious cultural and creative health projects to be realised. From concept through to delivery, you will oversee funded programmes to ensure they are effectively planned, delivered and evaluated, meeting funder requirements while aligning with organisational and public health priorities.
You will also act as a passionate advocate for the role of libraries in cultural enrichment. By capturing and communicating impact, sharing learning and best practice, and actively engaging with local and national networks, you will help raise the profile, influence and reach of library‑led cultural partnerships, ensuring libraries remain central to improving outcomes for communities across Suffolk.
You will need
- Experience of developing and managing effective partnerships across cultural, creative health, community or public sector organisations.
- Strong communication and influencing skills, with confidence representing a service and advocating for impact.
- Experience of managing budgets and demonstrating value for money.
- The ability to capture, analyse and present impact and learning clearly.
- A collaborative, creative approach, with a strong commitment to equality, inclusion and wellbeing.
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (Word). If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
The team
This role is part of our Library Content Engagement & Development team. From the inspiring books and resources we have across our libraries and online, and our exciting work engaging young people and schools, to our vibrant programme of arts and cultural programmes and activities, we work to really make the library offer come to life for people.
As team we work closely together and collaboratively to ensure a joined-up offer of accessible, inclusive and relevant opportunities for diverse community audiences across Suffolk. We meet people where they are on their journey with the arts and culture. Either as a creator or as an audience member, we provide accessible ways in to expand and experience.
Libraries hold a unique place in communities and our team is committed to making the most of the opportunities this brings and sharing that advantage with wider cultural and health partners. We are proud of the work we do and the impact we have in people’s lives. Our ambitious and collaborative approach brings team members the opportunity for self-development and a supportive, rewarding team environment.
We work flexibly across the library network and beyond, with a great balance of planning, organisation and delivery. The nature of our programmes requires some evening and weekend working, getting hands on with the delivery of events, activities and festivals. The diversity of our programmes and partnerships means a wide variety of experiences, working with artists, partners and audiences
Empowering Everyone
We are big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.
For more information
Please contact Paul Howarth for a casual conversation. You can reach them by emailing: paul.howarth@suffolk.gov.uk
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template.
1. Describe a project where you worked with cultural organisations, health partners and community stakeholders to develop and deliver a collaborative programme. What was your role and what impact did the work have? How did you build trust, align priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes?
2. Give an example of when you designed or shaped activity that increased participation in arts or culture while supporting wellbeing or social inclusion.
3. Tell us about a successful funding application or bid you led. How did you develop the proposal, evidence need and impact, and ensure it aligned with organisational priorities? How did you incorporate the use of relevant data into this?
4. Tell us about your experience of representing an organisation in networks or partnership forums. How did you contribute and help raise the profile of the service or sector? How did this result in successful opportunities for new developments?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
For guidance on completing your application, please see our How to Apply page.
We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences, so we encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the process. You can also read our Using AI in Your Application and Interview guidance to understand acceptable and unacceptable use of AI. If AI is used inappropriately, your application may not be progressed.
Do you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to apply? If you are disabled and/or have additional support needs, you can request reasonable adjustments. You can do this by contacting our Recruitment Team at recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or 03456 014412. You can find examples of possible adjustments on our Reasonable Adjustment pages. If you're invited to the next stage, you’ll have another chance to request adjustments.
Closing date: 11.30 pm, 14 April 2026.
Interview date: 22 April 2026 at Constantine House, Ipswich IP1 2DH.
Promoted as FJ (Featured Job) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
diverse and active staff networks
flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk).
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.