We are seeking a part-time freelance project manager or company for the Oswaldtwistle Mills project, preserving the heritage of Moscow Mill and its community, and making repairs and adjustments so the Heritage Centre can re-open and be accessible to everyone- funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund
Oswaldtwistle Mill is seeking a freelance Project Manager as part of our project to preserve the historical documents of Moscow Mill and its community and make repairs so the Heritage Centre can re-open and be accessible to everyone. As this contract is funded through a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, it is essential that it is completed on time. No budget increase will be possible.
About Oswaldtwistle Mill
Oswaldtwistle Mills Home & Lifestyle Centre is a multi-award-winning shopping destination set in lovely grounds, offering a unique blend of retail therapy and leisure, with a large outdoor picnic area and a free, well-stocked wildfowl reserve. The former weaving mill has over 100 retailers showcasing famous name brands and several eateries. The Heritage Centre is housed within the mill, and thanks to funding through a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, visitors will be able to engage with their heritage and the stories of survival of the mill.
Full Freelance description
We are seeking a part-time freelance project manager or company for the Oswaldtwistle Mills project, preserving the heritage of Moscow Mill and its community, and making repairs and adjustments so the Heritage Centre can re-open and be accessible to everyone. This role will be critical in building and maintaining volunteer and stakeholder relationships. The role holder will work closely with Oswaldtwistle Mills, local schools, stakeholders, volunteers, the local council and the community.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone currently working in a project support or administration role and looking to take the next step towards a career in project management. In this role, you’ll provide project planning, coordination and delivery support. Additionally, you’ll contribute updates for internal project management processes and meet external reporting requirements. Working with the local primary schools, you’ll co-create a new education program that can be rolled out to other schools. You’ll also work to identify barriers to engaging with ‘The Heritage Centre’ and inspire local audiences to connect with the heritage space.
Your responsibilities will include supporting and contributing to the delivery phase of the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) application. You’ll manage the recruitment, relationships, and workloads of a small team of volunteers while supporting heritage training to widen pathways into heritage careers.You will organise and facilitate meetings with the steering group, schools and the organisation.
Key Deliverables:
- Support the Organisation in the planning, coordination and delivery of the re-opening of the Heritage Centre.
- Management of programme and project documentation (e.g. reports, schedules).
- Manage coordination and communication activities with external and internal stakeholders.
- Provide the first point of contact internally and externally, ensuring effective coordination and sharing of information.
About the invitation to tender
Proposals are welcome from individuals or consultancies with an understanding of heritage, a proven track record of working within funded projects, and experience of interpretation.
To be considered, please show how you meet the following minimum criteria:
- A clear passion for stakeholder and community engagement.
- A demonstrable interest in local heritage.
- Proven project coordination, organisational and administrative experience.
- Excellent time management and organisational skills.
- Ability to prioritise and work with minimal supervision under pressure.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- The ability to clearly present to broad audiences, from youth and community groups to stakeholders.
- Good team-worker.
- Experience in volunteer management.
- Experience working with charities.
- Flexible approach to changing priorities and requirements.
How to respond to this invitation to tender
To tender a proposal, please email Wendy Murphy, Engagement Manager, wendy@amazingaccrington.co.uk by Monday 18th August 2026.
The proposal should cover the following points:
- Your understanding of the brief.
- An outline plan including key deliverables
- Details of staff allocated to the project, together with experience of the individual staff members in carrying out similar projects. The project manager/lead contact should be identified.
- Your relevant experience in similar projects, including examples of previous work.
The contract will begin in September 2026 and will run for 14 months. The anticipated budget is £32,025, including all expenses and VAT. The payment schedule will be:
- 33% on signing the contract
- 33% in May 2027
- 33% on completion of the project
This contract is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and made possible by money raised by National Lottery players.
