To oversee the development, implementation, and operation of the Universal Standard Support Offer (USSO) online portal, a digital initiative supporting the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) in Essex. The Project Lead will work closely with Essex County Council, technical teams, and VCS stakeholders to deliver a user-centric platform that enhances governance, financial management, and resilience for organisations of all sizes.

The post holder will drive the project from inception through to operation, ensuring the platform meets accessibility and inclusivity standards, integrates AI-driven tools, and engages the community effectively through strategic social media and communications

Key Responsibilities

Project Development and Implementation:

• Lead the development of the USSO platform in alignment with the service specification.
• Collaborate with technical teams, designers, and developers to create a user-friendly, AI-enabled digital portal.
• Ensure the platform complies with best practices for accessibility and inclusivity, meeting the diverse needs of VCS organisations.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the primary point of contact for Essex County Council and other project sponsors.
• Engage with VCS stakeholders to gather feedback, ensuring the platform addresses their needs.
• Foster partnerships to enhance the platform's resources and reach.

Operations Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operation of the platform post-launch.
• Ensure the platform delivers effective support on governance, financial management, and organisational resilience.
• Monitor platform performance, user feedback, and analytics to inform continuous improvement.

Marketing and Communications

• Develop and implement a social media and marketing strategy to promote the platform.
• Create content and campaigns to ensure widespread awareness and engagement within the VCS.

Budget and reporting

• Support the MDCVS director to manage the project budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Provide regular reports to stakeholders on progress, challenges, and outcomes.

General Duties:

• To prepare reports to the MDCVS Trustee Board meetings as required;
• To work collaboratively as part of the MDCVS team towards the aims and objectives of the organisation as a whole.
• To ensure that all work undertaken is carried out in accordance with MDCVS constitution, policies and procedures;
• To keep up to date with relevant legislation, policy and practice issues and to undertake training as required;
• To undertake any other duties commensurate with the post and as deemed appropriate by the Trustee Board of MDCVS.