Operations Assistant

spud.org.uk; Sway; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic arts charity in the New Forest seeks a proactive Operations Assistant to enhance operational efficiency and support creative projects. This role combines administrative tasks with governance support, requiring strong organisational and communication skills, and a passion for arts and community engagement.

Benefits

Supportive, flexible working environment

Opportunities for involvement in innovative projects

Contribution to a charity with social impact

Qualifications

• Proven experience in administration, operations, or charity governance.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support governance and board operations, including meeting coordination.
• Assist with day-to-day financial administration.
• Provide logistical support for creative projects and events.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Collaboration

Job description

SPUD is a dynamic arts, architecture and design charity based in the New Forest, working at the intersection of creativity, community and the built environment. Through imaginative public programmes, educational projects and artist residencies, SPUD empowers people to engage with place and space in new and meaningful ways.

Role Overview

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Operations Assistant to play a central role in supporting the smooth running of SPUD’s operations. This position combines administrative and governance responsibilities with the opportunity to contribute to our creative programmes. The successful candidate will work closely with the leadership team and Board of Trustees, ensuring the charity is well-organised, compliant, and able to deliver its mission effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Governance & Board Support
• Coordinate meetings of the Board of Trustees, including scheduling, agenda preparation, and minute-taking
• Maintain and update governance records and ensure compliance with Charity Commission requirements
• Support the implementation of policies and procedures across the organisation
• Finance & Administration
• Assist with day-to-day financial administration
• Administration of all office systems, digital files, calendar and records
• Maintain policies, personnel and other records, and keep policy register up to date
• Overall delivery of the office function and related tasks
• Project Support
• Provide logistical and administrative support for creative projects, events and workshops
• Support documentation processes for funded projects
• Communications & Coordination
• Logistical support for newsletters, reports and social media and contributing to design and content as needed
• Help to deliver the activity detailed in the marketing and communications strategy
• Help ensure the organisation’s operations align with its creative values and community ethos
• Coordinate the development of networks and maintain network databases

Person Specification

Essential:

• Proven experience in administration, operations, or charity governance
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Confidence using office software and digital tools
• A collaborative working style and attention to detail
• An interest in arts, architecture, design, or community engagement

Desirable:

• Understanding of charity finance and reporting requirements
• Experience working with or supporting a Board of Trustees
• Familiarity with arts or cultural organisations
• Based in or near the New Forest or able to travel occasionally

What We Offer

A varied and meaningful role in a respected creative charity

Opportunities to be involved in innovative projects across art, architecture and design

A supportive, flexible working environment

The chance to contribute to a charity with a strong social and creative impact