Greater Govanhill – Operations Lead p/t 6 month contract
Greater Govanhill CIC is a tiny organisation with a big footprint. Alongside our multi-award-winning magazine, we run a digital platform, host events and workshops, and support a thriving network of 100+ contributors. We also run The Community Newsroom – a collaborative media hub, co-working and community space in the heart of the neighbourhood.
After five successful years – and more than 20 magazines – we’re at a point of transition.
Our founder is beginning to work with other communities to share what we’ve learned here. It’s time for someone new to step in: to support our team, keep the newsroom thriving, and build on what we’ve created together so far.
We’re looking for a strategic, values-driven operations lead to oversee our operations, funding and team.
Contract & pay
6-month contract for Operations Lead (salary £32,000 pro rata, 3 days/week).
If you bring editorial experience, the role could develop into Managing Editor (holding both operational and editorial strands).
Review after November 2025, with the intention to extend up to 3 years, subject to funding.
Only keen on supporting the 6-month transition away from founder-led? We’re open to that conversation too.
Reports to: Greater Govanhill board of directors.
This role suits someone equally comfortable with the big picture and the small details – from applying for grants, developing budgets and implementing new systems to supporting team members and helping manage the newsroom space. You’ll be adaptable, collaborative, and committed to Greater Govanhill’s mission and values.
We’re sharing this as an open call for interest – the exact job description will be shaped with the person who steps into the role. Rather than a traditional job ad – this is an invitation to start a conversation. We want to find the right person, then shape the role together.
Why now
Greater Govanhill is at a pivotal moment. Five years since our first magazine, we’re about to publish our 20th issue, a milestone that reflects the strength and creativity of the community we serve. Over the past five years we’ve grown from an idea to a multi-award-winning magazine, training ground, and community newsroom that has given a platform to hundreds of contributors and challenged stereotypes about our neighbourhood.
With our founder sharing the Greater Govanhill model across Scotland and beyond, we’re seeking someone to build on what’s here, guide our team and newsroom, and help lead us into the next chapter.
In a nutshell…
As Operations Lead, you will be the organised, strategic, supportive heartbeat of Greater Govanhill. You’ll manage our small staff team, ensure the smooth running of The Community Newsroom, and keep projects, finances and partnerships on track – all while staying rooted in our community-led ethos.
What we’re looking for
Confidence running operations – budgets, HR, systems.
Proven experience applying for and managing grants.
Experience of working social enterprise/charities/start ups.
A people-first leader who enjoys supporting small, creative teams.
Able to balance vision and detail, strategy and delivery.
Editorial/journalistic experience a plus (especially for a Managing Editor pathway).
Alignment with Greater Govanhill’s values (below).
If you don’t tick every box but bring other skills, experiences or perspectives that would be an asset, we’d love to hear from you. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented backgrounds and those with a strong connection to Govanhill.
However please note, this is not an entry level position. We want someone with leadership/management experience to be able to hit the ground running.
What we can offer
A leading role in one of Scotland’s most recognised community media organisations.
A warm, collaborative team who care deeply about Govanhill – and each other.
Real scope to shape and grow an organisation at a key moment.
Flexibility in how and when you work.
A desk in The Community Newsroom, alongside others in media, comms and campaigns.
Opportunities to develop skills in fundraising, editorial leadership, community engagement and social enterprise.
The satisfaction of making a tangible difference – connecting people, amplifying unheard voices, and reshaping narratives about one of Scotland’s most diverse neighbourhoods.
Our values
We Create Space for Connection – in the newsroom, in our magazine, and in our community.
We Serve the Community – local needs shape our work; we aim to be responsive, positive and practical.
We Care – for our team, contributors and neighbours; we prioritise wellbeing, kindness and hospitality.
We Listen – with openness and curiosity, and our work responds to what we hear.
We Prioritise Diverse Voices – amplifying stories often overlooked and making space for those too often excluded.
We want the person in this role not only to embody these values, but to embed them across our systems, strategy and culture.
Interested?
Send a short email (2–3 paragraphs max) explaining why you want the role and what you’d bring, plus your CV or LinkedIn, to Rhiannon via hello@greatergovanhill.com. Please put “Operations Lead” in the subject line.
We’re more interested in getting the right person than sticking to a fixed timetable. We’ll review applications on a rolling basis, with a first review on Monday 15 September. If you apply sooner, we may be in touch for an informal chat. Ideally, we’re looking for someone who can start soon.