The Iona Community is seeking a Programme Planning Co-ordinator to shape the guest programme at Iona Abbey, planning
creative and inclusive weeks that affirm and challenge people of all ages and inspire them to share their
experience with the wider world.
Working as part of the Resident Team is more than a job; it is a way of life. You will live and work alongside
colleagues and guests, sharing in daily tasks, worship and recreation.
Our guest programme runs from March to November, with themes ranging from particular concerns of the Iona Community
to more flexible “Time and Space” weeks. Some weeks are led by staff and others by external leaders, including
islanders and members of the Iona Community. Every year also includes a YouthFest, a Columba Week and an Easter
Week.
You will plan these weeks three years ahead, in line with the Iona Community’s purpose, work and concerns,
considering the balance of the programme, the availability of leaders and how best to maximise occupancy. You
will also evaluate each week’s programme and work with the Programme Delivery Co-ordinator, external leaders and
the Abbey Team to support its delivery, including providing holiday cover.
We are looking for someone with:
- A strong commitment to the ministry of hospitality and the common life, and a pastoral nature that welcomes
people whoever they are
- Experience of forward planning a wide range of programmes
- Experience of
facilitating creative and inclusive programmes for a variety of groups
- A creative, spontaneous and
innovative approach to programme design, including the use of technology
- The ability to work with people
from a wide range of ages, backgrounds, abilities, nationalities and languages
- Experience of supervising
and supporting people, fostering good teams and delegating
- Good organisational skills, with the ability
to prioritise conflicting demands and communicate well
- Flexibility, emotional intelligence, compassion
and warmth
- Proficient computer skills, including Word, Excel, email and Office 365
- A willingness
to live in a residential community and cover for colleagues when necessary
A qualification in teaching or community development would be welcome, as would experience of working with children
and young people, facilitating worship or using social media platforms. These are not essential.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. The post-holder must be, or become, a member of
Scotland’s Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme.
Due to the nature of this post, it will not be possible to consider applicant’s who do not already have the right to
work in the United Kingdom.