Job Description

Reading RG30 4YH

We’re looking for a Community Investment Lead to drive meaningful change across two of our priority neighbourhoods. Based in Dee Park, Reading, with regional coordination at Blackbird Leys, Oxford, you’ll design and deliver high-impact, place-based programmes that reflect the needs and aspirations of local people.

You’ll work closely with residents, local partners, and colleagues to co-create solutions that improve health, wellbeing, youth opportunities, and cultural access. From running weekly children’s programmes to establishing arts hubs and green space strategies, your work will directly impact people’s lives.

This is a hands-on, outward-facing role. One day you might be hosting a community event: the next, collaborating with local authorities or preparing a funding bid. You’ll manage budgets (up to £1m), oversee delivery, evaluate impact, and help shape our future community investment strategy.

You’ll be working at the heart of the communities we serve—connecting insight, people and ideas to create stronger, healthier, and more resilient neighbourhoods. You’ll also play a key role in evaluation—collecting data, capturing stories, and using learning to shape what comes next. You’ll ensure our local investment plans reflect resident priorities and the values of our business and charitable foundation.

You’re a people person who thrives on making real impact. You’ll enjoy working in and with communities, building strong relationships with residents, delivery partners, and your colleagues across the business. If you’re ready to make a difference—and to shape the future of community investment in Reading and Oxford—we’d love to hear from you.

This is a two-year fixed term contract.

To be successful in this role, you are:

* experienced in community development, youth, wellbeing or regeneration

* experienced in writing funding bids, community programmes and strategic plans

* a confident communicator, both verbally and written and can adapt your style to suit different audiences

* passionate about community-led change and social equity

* comfortable with data, budgets and strategic planning

* able to work through challenging situation and find solutions

Here are just a few of the benefits of working at Peabody:

* 30 days’ annual holiday plus bank holidays

* Two additional paid volunteering days each year

* Flexible benefits scheme, including family friendly benefits and access to a discount portal

* 4 x salary life assurance

* Up to 10% pension contribution

This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

Are you ready to apply?

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to close the advertisement earlier than stated

Closing date: 14 July 2025

Stage one interviews will be taking place on Teams on 21st (AM) and 22nd (PM) July

Stage two interviews will take place in person on 23rd July

You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Peabody are not able to offer Visa sponsorship