Job opportunity – Project Manager (Visitor Experience) at Orkney

Starting salary: £43,227
Contract type and employer: Fixed term for 2 years, with Historic Environment Scotland
Grade: 4
Location: Orkney Hub, Kirkwall
Working Hours: Monday – Friday 35 hours per week

The primary focus of the role is to lead the Visitor Experience project within the Orkney World Heritage Site programme, with particular focus on the visitor strategy and development workstream which includes the creation of a new Orientation Centre for the World Heritage Site near Stenness, and improvements at Skara Brae.

The successful candidate will be a highly organised individual, with a proactive approach. They should have a track record in developing and delivering complex projects with multiple stakeholders. They should be able to work independently, building relationships across the organisation and with partners to ensure smooth development of the Visitor Experience project which ultimately reflects the needs of programme partners and stakeholders. 

A strategic approach will be required, understanding the varied perspectives of partner experts and stakeholders in areas as diverse as visitor experience, monument conservation, operations and heritage policy. 

As the project develops you will lead the tender process for the professional team required to take plans to RIBA Stage 3, the requirement for OBC. This will include ensuring that the governance in the partner organisations is adhered to. Experience of working with professional teams and developing heritage projects would therefore be an advantage. The OBC and FBC are to be developed in accordance with the HM Treasury’s Book Process ensuring that a robust appraisal of options and value for money are key in making strategic investment decisions. Knowledge and experience of the Green Book would be an advantage.

You will manage the production of impact assessments required to inform the project development process, tendering and appointing consultants as required.  Ongoing community consultation will also be required as part of the wider programme team.

Key requirements of the role:

Proven experience in project development and managing complex projects 

• Strong stakeholder engagement and partnership management skills, with a track record of facilitating collaboration across local authorities, national agencies, and community groups.
• Advanced organisational and planning capabilities, including budget forecasting, risk management, and use of project management methodologies (e.g. PRINCE2, Agile, or RIBA stages).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear documentation, lead workshops, and represent the partnership in public and stakeholder forums.
• Ability to work independently and proactively, while contributing to strategic goals and maintaining alignment with programme governance structures.

For more details and to apply, please click here.

Closing date: 25/05/2026, 12:00