Charity number: 1000142
Saving Dorset’s disappearing history
Volunteer Events Co-ordinator
Description & Person Specification
The Dorset Archives Trust (DAT) is an independent charity which supports the work of the Dorset History Centre (DHC) which houses the archives for Bournemouth Dorset and Poole along with the Dorset local studies library. DHC is a publicly funded body but benefits greatly from the voluntary efforts and contributions of DAT, its board of trustees and its members. DAT raises funds and organises events including a range of talks and visits with expert speakers which unlock the fascinating stories from Dorset’s archives.
Role Title: Volunteer Events Co-ordinator
Role Description
Role Purpose / Working as part of a small, friendly team, the events coordinator will take a lead role in organising and planning DAT‘s charitable events. The co-ordinator would be fully supported by other members of DAT in the practical aspects of holding an event.
Events are informal and fun and DAT holds 5 or 6 of them annually. The purpose of the events is to raise the profile of Dorset’s archives, encourage interest in them and to raise funds for the work of DHC. Events are usually held at DHC, but also at other locations within Dorset which relate to one or more of the collections held at DHC (such as Kingston Lacy).
Role Duties & Responsibilities / The events coordinator, will take the lead on:
  • identifying potential speakers, titles and topics of talks
  • arranging the annual schedule of events, locations and dates
  • supporting the marketing and publicity for events
  • liaising with DAT and DHC staff re the organisation of event and venue
  • Organising bookings, potentially online to reduce administration
  • recording events – photographs and sound

Working Environment / Most activity would take place at home or at DHC. A full induction to the work of DHC and DAT would be provided. The Events Co-ordinator could, if they wished, join the board of trustees of DAT. This would include attending quarterly board meetings and helping to shape the work and activities of the charity.
Person Specification
Education/
Qualifications / A good general education is required, but no specific qualifications are necessary.
An interest in history and heritage would be an advantage.
Knowledge / An understanding of Dorset’s history and of the network of cultural heritage providers across the county would be useful.
Experience / Experience of events organising would be a bonus, but is not essential. Enthusiasm and a willingness to ‘muck in’ are by far the most important qualities required in this role.
Key Skills /
  • Good organisational skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Reasonable PC skills and access to the internet is an advantage.
Training will be offered for any areas of the role that requires it.

For further information or to discuss this role further, please contact:

Sam Johnston, Hon Secretary, Dorset Archives Trust, Dorset History Centre, Bridport Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1RP Tel. 01305-228929