Manchester Literature Festival is seeking a consultant(s) to develop a strategic plan that builds on the organisation’s achievements and aspirations to guide the Festival’s development over the next 5 years.

MLF provides unique and imaginative opportunities for audiences to experience high quality live literature through an annual Festival in October, as well as a Spring programme, special Bookend events, and a year-round programme of activities for children and young people. A firm believer in the transformative power of words and stories, MLF’s annual Festival platforms some of the most interesting voices in fiction, poetry, literature in translation, song-writing, activism and culture.

Following a period of review, the Festival now wishes to work collaboratively with a consultant(s) to develop a strategic plan that builds on the organisation’s achievements and aspirations. The Festival requires a consultant(s) with solid, demonstrable experience of developing business and strategic plans. Experience of working with/in the arts coupled with a strong understanding of the cultural sector and festivals is vital.

It is envisaged that the plan will be developed through a combination of desk research, information review, data and financial analysis, and consultation. Excellent communications skills are essential, as is the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people.

The consultant(s) and MLF will agree the detailed delivery timeline, though it is envisaged that a draft plan would be presented to MLF in early March, with sign off by 31 March 2021.

A fee of £6000 is available.

To apply:

Download the Consultancy Brief and the Equality & Diversity Form through the link below.

The closing date for proposals is 5pm on Friday 7 January 2021

Receipt of your application will be confirmed by email.

This piece of work is being supported by the Cultural Recovery Fund, enabling Manchester Literature Festival to develop its resilience.