South West Heritage Trust is seeking an experienced consultant to undertake a focused review of its Audience Development Strategy.
The Trust is looking to appoint a consultant with strong knowledge of the heritage, museum and cultural sector to review its current Audience Development Strategy and ensure it is aligned with the Trust’s new Five-Year Strategy. The work will support the Trust’s ambition to strengthen audience insight, broaden engagement, improve access to heritage and increase its impact across Somerset and Devon.
The commission will include a light-touch review of existing audience, visitor, engagement and benchmarking data; consultation with agreed external stakeholders; identification of audience gaps, barriers and opportunities; and the production of a concise report with prioritised recommendations for updating the strategy.
We are particularly interested in hearing from consultants or consultancies with experience of audience development, stakeholder consultation, strategic review, benchmarking and evaluation within museums, heritage, arts, cultural or charitable settings.
Fee: In the region of £3,000, including expenses and VAT where applicable.
Timescale: Appointment is expected in October 2026, with consultancy work taking place from November 2026 to February 2027.
How to Apply
Please submit an Expression of Interest that includes:
- A brief proposal outlining your approach and methodology.
- A proposed timeline for delivery of the work.
- Examples of relevant experience and previous assignments.
- Details of the individual(s) who will be responsible for delivering the work.
- A fixed-fee quotation.
- Contact details for two referees.
- Evidence of current Public Liability Insurance and Professional Indemnity Insurance.
Applications should be sent to Estelle.Gilbert@swheritage.org.uk. If you have any questions about the opportunity, please contact Estelle Gilbert using the same email address
Deadline for expressions of interest: 9am, 12 October 2026.
For the full consultancy brief and further information about the opportunity, please click the link below.
Audience Engagement Strategy Consultant Brief