Head of Economic Development
New Today
About
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and shaping a sustainable future? Do you have a deep understanding of Economic Development?
Derbyshire County Council is seeking a talented and driven individual to lead our Economic Development team in shaping the strategic approach and priorities for the economic development service in alignment with the Council and Service Plan to support economic growth in Derbyshire.
You will play a key role in leading the Economic Development service, which will re-engineer and reshape the work of the Council and partners to better meet the demands of the post-pandemic economic landscape and with the creation of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).
If you want to influence economic development policies and work for a forward-thinking and innovative authority, joining this ambitious team could be the perfect opportunity to make a difference.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, manage, and deliver collaborative economic projects and programmes using effective project management methodologies.
- Serve as the strategic lead for economic development, including business growth, investment, external funding bids, and major project delivery.
- Implement initiatives to support local businesses, such as broadband expansion and local apprenticeship schemes.
- Chair the Business Economy and Place workstream with Derbyshire district and borough colleagues and report to the Derbyshire Strategic Leaders Board.
This list is not exhaustive; please refer to our comprehensive job profile for more details.
Skills and Experience Needed
- Experience in a middle/senior management role within a multidisciplinary environment or related field.
- Experience in reporting and delivering presentations to senior managers and Cabinet Members.
- Proven project management skills, including target setting and performance management of complex projects.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders.
- Degree-level education in a relevant discipline or equivalent postgraduate experience. Ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships with stakeholders, including communities, businesses, and other authorities.
Location and Work Arrangement
Derbyshire is a wonderful place to live, visit, and work. The role offers a hybrid working model, with the team based at County Hall in Matlock, in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales.
Support & Benefits
- Generous annual leave (34 days) for a healthy work-life balance.
- Flexi-time scheme allowing up to two days flexi leave every four weeks, subject to service needs.
- Participation in the Local Government Pension Scheme for financial security.
- Wellbeing support including physiotherapy, counselling, and mental health services.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Cycle to Work Scheme to promote a healthy lifestyle.
- Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme to support environmentally friendly commuting.
- Access to Derbyshire Rewards benefits and discounts.
Derbyshire County Council is undergoing positive development and transformation, making it an exciting time to join and contribute to change.
Provisional Interview Date: 5 September 2025
Nice-to-Have Skills
- Communication
- Project Management
Work Experience
- General Management
- General Project Management
Languages
- English
- Location:
- Matlock Bath CP, England, United Kingdom
- Salary:
- £100,000 - £125,000
- Category:
- Management & Operations