Business Support Officer - MID06801

Midlothian Council; Dalkeith; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Business Support Officer to enhance their Economic Development Service. This role is critical in managing local business support initiatives under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. You will be responsible for engaging with stakeholders, overseeing project management, and ensuring efficient service delivery. The position offers a flexible working pattern and a chance to contribute to meaningful community projects. If you possess strong customer service skills and a knack for negotiation, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading and managing service delivery.
• Knowledge of procurement legislation and tendering processes.

Responsibilities

• Support internal and external customers effectively.
• Manage end-to-end projects and handle grant applications.

Skills

Customer Service

Project Management

Negotiation Skills

Problem Solving

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Commercial Acumen

Conflict Resolution

Education

HND or equivalent experience

Degree or equivalent

Job description

Job Vacancy

Midlothian Council's Economic Development Service manages the Local Business Support element of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This role is on a fixed-term basis until 31/03/2026, dependent on programme funding.

The role involves supporting internal and external customers, managing end-to-end projects, and handling grant applications. Experience in customer service is essential for effective communication with stakeholders.

There is a possibility of extension, subject to external funding.

For an informal discussion, please email the Service Manager, Annie Watt, to arrange a call.

Essential

• A degree or equivalent is desirable; HND or equivalent experience is required, along with relevant knowledge of the public sector.
• Experience in leading and managing to ensure effective and efficient service delivery to meet financial and performance targets, with a proven track record of collaboration and taking personal responsibility.
• Ability to handle conflicts tactfully, use initiative, and act decisively across business growth or employability skills.
• Knowledge of procurement legislation such as Public Contracts (Scotland) Regulations 2012 and Council Contracts Standing Orders is desirable.
• Sound understanding of tendering and contract documentation.
• Commercial acumen and excellent negotiation skills are essential.
• Contract or service experience is essential.
• Excellent organisational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritise workloads, and meet tight deadlines.
• Flexible, innovative, and adaptable to changing priorities.
• Accuracy and attention to detail are critical.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 2nd June 2025

INTERVIEW DATES: Thursday 12th and Friday 13th June 2025

Job Details

Position Title: Business Support Officer

Directorate: Place

Location: Fairfield House

Contract Status: Fixed term until 31/03/2026

Hours of Work: 36 hours per week

Working Pattern: Flexible

Weeks per year: 52

Successful applicants will be appointed to the first point on the salary scale. The minimum salary for 36 hours/week is £30,243.53 per annum.

Requirements

Compliance with the Cabinet Office PSN (Public Sector Network) Code of Connection is mandatory, requiring a disclosure check, which will be paid by the applicant.

Additional Information

If you have difficulty applying or require reasonable adjustments, please call 0131 271 3063 and mention the post reference number.

Midlothian Council is undergoing transformation to improve service delivery. Existing employees may be considered for suitable alternative employment, and internal candidates may be interviewed before external applicants in some cases.

If you are a trainee in a Midlothian Council Training Programme, have a disability, or are a care-experienced young person previously in care, you are eligible for a guaranteed interview if you meet the essential criteria.