Development Manager

HIE; Thurso; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent pension and benefits package

Job summary

HIE is seeking a proactive Development Manager to join the Caithness and Sutherland area team. You will build strong client relationships, coordinate HIE products and services, and oversee a portfolio of projects aligned with governance standards.

The role supports sustainable economic growth and partnership activity across the region. Candidates should have client-facing experience, solid communication skills, and a proactive, solution-focused approach to development and delivery.

Qualifications

• Client-facing experience in any sector.
• Excellent communication skills with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Experience working within governance and accountability frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Develop relationships with a portfolio of Caithness and Sutherland clients.
• Identify and coordinate HIE products, services and support.
• Progress projects in line with governance and assurance requirements.
• Support partnerships and regional development activities.

Skills

Client-facing experience

Strong communication

Governance and accountability

Project portfolio management

Job description

£37,989 per annum. Excellent pension and benefits package

Closing date for applications:
28-10-2026

THE ROLE

We`re looking for a proactive and collaborative Development Manager to join our Caithness and Sutherland area team, helping local businesses and other clients realise their growth ambitions and supporting sustainable economic development across the area. As a key member of the team, you will develop strong relationships with a portfolio of clients across Caithness and Sutherland, understanding their challenges, opportunities and ambitions for sustainable growth. You will identify and coordinate appropriate HIE products, services and wider sources of support, working closely with colleagues, sector teams and partner organisations. You will support clients to progress fair work and net zero outcomes through routine client and project discussions, and develop, appraise and manage a portfolio of projects in line with HIE governance and assurance requirements. You will also build productive relationships with project partners and key funders, contribute to economic and community development partnership activity, and help deliver business, sector and regional development events and programmes.

THE PERSON

You`ll bring client-facing experience from a private, public or third sector organisation, together with experience of managing competing priorities, working to deadlines and operating in an environment with high standards of governance and accountability. You`ll be a strong communicator with the confidence to build effective relationships, influence others and work collaboratively. You`ll also have a proactive, solution-focused approach, sound analytical and financial appraisal skills, and a keen interest in business and economic development.

For more information about this position please open the following document/s: