Head of Economic Development

TieTalent; Matlock Bath CP; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking local authority is seeking a talented leader for its Economic Development team. This hybrid role involves designing and managing economic projects, supporting local businesses, and collaborating with stakeholders to implement initiatives. Applicants should have relevant management experience and a degree-level education in a related field. Benefits include generous leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Generous annual leave (34 days)

Flexi-time scheme

Participation in Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing support

Professional development opportunities

Cycle to Work Scheme

Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme

Access to Derbyshire Rewards benefits

Qualifications

• Experience in a middle/senior management role within a multidisciplinary environment.
• Proven project management skills including target setting.
• Excellent written and oral skills for stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and deliver economic projects using effective methodologies.
• Serve as the strategic lead for economic development initiatives.
• Implement initiatives to support local businesses and expansion.

Skills

Project Management

Effective Communication

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Degree-level education in a relevant discipline

Job description

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