At a Glance
- Tasks: Support economic growth by collaborating with businesses and partners in Devon.
- Company: Devon County Council, committed to sustainable development and community engagement.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to promoting equality and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Devon's economy while supporting local food systems.
- Qualifications: Experience in project coordination and knowledge of the Devon economy.
The predicted salary is between 24300 - 29700 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity to join the Place and Sector Development Team as an Economic Development Assistant has become available. As a member of the team, you will support the team working with partners and businesses to strengthen the Devon economy. We are seeking a team member to support us in delivering economic development priorities that support sustainable economic growth across the County. You will help collaborate with businesses, local authorities and government agencies. The role will also focus on supporting the coordination and facilitation of the Devon Food Partnership, which is hosted by the team and supports the delivery of the strategic priorities in Devon’s Good Food Strategy 2023-2028. Supporting the agri-food sector and wider food system transformation is a key area of focus for the team to address priorities around sustainability, health, resilience, and economic growth.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Effective delivery and evaluation of programs or projects as allocated.
- To provide signposting, liaison and information sharing services that will support the ongoing management and further development of effective partnerships with a range of businesses, external agencies and colleagues to deliver economic priorities.
- To demonstrate understanding of Devon County Council's identified priority trade sectors and contribute to the development of sector specific plans and strategies by undertaking appropriate research.
- To communicate by telephone, email and face to face with a wide range of internal and external, private and public sector stakeholders to promote and deliver Devon County Council priority outcomes.
- To work in partnership with colleagues and external partners to coordinate the promotion and delivery of a range of economic development activities through the use of research and evaluation reports, organisation of events including workshops, conferences and steering groups, maintenance of team websites, targeted social media campaigns and development of content for newsletters and press releases.
- To work with more experienced members of the Economy service to develop skills in the use of DCC finance system software in order to provide assistance with purchase orders and budget monitoring.
About You:
You will have experience in supporting projects, ideally within or alongside the public sector. Key attributes include:
- Experience of coordinating, and delivering projects, activities and initiatives.
- Good knowledge and understanding of the Devon economy and good knowledge of small, medium & micro business sectors.
- Experience of organising events.
- Experience of working with external partners.
- An understanding of local food systems and the agri-food sector would be useful in this role.
For an informal discussion please contact Stuart Anderson at Stuart.Anderson@devon.gov.uk.
Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work is required.
Economic Development Assistant in Exeter employer: Devon County Council
Devon County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional development. As a Lead Approved Mental Health Professional, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on mental health services while benefiting from a strong commitment to employee growth and well-being in a vibrant community setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Economic Development Assistant in Exeter
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Devon County Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Devon County Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Economic Development Assistant in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Devon County Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Devon County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Devon County Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Devon County Council.
