At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead economic development initiatives and collaborate with diverse partners to drive growth.
- Company: Durham University, a key player in regional economic growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a vibrant hybrid working environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a modern office designed for collaboration and creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local and national economic transformation through innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in economic development and strong collaboration skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
The Economic Development Senior Manager is a managerial position within the University's Commercialisation, Economic Development & Policy (CEDP) team, which sits within the Research and Innovation Services (RIS) Directorate. The post will report to the Head of Sector & Place Development and will work closely with professional services colleagues across CEDP and RIS, as well as senior colleagues in faculties, academic departments and wider University teams.
Durham University is a significant driver of economic growth for County Durham, the North East and the UK. In its last economic impact evaluation, Durham University generated 1.9 billion Gross Value Added (GVA) and 17,320 jobs in the UK, including 668 million GVA and 10,790 jobs in the North East. The current University Strategy sets out an ambition to deliver still greater impact and to play a key role as an anchor institution: translating emerging research and development, influencing policy, supporting priority sectors and enhancing our commercialisation and income generation opportunities.
The Economic Development team helps Durham University apply its research, knowledge exchange, skills and innovation strengths to economic opportunities. It provides targeted support for major projects, investment propositions, skills initiatives and external relationships that deliver economic, intellectual and financial value to the University and its partners.
The Economic Development Senior Manager will lead and support a portfolio of activity focused on economic development, business and industry engagement, investment propositions, strategic partnerships and fundable opportunities. Working with academic, professional services, civic, public sector, further education and industry partners, the postholder will help develop shared priorities, coordinate collaborative programmes and shape business cases and bids aligned to regional and national economic priorities.
The role will have responsibility for supporting sector skills activity where this is directly linked to economic development priorities, including identifying opportunities to align the University's education, research and innovation strengths with business and industry needs in priority sectors. The postholder will also contribute to place-based programmes, regional innovation ecosystem development, investment pipeline activity and strategic proposals where Durham's capabilities can support local and regional economic transformation.
The Economic Development Senior Manager will also support the development of staff, including at least one direct report. They will contribute to continuous improvement across Economic Development service delivery, processes, governance and reporting, ensuring the team provides a coordinated, professional and high-impact service to internal and external stakeholders.
The base location for this role is Boldon House, our exciting new professional services hub. Boldon House is situated on the outskirts of Durham near the Arnison Centre in Pity Me. Boldon House brings a number of professional services teams together in a vibrant office environment which supports collaborative working and is designed to embrace hybrid working.
What you need to submit:
- A CV
- A supporting statement which outlines how you meet all of the criteria within the Person Specification.
- A personal case study demonstrating how your specialist expertise in economic development has helped deliver place, sector, innovation and/or skill related impact (Max 500 words)
For a chat about the role or any further information please contact Neil Bhandary (Head of Sector & Place Development).
Economic Development Senior Manager - Durham employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Anthropology, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, a supportive work culture, and the chance to contribute to impactful research that shapes understanding of diverse cultures. Located in a historic city, the university provides a unique setting for both personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Economic Development Senior Manager - Durham
✨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 Durham University, 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 Durham University 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 Senior Manager - Durham
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 Durham University 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 Durham University
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Durham University, 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 Durham University.
