At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategies for business growth and skills alignment in advanced manufacturing and engineering.
- Company: Essex County Council, a leader in economic development and community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and support for unpaid carers.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to diversity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local businesses and the economy while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education in relevant fields and experience in economic development.
About the Role
Sector Growth & Skills Lead – Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Sector (including Defence & Security). Fixed Term / Secondment (to 31 March 2027), Full Time. £45,990 to £54,105 per annum. Location: Chelmsford. Working style: Anywhere worker. Closing Date: 7 June 2026.
Role Responsibilities
- Support the definition and development of strategies and action plans that promote business growth, job creation, sector growth, and skills alignment within priority sectors.
- Lead the delivery of regional projects, including setting up and coordinating sector‑based working groups to identify and address shared challenges such as skills shortages, access to finance, innovation, productivity issues, and opportunities for sector clustering.
- Develop commissioning responses to key business growth, employability, and skills issues facing Essex, coordinating with external providers and stakeholders to address identified growth challenges and increase the skills of the Essex workforce.
- Serve as the primary contact for ECC’s business account management approach, building and maintaining trusting relationships with businesses, industry representatives and partners, and researching effective engagement methods.
- Act as a subject‑matter, sector, or industry expert and a central point of contact for a range of economic‑growth subjects, providing advice, technical knowledge, and project management across business‑facing activities.
- Support data collection and analysis to inform strategy adjustments, monitor progress on sectoral, skills and business growth metrics, and evaluate the impact of economic initiatives.
- Lead the delivery of business engagement events, summits, workshops and webinars to advance ECC’s business‑facing goals, collaborating with communications and marketing teams to maintain consistent messaging and branding.
- Represent the council in sector, business and skills related forums and meetings, advocating for resources and raising awareness of Essex’s economic‑development goals.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Educated to RQF level 6 (degree level) in business management, economic development, a key growth sector, public service, business development or equivalent by experience.
- Evidence of continuing professional development and strong knowledge of economic‑development principles and practices, including understanding of local, regional, and national policies and trends.
- Familiarity with business, sector‑growth, and skills programmes, funding opportunities and grants, including knowledge of the factors that drive business‑skills and growth investments.
- Proven track record in designing, delivering and monitoring business, skills or sector‑growth programmes, projects and initiatives, with demonstrated impact.
- Proficiency in building collaborative partnerships and senior‑level business relationships, actively listening, assessing needs and recommending solutions that support skills development and sustainable growth of local businesses and sectors.
- Ability to provide robust written and verbal recommendations on proposed courses of action to senior leaders.
Other Requirements
The role requires the applicant to be mobile throughout the operational area. A driving licence and access to a vehicle, or the ability to meet the mobility requirements through other means, is required.
Equal Opportunities & Disability
Essex County Council is a Disability Confident Leader. We are committed to interviewing all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements of the job. We also interview all veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements of the role. Once you’ve secured your role within Essex County Council you will receive many great employee benefits, including support for unpaid carers and flexible working arrangements to accommodate their needs.
Safeguarding
Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Sector Growth & Skills Lead- Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Sector (inc. Defence & Security) in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee growth and development within the Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Sector. With a commitment to flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on collaboration, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on local businesses and communities. The council's dedication to inclusivity, including support for disabled applicants and veterans, further enhances its reputation as a supportive and progressive workplace in Chelmsford.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sector Growth & Skills Lead- Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Sector (inc. Defence & Security) in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering sector. Attend industry events, workshops, and webinars to meet potential employers and learn about job openings before they’re advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with industry leaders or during interviews, don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge about economic development and skills alignment. It’ll set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or networking events. A quick email thanking someone for their time can go a long way. It keeps you on their radar and shows you’re genuinely interested in building relationships within the sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources and tips to help you land that dream job. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities in the Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Sector Growth & Skills Lead- Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Sector (inc. Defence & Security) in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Sector Growth & Skills Lead. We want to see how you can contribute to business growth and skills alignment in the Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering sector.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t hold back on sharing your past achievements! We’re looking for evidence of your track record in designing and delivering impactful programmes. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to build partnerships and drive sector growth.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure your recommendations are easy to understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Sector Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and challenges in the advanced manufacturing and engineering sector, especially around defence and security. Being able to discuss current issues and opportunities will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of past projects where you've successfully led initiatives or coordinated teams. Highlight how you’ve tackled skills shortages or fostered business growth, as this aligns perfectly with the role's responsibilities.
✨Build Relationships Before the Interview
If possible, reach out to current employees or industry contacts to gain insights about the company culture and expectations. This can help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your proactive approach during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges related to skills alignment or sector growth. Think through potential scenarios and formulate clear, structured responses that showcase your problem-solving abilities.
