Interim Strategic Development Lead, Economic Growth – Greater Essex Combined County Authority

Greater Essex is entering a transformative period through devolution, aimed at simplifying governance, improving service delivery, and empowering communities. Under the proposed changes, powers and funding will be transferred from central government to a new Mayoral Combined County Authority, enabling more local control over key areas such as transport, housing, and economic development. This role will play a critical part in ensuring the new Greater Essex Combined County Authority, one of the largest County Combined Authorities, is set up effectively, with the robust governance, strategies, policies and frameworks required to meet statutory and legal obligations.

Purpose of the Role:

• Shape GECCA’s Economic Growth strategy and underpinning programmes.
• Design and deliver initiatives that strengthen productivity, business competitiveness and inward investment.
• Lead partnerships with business, local government, education and government agencies.
• Secure funding and investment to accelerate growth.
• Embed systems and governance that enable sustained economic impact.
• Build partnerships and raise the profile of Greater Essex at a regional and national level, working across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to drive inward investment, secure funding from government, and ensure value for money in all financial commitments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Design and implement economic strategies aligned to regional priorities. Lead investment planning and support development of multi-year growth programmes. Drive system integration across economic growth, skills, transport and infrastructure. Represent GECCA at regional and national forums.
• Corporate Responsibilities: Develop delivery and business plans aligned with the investment framework. Lead continuous improvement and transformation within the portfolio. Identify risks and opportunities, informing strategic direction and delivery. Drive performance management and ensure value for money.
• People Leadership: Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team, fostering collaboration and continuous learning. Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in programme design and organisational culture. Act as a visible ambassador for Greater Essex, advocating for investment and innovation. Build capability, talent pipelines and strong internal and external relationships.

Candidate Profile (Essentials):

• Strong understanding of regional economic growth drivers and challenges.
• Substantial leadership experience across complex portfolios.
• Political sensitivity and ability to advise senior stakeholders.
• Strategic and critical thinker with excellent partnership-building skills.
• Proven success in securing and managing major funding streams.

Please note: All role dimensions (budget, line reports, etc) will be established and subject to change during the set-up stage of the interim Combined County Authority.

This role is being recruited on behalf of Southend-on-Sea City Council, Thurrock Council and Essex County Council. This appointment is being managed by Essex Shared Services. Should you have any enquiries or would like to request a confidential discussion please contact Samantha Myddelton at samantha.myddelton@essex.gov.uk or 0333 013 0098, or Sadie Orwell at sadie.orwell@essex.gov.uk or 0333 032 2356. If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with Essex Shared Services at essexsharedservices@essex.gov.uk. As part of the application process, you will be required to submit a CV and supporting statement. Closing date for applications: 14th December 2025 at 23:59pm.