At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital connectivity initiatives to bridge the digital divide in Gateshead.
- Company: Gateshead Council, committed to making a positive impact in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and excellent pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values creativity and work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by improving digital access for everyone in Gateshead.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in project management or related field.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Package and Working Pattern: Full time, Monday-Friday 37 hours per week. Hybrid Working pattern: 60% of time in office.
Who We Are & What We Stand For: Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading – we might be the perfect match. We pride ourselves on an ambitious and forward‑thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive. At Gateshead Council you’ll be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills you bring, encourages creativity, and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi‑time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we’re confident that it isn’t just the salary that attracts our staff.
Lead the Future of Digital Inclusion & Connectivity in Gateshead: The Digital Connectivity and Inclusion Lead is responsible for developing and implementing the Council's Digital Connectivity and Inclusion Strategy. This role aims to achieve equitable access to digital technologies and connectivity for the people of Gateshead, improving connectivity across Gateshead to connect people, businesses and technology. It involves collaborating with various stakeholders to bridge the digital divide, enhance digital connectivity and literacy, and promote inclusive digital practices across the wider region.
What You'll Get To Do:
- Lead the strategy for digital connectivity and inclusion across Gateshead, turning vision into real, measurable impact.
- Deliver a clear action plan, tracking progress, outcomes, and benefits to ensure meaningful results for communities.
- Drive connectivity improvements, leading infrastructure projects to enhance broadband coverage, speed, and access.
- Identify and tackle digital exclusion, using insight and research to remove barriers and create practical solutions.
- Champion digital skills and inclusion, designing initiatives that support underserved groups to get online and thrive.
- Build strong partnerships, working with public, private, and community stakeholders to deliver collaborative solutions.
- Influence senior leaders, ensuring digital priorities are aligned with wider council goals and long‑term plans.
- Promote innovation, exploring new technologies and approaches to improve connectivity and inclusion.
- Secure and deliver funding opportunities, leading major programmes in partnership with suppliers and regional partners.
- Manage budgets and delivery, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to high standards.
- Play a key leadership role, contributing to the Senior IT Management Team and supporting wider service delivery.
What You'll Bring:
- Degree‑qualified (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field such as technical, project management, management or another appropriate related discipline with a project / programme management qualification.
- Proven leadership experience in digital connectivity, inclusion, or a related area.
- Strong knowledge of broadband and connectivity technologies, including fibre and mobile networks.
- Demonstrable experience delivering digital connectivity or inclusion initiatives, including infrastructure or digital services.
- Track record of developing and delivering strategy and policy within a large or complex organisation.
- Expertise in programme and project management, with experience delivering large‑scale, multi‑stakeholder projects on time and within budget.
- Strong understanding of digital exclusion and inclusion, with the ability to design solutions that improve access and digital skills.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with experience building partnerships across public, private, and community sectors.
- Ability to influence and advise senior leaders and elected members, operating effectively in a politically aware environment.
- Experience managing significant budgets and resources, ensuring effective financial control and value for money.
What’s In It For You:
- Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme: We invest in your future.
- Generous Annual Leave: 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs), giving you more control over your time.
- Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work‑life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
- Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions – a cost‑effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).
Our commitment to you: We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We know that we deliver better services when our workforce reflects the full range of backgrounds and experiences in the society we serve. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. In high‑volume recruitment situations, we may need to prioritise those who best meet the essential criteria, based on the information provided in the application.
Digital Connectivity and Inclusion Lead in Gateshead employer: Gateshead Council
Gateshead Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a thriving community through innovative digital connectivity and inclusion initiatives. With a strong emphasis on work-life balance, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package, employees are empowered to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the lives of Gateshead residents. Join a forward-thinking team that values creativity, collaboration, and diversity, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital Connectivity and Inclusion Lead in Gateshead
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like Gateshead Council looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Digital Connectivity and Inclusion Lead at Gateshead Council, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Digital Connectivity and Inclusion Lead in Gateshead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Gateshead Council, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Gateshead Council and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gateshead Council
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Gateshead Council might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Gateshead Council.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
