Employer Engagement Officer

About the Role

Are you passionate about creating opportunities for under‑represented individuals to thrive in the tech, creative and science industries? Do you have a knack for building bridges between businesses, job seekers, and training providers? If so, we have the perfect role for you!

About Us

The Leading Inclusive Futures through Technology (LIFT) programme is a collaboration between the boroughs of Islington, Camden and Hackney, dedicated to empowering local residents from diverse backgrounds to thrive in the “knowledge economy.” We focus on creating pathways to opportunities in digital, creative and life science sectors, ensuring these industries are accessible to everyone. Since our launch in 2021, we have supported over 600 local people into employment and helped numerous start‑ups grow their businesses, been recognised through awards such as the LGC, and been profiled as an example of good practice in the Mayor of London’s London Growth Plan.

Key Responsibilities

• Broker new employment opportunities with employers in key growth sectors.
• Contribute to the design of industry‑informed training and employment programmes.
• Coordinate with borough teams and training providers for seamless delivery.
• Provide support to applicants and maintain quality placements.
• Cultivate relationships with stakeholders to raise awareness and engagement.

Requirements

• Proven experience in employer engagement or similar roles.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Understanding of apprenticeship and training pathways.
• Passion for promoting inclusivity and diversity in the workplace.

Meet the Team

You’ll join a dedicated team that works closely with colleagues in employment services and other council teams across the boroughs, as well as businesses, training providers and community groups.

How to Apply

If you’re excited about making a difference and want to be part of a transformative programme, we’d love to hear from you. Apply via the online application form, and please refer to the person specification within your application. Contact Hamish Mackay, LIFT Senior Programme Manager.

About You

Islington is a place rich with diversity and culture. As a council our sense of purpose couldn’t be clearer: we serve. It’s in the logo. We are committed to challenging inequality in the borough and as one of the largest employers we know that to look after the place and the planet, we have to look after our people. Together we can change the future. We are determined to create a more equal Islington, where everyone who lives here has an equal chance to thrive. To do this, everyone who works at Islington Council lives by a set of values which guide us in everything that we do: collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering. They spell out ‘CARE’, which is what we think public service is all about.

Our Offer to You

• Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service.
• A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week.
• Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential.
• Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum.
• Excellent local government pension scheme.
• Cycle‑to‑Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
• Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more!

Please note: Priority will be given to those at risk of redundancy within Islington Council. Current employees who are part of the redeployment pool must meet the essential criteria for shortlisting to be prioritised.

Workforce Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel they belong and can safely express their thoughts, ideas, and challenges, without fear of judgement or discrimination. We maintain a zero‑tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act, including but not limited to race, disability, sexual orientation, sex, religion and belief, age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, and maternity. Any incidents of discrimination will be promptly investigated and addressed in line with our HR policies to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all colleagues. We use data to identify and address disparities, ensuring that our policies and practices are transparent and impactful in promoting a diverse representation of backgrounds and perspectives at all levels of the organisation. We look at inequality through an intersectional lens, recognising that different aspects of someone’s identity can combine to create unique experiences of discrimination and disadvantage. We know that advancing diversity and inclusion is a continuous journey, and we must listen to our colleagues and learn where we can further improve. We work closely with our Colleague Forums and Trade Unions, supported by active allies from our Corporate Management Team, to monitor and evaluate our practices, identify barriers, and empower colleagues to promote equality and inclusion in the workplace. Every one of us has a role to play in making Islington Council a truly inclusive workplace. By living out our CARE (collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering) values every day and embedding the principles of equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion in our work, we can all actively contribute to empowering people and creating a more equal Islington.

Pre‑Employment Checks

• Proof of address.
• Evidence of any name changes (if applicable).
• Right to work in the UK.
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable).
• Satisfactory references.
• Occupational Health clearance.
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations.
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable).

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Disability Confident Scheme

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.