At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead city development initiatives and drive economic growth in Cardiff.
- Company: Join a dynamic public sector organisation with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape Cardiff's future while working on exciting projects in a vibrant city.
- Qualifications: Experience in economic development and excellent stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Location: Cardiff, UK
Type: Permanent
Published: 8 Jun 2026
About the Job
Economic development plays an essential part in the city's economic growth and prosperity, with key growth sectors including financial services, life sciences, fintech, creative and cultural industries, hospitality and leisure, and advanced manufacturing. Cardiff is a leading investment location among the UK Core Cities and an important tourist and visitor destination, attracting high‑profile sporting, cultural and music events to support the city's economy.
This is an opportunity to lead a new City Development Service within a leading public sector organisation with 15,000 employees delivering over 700 individual services to over 362,000 residents. A recent independent peer review found that Cardiff Council is a “good and ambitious Council” with a “can‑do and optimistic” culture.
You will be responsible for leading a new service within the newly formed Development and Growth Directorate covering the following services:
- business development
- inward investment
- tourism
- city centre management
- economic policy
- culture
- sport and leisure
- Cardiff City Region
- UK city partnerships
- securing and managing external grants
Responsibilities
- Lead the City Development Service within the Development and Growth Directorate.
- Oversee and grow business development, inward investment and tourism initiatives.
- Manage city centre operations and economic policy initiatives.
- Drive culture, sport, and leisure programmes in collaboration with partners.
- Represent Cardiff City Region and UK city partnership relationships.
- Secure and manage external grants to support development activities.
- Deliver on the Council’s strategic agenda for a “Stronger, Fairer, Greener” Cardiff.
- Ensure compliance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and related legislation.
What We Are Looking For From You
- Creative, experienced and accomplished manager with an appetite for cross‑boundary work and innovative solutions.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills to foster and build credible, lasting relationships.
- Strategic thinker able to lead and develop complex organisational issues.
- Confident communicator who is politically astute and can establish effective professional relationships quickly.
- Ability to work across a range of stakeholders and partners.
- Experience in economic development, business growth or related sectors is preferred.
- Technical skills and managerial capacity to support the Council’s political leadership in delivering an ambitious policy agenda.
- Politically restricted appointment in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (as amended).
Assistant Director City Development in Cardiff employer: Local Government Chronicle
Cardiff Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a commitment to fostering employee growth and development, staff are encouraged to engage in meaningful projects that contribute to the city's prosperity. The Council's optimistic culture and dedication to creating a 'Stronger, Fairer, Greener' Cardiff make it an attractive place for professionals seeking to make a real impact in their community.
Contact Details:
Local Government Chronicle Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director City Development in Cardiff
✨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 Local Government Chronicle, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
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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 Local Government Chronicle and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director City Development in Cardiff
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 Local Government Chronicle 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 Local Government Chronicle
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Local Government Chronicle, 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 Local Government Chronicle.
