At a Glance
- Tasks: Build relationships and support local businesses through effective communication and project management.
- Company: Join a dynamic council focused on enhancing economic development in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local businesses while developing valuable skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or experience in economic development, with strong communication and negotiation skills.
- Other info: Initial 3-month contract with potential for extension; Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Responsibilities
- Build relationships with the borough’s enterprise/business support agencies to support coordination, sign-posting, referrals, quality standards and opportunities for collaborative/joint bidding and delivery within the business and enterprise support sector.
- To provide an effective and efficient customer focused service, including the preparation of succinct and structured communications, including a monthly newsletter, and drafting appropriately informed responses to formal and informal enquiries from senior officers, councillors, partners and the public (including Freedom of Information (FOI) requests) and complaints), in a confidential and sensitive manner.
- Develop working relationships with property management agents, managed work space providers and a range of landlords/property agents to ensure a good understanding of the supply of vacant commercial premises, using this information to support and manage business enquiries for vacant sites/premises within the council.
- Deliver a range of activities either directly or through third party organisations; design activities, training and/or workshops that will support enterprise development, help sustain and scale existing businesses and introduce and promote small businesses to major contractors and buyers in the public and private sector.
Requirements
- Relevant degree or professional qualification, membership of relevant professional organisation or relevant experience.
- Record of achievement in a similar role, of operating in a complex environment, experience in local and/or central government, commercial sector or relevant policy body/agency
- Knowledge of the range of issues relating to current central/regional/local government policy on business and enterprise and the role of local government and local strategic partners
Experiences
- Evidence of outreach and engagement with high street business
- Experience of working with local business, resident or third sector associations.
- Experience of negotiation to secure positive outcomes for local businesses and people.
- Experience of commissioning, managing and monitoring projects and suppliers related to economic development with a focus on business, town centres or high streets activities.
Contract
- Initial 3 month contract with the opportunity to extend
- PAYE via Umbrella
- Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (Hybrid)
Contact Detail:
Vox Network Consultants Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Economic Development Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with local business support agencies and organisations. Attend events or workshops where you can meet professionals in the economic development sector, as building these relationships can give you insights into the role and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with current government policies related to business and enterprise. Understanding the latest developments will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying informed about the sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in outreach and engagement with local businesses. Think of specific examples where you've successfully supported businesses or collaborated with community organisations, as this will showcase your relevant skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your communication skills, especially in drafting responses to formal enquiries. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and professionally will be crucial in this role, so consider mock interviews or writing exercises to refine your abilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Economic Development Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of the Economic Development Officer role. Focus on your achievements in similar positions, particularly in local government or economic development.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying and how your background fits the job description. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to build relationships and manage projects effectively.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role involves preparing structured communications and responding to enquiries, provide examples in your application that showcase your written communication skills. Consider including a brief excerpt from a report or newsletter you’ve created.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention any relevant degrees, professional qualifications, or memberships in your application. If you have experience with FOI requests or working with business support agencies, be sure to include that as well.
How to prepare for a job interview at Vox Network Consultants
✨Research the Local Business Landscape
Before your interview, take some time to research the local business environment and the specific challenges it faces. Understanding the current economic climate and how local government policies impact businesses will show your potential employer that you are proactive and knowledgeable.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to demonstrate your experience in negotiation or project management. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you successfully engaged with businesses or managed projects, highlighting the outcomes and your approach.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As the role involves preparing communications and responding to enquiries, be ready to discuss your writing and verbal communication skills. Bring examples of newsletters or reports you've created, and be prepared to explain how you tailor your communication style to different audiences.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
The job requires building relationships with various stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, whether in local government, the commercial sector, or community organisations. Highlight your ability to work towards common goals.