At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of a new Local Enterprise Support function for local businesses.
- Company: Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, committed to economic growth and community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with strong career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Dudley's economy and support local businesses in their growth journey.
- Qualifications: Experience in economic development, business support, and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 54554 - 66678 £ per year.
Dudley Council is creating a new Local Enterprise Support function to help businesses start, grow, innovate and invest. We are looking for two senior, commercially aware and credible LES Programme Development Leads who can help design the service, shape the delivery model and turn Dudley’s economic growth ambitions into practical support for local businesses. This is a high-profile development role at the heart of Dudley’s Economy and Place agenda.
You will work directly with businesses, private sector leaders, partners, suppliers and Council services to build a new programme across innovation, inward investment, sector and supply chain development and the everyday economy. You will lead the design, planning and early mobilisation work needed to create a service that is targeted, credible and ready to launch from 2027.
You will have strong judgement and be comfortable engaging and influencing senior business leaders, understanding their needs and translating that insight into practical service models, commissioning arrangements and delivery plans. This role requires a track record in business advice, business engagement, enterprise support, service design, stakeholder engagement and/or related private sector-facing activity.
You will need to be able to scope out a new service, shape a clear delivery model and build strong relationships with the businesses, partners and providers who can help Dudley’s economy grow. You will lead the development of business engagement activity, commissioning arrangements, contract specifications, governance reports, performance measures and mobilisation plans. You will also support early delivery activity, including brokerage events, stakeholder engagement and partnership development.
This is a varied and high-profile role requiring sound judgement, excellent communication skills and the ability to work confidently with businesses, senior officers, partners, suppliers and stakeholders. You will need to be comfortable operating in a local government environment and committed to delivering practical outcomes for Dudley’s businesses and communities.
Key responsibilities
- Designing and developing the new Local Enterprise Support function.
- Leading business and stakeholder engagement to understand local needs and gaps in current provision.
- Supporting procurement, commissioning and contract development activity.
- Developing performance frameworks, governance reports, risk information and mobilisation plans.
- Supporting brokerage events, partnership development and early delivery activity.
- Ensuring activity aligns with Dudley’s emerging Framework for Growth and wider Growth and Place priorities.
- Working with internal teams including procurement, finance, legal, communications, data and performance.
- Supporting effective use of the LES budget and ensuring compliance with governance, funding and procurement requirements.
About You
You will bring experience of economic development, business support, enterprise, public policy, project management, commissioning and/or a related field. You will be able to demonstrate:
- Strong knowledge of business support, economic development and local enterprise activity.
- Experience of developing programmes, service models, specifications or delivery plans.
- Excellent communication, engagement and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to analyse evidence, business intelligence and performance information.
- Confidence working with businesses, partners, funders and internal services.
- Understanding of local government decision-making, governance and procurement.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver work to deadlines.
- A practical, collaborative and outcome-focused approach.
A full driving licence and access to a vehicle for business use is required.
Workplace Attendance: Working in the office 3+ days a week (pro-rata).
LES Programme Development Lead in Dudley employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LES Programme Development Lead in Dudley
✨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 WMJobs, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
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 WMJobs and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace LES Programme Development Lead in Dudley
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 WMJobs 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 WMJobs
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with WMJobs, 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 WMJobs.
