Head of Economic Development

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and shaping a sustainable future? Do you have a deep understanding of Economic Development?

Derbyshire County Council is seeking a talented and driven individual to lead our Economic Development team in leading the strategic approach and priorities for the economic development service in alignment with the Council and Service Plan to support economic growth in Derbyshire.

You will play a key role in leading the Economic Development service, that will re-engineer and reshape the work of the Council and partners, to better meet the demands of the economic development service post the global pandemic and with the creation of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

If you want to have a strong influence on economic development policies and want to work for a forward thinking and innovative authority, joining this ambitious and dynamic team could be the perfect opportunity for you to really make a difference.

Key aspects of this role also include:

• To design, manage and deliver collaborative economic projects and programmes using a clear and efficient project management methodology.
• To be the strategic lead for economic development including business growth, investment, external funding bids and delivery of major projects
• To deliver initiatives and programmes to support local businesses, including broadband and the promotion of local apprenticeship schemes.
• To Chair the Business Economy and place workstream with Derbyshire district and borough colleagues and reporting into the Derbyshire Strategic Leaders Board.

This list is not exhaustive, take a look at our comprehensive job profile for more detail.

What skills/experience will you need?

• Demonstrable experience in a middle/senior management role in a multi-disciplinary environment and/or a related field
• Reporting and making formal presentations to senior managers and Cabinet Members.
• Project management, target setting and performance management of multi-disciplinary projects.
• You’ll also have excellent written and oral communication skills, as well an ability to engage well with stakeholders.
• Educated to degree level in a relevant discipline/ and or appropriate level post graduate experience. Ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships with key stakeholders, including local communities, businesses, and other local authorities.

Derbyshire is a wonderful place to live, visit and work. The post will be hybrid with the team office based at County Hall at Matlock, in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales.

Support & Benefits:

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (34 days): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counselling.
• Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encouraging environmentally friendly commuting options.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
• & much more

Derbyshire County Council is going through a period of positive development and transformation so it’s a great time to join and drive change.

Provisional Interview Date: 5 September 2025

We are accepting CVs for this position so it’s easier than ever to apply! Just click on “Apply for this job”, register and upload your CV.

This role currently offers hybrid working options which will be to subject service needs, there'll be an opportunity to discuss working arrangements for this position at interview.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.