Head Of Economic Growth (Public Sector)

Overview

Head of Economic Growth

Location: Bangor / Agile working
Salary: £68,637 - £72,260
Contract: Permanent

Closing date for applications - Friday 3rd October.

About the Role

VANRATH are delighted to be assisting Ards and North Down Borough Council in the appointment of a Head of Economic Growth.

This is a senior leadership role within the Place & Prosperity Directorate, responsible for shaping and delivering strategies across Economic Development and Regeneration. The successful candidate will play a central role in translating corporate priorities into operational delivery, fostering partnerships, and ensuring services are innovative, customer-focused, and continuously improving.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and professional oversight of Economic Development and Regeneration services.
• Develop and implement strategies, policies, and business plans in line with the Council's Corporate Plan.
• Secure third-party funding to support regeneration and growth initiatives.
• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality, value-for-money services.
• Build strong public and private sector partnerships to support business growth and inward investment.
• Oversee the planning, delivery, and evaluation of large and small-scale capital projects.
• Represent the Council at key forums, committees, and external meetings.
• Ensure compliance with governance, audit, and procurement requirements.

Candidate Criteria

Essential:

• Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject OR 5 years' relevant experience.
• At least 3 years' senior management experience with direct responsibility for at least three of the following:

1. Developing and delivering business support initiatives.
2. Delivery and project management of large or small-scale capital projects.
3. Development of public/private partnerships for commercial growth.
4. Securing third-party funding for regeneration/economic growth.
5. Developing and maintaining key strategic partnerships within the field of Regeneration/ Economic Growth

• Building and managing key strategic partnerships.
• Proven track record of leading teams to deliver organisational goals.
• Strong financial, project, and change management skills.
• Excellent negotiation, influencing, and partnership-building ability.
• Competence in Microsoft applications and effective use of technology.
• Access to transport to fulfil the requirements of the role.

Desirable:

• Additional relevant professional qualifications.
• Chartered membership of a relevant professional body.

For more information, please contact Ethan Boylan today.