Director of Economic Development

Director of Economic Development (Consultant)
Initial 6‑month interim | Immediate start
£700–£800 per day (umbrella)
Inside IR35
Hybrid working

CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place week commencing mid April.

This is a standout opportunity for a senior economic development and property leader ready to step into a highly visible and influential strategic leader bringing strength of knowledge to investment and growth models within a local authority setting. 

With this senior advisory role, you will operate at the top table, reporting directly into a Corporate Director and providing expertise, guidance and leadership across corporate assets, facilities, regeneration and economic growth. You will play a pivotal role in shaping long‑term prosperity, investment and place‑based outcomes.

This is a strategic, senior interim assignment, focused on stabilising, shaping and setting direction, rather than managing day‑to‑day operational delivery. The postholder will operate at corporate level. You will work closely with elected members, combined authorities and regional partners, influencing decisions that matter and delivering outcomes at pace. If you thrive in complex, politically led environments and enjoy shaping strategy while driving delivery, this Director of Economic Development role will keep you challenged from day one.

Your Role as Director of Economic Development:

• Provide expert guidance for the strategic direction of Economic Development and Corporate Landlord functions, aligning assets to growth priorities
• Develop and deliver economic growth plans, working closely with combined authorities and key regional stakeholders
• Oversee inward investment, regeneration and place‑based development activity to drive jobs and sustainable growth
• Provide senior leadership on governance, options appraisal and commercial decision‑making
• Champion innovation, sustainability and value for money across property, assets and economic programmes

Your previous experience as Director of Economic Development:

• Senior‑level leadership within Economic Development, shaping and delivering city or regional growth strategies
• Proven experience working with combined authorities and operating effectively in complex partnership environments
• Strong understanding of business rates retention schemes, funding models and mechanisms for growth
• Experience of development company models, spatial planning and large‑scale regeneration programmes
• Track record of leading inward investment activity and unlocking public and private sector funding

This is an urgent interim requirement with immediate impact, visibility and influence. You will be trusted to stabilise, shape and accelerate delivery while positioning services for long‑term success. The assignment offers pace, autonomy and the opportunity to leave a genuine legacy.

If you’re interested in discussing this Director of Economic Development opportunity in more detail, or know someone who would be a strong fit, please get in touch today with Melanie Machin or George Batson or apply now to avoid missing out.

We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation, so do reach out.

Our clients are committed to building diverse leadership teams and do not discriminate. Recruiting decisions are based purely on experience and skills, and any reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the process.

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