Senior Economic Development Officer

Job Introduction

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Economic Development professional to join our team at a pivotal moment for the borough. As we review our Economic Development Strategy, prepare for Local Government Reorganisation, and deliver a range of high‑profile projects and programmes, your expertise will play a key role in shaping the borough’s economic future.

About the Role

This is a varied and impactful role at the heart of the Council’s economic ambitions. You will lead on the development and refresh of the borough’s Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan, working closely with businesses, partner organisations and internal teams.

You will be responsible for the delivery, monitoring and reporting of grant‑funded programmes, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, ensuring funding is maximised and outcomes are achieved. You will also lead communications with the local business community, including attending networking events.

Working collaboratively with partners such as Invest West Kent, Royal Tunbridge Wells Business Improvement District, Kent County Council and Parish Councils, you will help deliver joint initiatives. The role also involves undertaking research and data analysis, preparing reports and committee papers, and identifying and developing funding opportunities and bids.

About You

We are looking for a proactive, delivery‑focused individual who enjoys working collaboratively and seeing projects through from concept to completion. You will have:

• A degree in Geography, Town Planning, Economics, or a related discipline.
• At least three years’ experience in economic development or a related field.
• A proven track record of delivering economic development projects and programmes.
• Experience of partnership working and strong project management skills.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• An effective collaborator with a strong commitment to teamwork, partnership working and building positive working relationships across the organisation and beyond.
• Excellent analytical, research and report‑writing abilities, with the confidence to present complex information clearly.
• Experience of preparing funding bids and working in a political environment (desirable).
• A positive, flexible and resilient approach, with the ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.

What we offer:

• Financial: An attractive basic salary within a clear pay structure. 
• Holiday Entitlement: 26 days annual leave (increasing to 29 days after 5 years continuous Local Government service) plus three additional days in December and bank holidays.
• Pensions: Membership of the Local Government (CARE – Career Average (Revalued Earnings) Pension Scheme – Employer contribution of 19.7%.
• Free staff parking.
• Hybrid: The Council operates a hybrid working model with minimum 2 days working in the office.
• Access to HAPI an all‑in‑one benefits hub, giving you easy access to a wide range of employee perks, wellbeing support, discounts, and everyday savings. 
• Personal Development: Invaluable training opportunities for continuing professional development.
• Employee Assistance Programme: The Council has partnered with Health Assured to provide staff with access to EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) to assist in balancing everyday life with the requirement of work and home.
• Take a look here at all the additional benefits that we offer.

Equal Opportunities

Tunbridge Wells – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Safeguarding

The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employee and volunteers to share this commitment.