Welcome

Head of Inclusive Growth and Partnerships

Welcome and thank you for your interest in this exciting senior role targeted at ambitious leaders to support the inclusive economic growth for the county. The role represents a brilliant opportunity to work within a nationally recognised, high-performing council, in a large and diverse county. We are the largest council and are responsible for the largest economy in the region.

We are looking for an innovative and forward-thinking leader to help drive our exciting agenda forward. The role will report to me, as the Corporate Director, Regeneration, Economy and Growth, and will be a key member of the senior management team of the Regeneration Economy and Growth Directorate and extended management team for the council. You will lead the management and development of an innovative, driven, modern and strategic service ensuring the delivery of the councils Inclusive Growth and Partnerships strategy for business support, inward investment and skills, to enable growth, social value, and inclusion.

County Durham has breadth, scale and a proven track record of delivery and the council’s future aspirations for our residents and communities are high. We are the largest economy in the region and we are committed to playing a central role nationally. Our commitment to reducing inequalities will be even more important in the recovery from COVID-19 and this role will be crucial as we adapt and thrive in the future.

The county has a great opportunity to deliver growth alongside the need for an inclusive approach to our economy, development and service provision. Working extensively with a wide range of partners to address these opportunities and address inequality is our focus. We also have exciting opportunities afforded by the creation of the North East Combined Authority, who will be a key partner in delivering on our ambitions.

With a world leading university, global companies and the scale of a large area with specialist sectors such as space technology, advanced manufacturing and logistics our programmes for skills, business support and innovation are essential. Ensuring a clear commitment for quality new homes, high performing front-line services and social value complement our business growth and capability to ensure an attractive and accessible place.

You will work as part of a high performing and integrated management team to deliver a cohesive, strategic and performance led approach to growth and development. Collaborating with our wider service management teams, you will engage with elected Members, and wider stakeholders to shape the future vision and direction of the council. Relationships, track record and experience are essential, and you will have the skills and personal qualities to thrive in a fast paced, commercial and diverse environment.

Working together we ensure that in County Durham we achieve our exciting vision for 2035 and build a better future for all.

We look forward to receiving your application to step into this exciting role.

Amy Harhoff
Corporate Director, Regeneration, Economy and Growth