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Growth Hub Manager – Swindon & Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership Ltd (SWLEP)

£40,000 to £45,000    Based in Corsham

We have an exciting opportunity for an outstanding individual with vision and capability to lead an innovative business support service.  You will have experience of managing projects, people and partnerships, combined with a passion for enabling local businesses and communities to thrive.

SWLEP receives Government funding to run a Growth Hub, which provides support for local people to start, run and grow a business.  Our Growth Hub is one of a network of 38 across the country, with increasing collaboration happening between neighbouring hubs.  Our Growth Hub currently provides web-based and telephone advice, with access to face-to-face support. Subject to a successful funding application, we plan to expand this service with dedicated Growth Hub ‘navigators’ across the area, a Start Up service, a Scale Up service, and a grant scheme for small businesses.  We would welcome fresh thinking and a commercial approach to build on these plans.

SWLEP also runs a skills brokerage service known as Higher Futures, liaising with education providers to address skills gaps identified by local businesses, as well as advice on Apprenticeships.  Going forward, SWLEP is looking to bring this service into the Growth Hub’s delivery framework and management structure.  

The Growth Hub Manager will therefore be responsible for delivering “business as usual” services, including overseeing the delivery of digital services, plus regular reporting to our Board and central Government, as well as using your project implementation and people skills to establish new offerings and amalgamate existing services.

Change is part of the everyday picture for this role.  The Growth Hub Manager would need to be fleet of foot to adapt to the changing political climate and demonstrate business acumen by flexing according to the needs of clients.

A fundamental part of this role is to “horizon scan” for developments that fit with our strategic aims and plan how to bring these opportunities to fruition.  We think these challenges are what makes the Growth Hub such an exciting place to take the next step on your career path. 

The successful candidate will bring experience in managing teams and third-party service providers, as well as a collaborative approach to partnership working.  You will ideally have experience of European funded projects and working with Government bodies.  Alternatively, first-hand experience of the challenges of running your own business are also valid criteria for the post.

You will be able to put your analytical and IT skills into practice to produce performance reports and ensure that the CRM system and digital services are being used optimally.  You will also be degree educated (or equivalent experience) with strong financial acumen and experience of managing budgets.

The role is based at our new office in Corsham’s recently opened Digital Mansion which provides a fantastic modern working environment in the heart of this beautiful market town.  Regular travel, predominantly in the Wiltshire and Swindon area, will be part of your role.

If this sounds like your ideal next job, or you would like further information, please download a full job description and person specification.

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter explaining what attracts you to the role and why you would be an ideal candidate by email to [email protected] . Closing date for applications is Sunday, 26 January 2020 with interviews to be held in early February.

This is a full-time position.  However, we are open to discussing suggestions as to how the responsibilities of this role can be met through flexible working arrangements.