Programme Lead

Belfast Zoo; Belfast; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A public service organisation in Belfast is seeking a leader for the Enterprise Support Service. This full-time role involves strategic oversight, stakeholder engagement, financial performance management, and building a robust governance structure. The successful candidate will ensure compliance and effective service delivery on behalf of multiple councils. A year-long fixed contract with an equal opportunity commitment. Ideal for individuals seeking a meaningful role in economic development and community support.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the future strategy for the Enterprise Support Service.
• Engage stakeholders to optimise support for the service.
• Ensure financial performance aligns with funding obligations.
• Manage a staff team for effective delivery.
• Chair the Programme Coordination Group focused on compliance and performance.

Job description

About the role

This is a full-time, fixed term contract post for one year, subject to review.

As Protestants and males are currently known to be under-represented in this job group in Belfast City Council, applications from these groups would be particularly welcome.

And as young people (people under the age of 35), people with a disability and people from minority ethnic communities are currently under-represented in Belfast City Council, applications from these groups would also be particularly welcome.

As part of our commitment to equality of opportunity we offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

Belfast City Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer and all applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit.

If appointed, you will report to the Senior Manager (Economy) and be responsible for the overall leadership of the services provided by Belfast City Council (as the "Lead Council" on behalf of the 11 councils in N.I.) for the ongoing development of the future strategy (including funding strategy) for the Enterprise Support Service (ESS) across Northern Ireland.

You will also be responsible for:

• Stakeholder engagement (including funder engagement) to optimise support for and awareness of the service.
• Performance of the service in line with funding obligations.
• Establishing and operating a robust governance and management structure (including audit and risk).
• Oversight of the financial performance of the Enterprise Support Service.
• Chairing the Programme Coordination Group with a focus on compliance, quality, and performance management.
• Reporting through the SOLACE Economic Development Group and SOLACE.
• Managing the staff team to ensure effective delivery of the "Lead Council" role on behalf of the 11 councils.

About the department

ThePlace and Economy Departmentdrives thefuture growth, regeneration, and economic developmentof Belfast and this work aligns with the aims and objectives of theBelfast AgendaandCorporate Plan. Key areas of responsibility include:

• Economic Development – Supporting high-growth sectors, small businesses, skills development, and employability.
• City Centre Regeneration & Investment – Delivering policies, plans, and projects that shape the future of Belfast.
• Planning & Building Control – Overseeing development management, enforcement, and the Local Development Plan (LDP).
• International Relations & Tourism – Promoting Belfast as a key global destination for investment and culture.
• Major Events & Venues – Managing strategic assets including Waterfront and Ulster Hall, Belfast Zoo, Belfast Castle, and Malone House and supporting the development of culture, heritage and the arts.

This department plays a vital role in:

• Aligning regional and city-wide development strategies.
• Driving inclusive growth through business support and inward investment.
• Enhancing the city's infrastructure, housing, and transport networks.
• Showcasing Belfast as a hub for tourism, heritage, and the arts.
• Overseeing strategic grant programmes to support community and economic initiatives.

The department plays a pivotal role in ensuring Belfast is an attractive, sustainable, and inclusive place to live, work, and visit.