Assistant Director, Economy & Development Services

The Role

Bradford is a city on the rise. With a massive push on growth, fresh leadership and a progressive, forward-thinking mindset, the council is driving change at scale and pace. As our new Assistant Director for Economy and Development Services, you'll play a key role in shaping that future, leading a bold regeneration and economic development agenda that delivers real, inclusive benefits across the district.

This is a high-profile leadership post, responsible for implementing major regeneration and economic development programmes that unlock investment, boost productivity, and ensure the benefits of growth reach every community. From city centre masterplans to cultural-led regeneration, this role is about ambition, innovation and delivery.

Bradford is distinctive for its strong civic culture. You'll need to inspire internally and externally, forging powerful partnerships with businesses, developers, investors, government and community leaders. You'll bring a strong track record of leadership, a systems approach to place-based development, and the ability to mobilise energy around shared goals.

About You

We are looking for a strategic and inspirational leader. Someone who sees regeneration not just as infrastructure, but as a vehicle for social mobility, sustainable growth and economic inclusion.

You will bring significant experience in economic development and regeneration at a senior level. You'll have led major capital programmes in complex and political environments, and understand how to deliver change through collaboration, influence and clear direction.

You'll be a values-led leader who can galvanise people around big ideas, while keeping delivery on track. You will know how to work with elected members, manage multi-agency partnerships, and use the council's assets creatively to deliver outcomes. A high level of financial acumen, risk awareness and performance management capability is essential.

Most of all, we are looking for someone with passion, pace and purpose, someone who believes in what Bradford can become and has the leadership strength to help us get there.

Why Join Us

Bradford is one of the most exciting places in the UK right now. We are the UK City of Culture 2025, one of the youngest and most diverse cities in Europe, and home to a growing population, strong entrepreneurial spirit and significant capital investment.

The council is ambitious, confident and committed to inclusive growth, with significant delivery already underway. This is a place where great ideas get traction and where you can make a lasting difference.

Apply now and be part of something extraordinary!

Recruitment Timeline:

• Closing date: Midnight Wednesday 3rd of September
• Longlist Meeting (no candidate involvement): w/c 8th of September
• Preliminary Interview: w/c 15th of September
• Shortlist Meeting (no candidate involvement): w/c 15th of September
• Assessment Centre and Final Interview Panel (in person): w/c 22nd of September