Job Title: Business Development Officer – Skills Location: Antrim & Newtownabbey Salary: £21.65 per hour Working Hours: 37 hours per week Working Pattern: Monday–Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm Duration: Temporary – 3 to 6 months with possible extension Deadline to Apply - 4pm Mon 18th May About the Role: On behalf of our client, Apple Recruitment Services are delighted to be recruiting a Business Development Officer - Skills to support the Economic Development team within a local government organisation. The successful candidate will work closely with local employers, education providers, government departments, and key stakeholders to identify workforce needs and support the delivery of labour market interventions and economic development programmes. Key Responsibilities: • Lead and support the delivery of labour market and employability initiatives across the Borough • Facilitate and coordinate Labour Market Partnership activities and associated action plans • Engage with local businesses, stakeholders, education providers, and government agencies to identify skills gaps and workforce needs • Support the development and delivery of economic development and business growth programmes • Assist in identifying, securing, and managing external funding opportunities • Prepare reports, briefing papers, and documentation for Committees, partnerships, and Council meetings • Support the development of programme materials, guidance documents, eligibility criteria, and monitoring systems • Coordinate and oversee workshops, consultations, and business development events • Monitor and evaluate programme outcomes and performance against targets • Ensure compliance with funding requirements, procurement procedures, and financial regulations • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders • Conduct research and contribute to the development of economic development policies and initiatives • Deputise for the Economic Development Manager where required Essential Criteria: • Degree or equivalent qualification OR • Minimum of 4 years’ relevant experience in economic development activities • Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a wide range of economic development activities • Experience developing and/or delivering skills and employability initiatives • Strong planning and project management skills • Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines • Ability to work independently and use initiative • High level of accuracy and attention to detail • Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook • Knowledge of external funding programmes and grant application/claims processes • Full current driving licence or access to transport to fulfil the duties of the role • Availability to work outside normal office hours when required Key Skills & Abilities: • Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills • Ability to build collaborative partnerships and networks • Creative and innovative approach to service delivery and programme development • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously • Customer-focused approach with strong interpersonal skills How to Apply: If you wish to apply or would like more information, please email your CV in Microsoft Word format to Julie at julie.skelly@applerecruitment.com Applicants must ensure their CV is accurate and up to date, including full employment history, academic achievements, and contact details. Only applicants meeting the essential criteria will be considered. Apple Recruitment Services is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. Apple Recruitment Services is an Equal Opportunities Employer.