About Invest Northern Ireland

Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) is at the forefront of economic development, dedicated to accelerating growth by supporting businesses in increasing external sales and innovation. Our mission is to create high-quality jobs, boost productivity and skills, grow inward investment, and reduce carbon emissions. Our strategic priorities include boosting business investment, accelerating innovation and skills, driving global ambition, developing sustainability, and promoting places and partnerships.

As a global organisation with a Head Office in Belfast and a regional presence across Northern Ireland, Invest NI operates offices in 30 locations outside Northern Ireland, assisting local companies in expanding their export base and promoting Northern Ireland as a premier investment destination. As a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) of the Department for the Economy (DfE), we play a critical role in delivering DfE’s Economic Vision, the new Business Strategy, City & Growth Deals (C&GDs), and the recommendations of the Independent Review of Invest NI.

About the Role

Invest NI is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Development Officer (CDO) to join our Executive Committee. This role offers a unique opportunity to significantly impact Northern Ireland’s economy by leading key initiatives and forging strategic partnerships.

The CDO will be instrumental in engaging with local councils on C&GDs, ensuring these initiatives maximise economic benefits. They will establish and leverage strategic partnerships with national and regional stakeholders, ensuring the operating environment in Northern Ireland is conducive to business creation, development, and growth. The role involves overseeing the provision of an innovative ecosystem, managing the Property Solutions Unit, and leading the Innovative/R&D and Alternative/Non-Core funding teams. Additionally, the CDO will develop and execute an Entrepreneurship Strategy for Invest NI.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and working closely with the Invest NI Board, the CDO will manage a budget of approximately £70m. They will lead a team of over 200 staff, primarily technical professionals, to achieve Invest NI’s overall strategy and organisational targets thereby contributing to the achievement of the Department for the Economy’s public policy goals.

About the Candidate

The ideal candidate will possess a relevant degree (or equivalent) and significant experience in successful outcomes gained as a result of economic development activity. They should have comprehensive experience in areas such as Regional Growth, Strategic Partnerships, Economic Infrastructure, and Alternative/Non-Core Funding. Recent experience in building and developing relationships to achieve significant business outcomes is essential.

Candidates should demonstrate strong strategic awareness, leadership skills, and resource management capabilities. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are crucial, as the role requires engaging with stakeholders at all levels, including national and international media. The ability to travel as required by the role is also necessary.

How to Apply

To apply, please click the 'Apply now' button below and submit your cover letter and CV. You are also required to send your completed application form (attached) through to ellie.barrett@berwickpartners.co.uk - without the application form, you will not be considered.

Candidates are also requested to complete an online Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form as part of the application process. For more information on how we process your personal data, please review our privacy policy on our website.

For any queries or further information, please contact:

Marek Dobrowolski

+44 (0) 7793 529 576

marek.dobrowolski@berwickpartners.co.uk

Ruth Hernandez Turner 

+44 121 654 5936 

Ruth.Hernanezturner@berwickpartners.co.uk 

Join us at Invest Northern Ireland and play a pivotal role in shaping the economic future of Northern Ireland!