Contents

  1. Career development and progression with Bexley Council
  2. Place Directorate - Neighbourhoods, Housing and Strategic Planning
  3. E-learning – mandatory training
  4. Highways, Traffic and Infrastructure
  5. Environmental services
  6. Economic development and skills
  7. Libraries and communities
  8. Strategic planning: Transport and development, planning policy, place making and building control
  9. Planning and regulations
  10. Housing services
  11. Leisure, parks and open spaces
  12. Parking services

6. Economic development and skills

There are two distinct career pathways within Economic Development and skills division:

  • dynamic path, influenced by government funding for various projects
  • career grade structured path

Path 1 - Project-based Roles (BBE - Employability & Skills):

Current projects include the Work & Health Programme, Restart Programme, Bexley Twofold, Bexley Works and Business Support. Each project encompasses a range of roles and responsibilities, usually tied to specific funding. While no formal qualifications are required to apply for these positions, project-specific training is required and provided by the in-house team.

Please note: Client-facing roles within this area require strong interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, as well as Enhanced DBS check.

Induction Package:

  • mandatory training modules
  • allocation of a buddy
  • depending on the project, up to three weeks of shadowing an experienced colleague
  • training in motivational skills
  • conflict management skills
  • people management training (for supervisory roles
  • opportunities to observe and practice client interactions, learning appropriate communication skills
  • close supervision during the probationary period, supported by a performance matrix to develop an individual Personal Development Plan

Project timelines depend on government funding and project outcomes. While this area of the Place may appear to fluctuate, individuals can gain valuable transferable skills, such as project management, interpersonal communication, strategic planning, compliance monitoring and more.

Current roles related to these projects include:

  • assistant Client Advisor / Employment Support Officer
  • client Advisor / Business Advisor
  • Senior Client Advisor
  • Team Leader
  • Finance officer
  • Compliance & Administration
  • Service Manager

Supervisors and team leaders hold fortnightly meetings to monitor project performance against targets. These roles provide opportunities for creative thinking to address any underperformance and to design shape future projects, review action plans, and consider how to engage with Funders.

At the end of each project, although progression is not guaranteed, individuals develop valuable transferrable skills that they can apply within different roles at Bexley Council as well as explore path 2 if relevant roles are available.

Path 2 - Career Pathways within Economic Development and Town Centres roles:

Economic Development and Town Centres:

  • Business Support Advisor
  • Project Officer
  • Town Centres Manager
  • Economic Development Programme Manager
  • Head of Economic Development and Skills

Learning and Development Opportunities within the Economic Development Team

Coaching and Mentorship Programme

Our council offers coaching services to all staff, with coaches from our internal pool providing up to six sessions to support self-reflection and improvement across various topics.

We are also proud to offer a comprehensive mentorship programme, aimed at supporting both new starters and emerging leaders. This initiative provides practical learning, professional development, and growth opportunities through structured mentoring and shadowing.

Additionally, emerging leaders, including senior career-grade officers and deputy managers, will receive tailored mentoring sessions focused on career advancement, leadership development, and personal growth. Experienced senior professionals will guide participants in aligning their development with their individual career goals.

Leadership Development through the Bexley Leadership Academy The Bexley Leadership Academy is open to all staff managing others and emerging leaders:

  • Leadership Essentials 1: This course covers technical systems, Bexley Council processes, and operational procedures, providing essential managerial skills.
  • Leadership Essentials 2: This course focuses on leadership behaviours and people skills that align with Bexley Council's values, culture, and long-term strategy, enhancing both soft skills and strategic thinking.

Annual Focus on Personal Development Plans (PDP) and Career Objectives

Bexley Council places a strong emphasis on personal development, focusing on each employee’s Personal Development Plan (PDP), which is aligned with their role’s key objectives. Where applicable, a Competency Matrix is used to assess progress and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that development is aligned with the individual’s career aspirations.

Relevant Apprenticeships:

  • Level 3 Team leader or supervisor Apprenticeship
  • Level 6 Project manager (integrated degree) Apprenticeship
  • Level 6 Chartered manager (degree) Apprenticeship

Find out more on apprenticeships