£1.2 Billion City Deal ‘exciting step towards brighter future’

Theresa May hails £1.2bn city deal as ‘exciting step towards brighter future’

Prime Minister Theresa May has hailed the £1.2 billion city deal for Scotland’s capital as an “exciting step towards a brighter future” for Edinburgh and the south east of Scotland.

Both the UK and Scottish governments are committing £300 million for the deal, with local authorities, universities and businesses also involved.

Speaking at the signing ceremony at Edinburgh University, Mrs May said: “I believe we can achieve far more together than we ever could apart.” 

The PM was joined at the signing ceremony by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon - with the two leaders having earlier had talks.

The Edinburgh and south-east Scotland city deal will support cutting-edge research at the capital’s three universities, improve housing and transport links and help to build a new concert hall. 

Mrs May is visiting Edinburgh as the capital’s annual festival season gets under way, with Edinburgh International Festival director Fergus Linehan reportedly preparing for the impact a “catastrophic” Brexit could have on events. 

However, the Prime Minister spoke about the work ministers are doing to “create more good jobs and spread economic prosperity across the country” as Britain prepares to leave European Union. 

Speaking ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister said: “I am pleased to be in Edinburgh today for the city’s annual celebration of the arts and culture.

“From the Fringe, to the International Festival, festivals dedicated to science, books and storytelling, the city is truly a cultural inspiration for the rest of the UK and the world.

“Alongside the Scottish Government and local partners, I will be confirming £300 million, as part of a wider £1 billion investment by the UK Government through city deals in Scotland, to create jobs and open up new economic opportunities throughout the nation.

“These city deals build on existing strengths to open up new possibilities for the future in Scotland and the whole of the UK as part of our modern industrial strategy.“ 

She added: “Today I have also announced a further £13 million for investment in six science centres in the UK, including Dundee and Glasgow, to drive innovation in science and technology.

“As we leave the EU, the UK Government is working in partnership with business, academia and the devolved administrations to create more good jobs and spread economic prosperity across the country. 

“By making the most of our country’s assets and the talents of all of our people, we can build a brighter future for the whole UK.” 

City of Edinburgh Council leader Adam McVey said: “The agreement of this ambitious deal heralds the beginning of a transformative and inclusive programme which will help share our success right across the region. 

“This investment will allow us to unlock the region’s potential to become a global powerhouse in data-driven innovation through our exceptional research and development activities, whilst the commitment to a skills programme will enhance job prospects for everyone and allow us to capitalise on the opportunities technology and innovation creates.

“We will also greatly enhance the region’s infrastructure through significant funding for transport projects and housing development to build a vibrant region for people and businesses to thrive in.” 

The funds will support economic growth across the region through housing, innovation, transport, skills and culture. 

Investment from the Scottish Government will contribute towards 41,000 new homes, 21,000 jobs and improve the skills of an estimated 14,700 people.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Edinburgh and the south-east of Scotland is an area of huge importance to the Scottish economy.

“The region contains over a quarter of Scotland’s population and contributes £33 billion to the Scottish and UK economies. 

“The Scottish Government’s £300 million investment in the City Region Deal will contribute towards 41,000 new homes, 21,000 jobs and improve the skills of an estimated 14,700 people across the region. 

“Our investments will ensure businesses and communities from across the region benefit from the opportunities created by this the city region deal. 

“Taken together, these projects will help the region continue to thrive and grow, fulfilling our ambitions for the region to be one of the fairest and most inclusive areas in the country.”

Read the original article at: https://www.scotsman.com/future-scotland/tech/theresa-may-hails-1-2bn-city-deal-as-exciting-step-towards-brighter-future-1-4780226

Job Vacancy: Project Development Manager

To support the delivery of North Lanarkshire Council’s ‘Ambition Plan’ for physical regeneration and growth, we are seeking to appoint a Project Development Manager as part of the new Growth Team within Enterprise and Housing Resources.

Ref No: NLA03301

Published: 27/07/18

Closes: 10/08/18

Location: Fleming House, 2 Tryst Road, Cumbernauld, G67 1JW

Salary: £42,153 - £46,176 per year

Contract Type: Permanent

Position Type: Full Time

Hours: 35.00 hours per week

Job Advertisement

As Project Development Manager, you will have a critical role in supporting the development and implementation of North Lanarkshire’s Economic Regeneration Delivery Plan with a particular focus on helping to reshape North Lanarkshire’s Town Centres and create opportunity for sustainable and inclusive growth.

This new post offers an exciting opportunity for someone experienced in developing and managing large-scale physical regeneration projects to play an integral role in the delivery of a long-term programme of renewal for North Lanarkshire. In doing so, you will work effectively across council services and partnerships to ensure that projects form an integrated part of wider regeneration activity for new housing supply, infrastructure, enterprise and skills development.

You should be educated to SVQ4/HND/degree level with considerable experience of leading on public-sector and multi-agency led physical regeneration projects including developing and assessing business cases for such projects. You should have experience of budgetary management and overseeing the management of contracts and consultants with good understanding of urban regeneration and the key issues which underpin successful and sustainable development.

Experience of leading on community and stakeholder consultation as part of wider regeneration initiatives and public sector procurement is desirable.

    

This post is apply on-line only.

Link to original advert: https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/north-lanarkshire-council/jobs/project-development-manager-125398?from=org

Job Vacancy: Project Manager, Economic Outcomes

Vacancy: Project Manager, Economic Outcomes

Post Title: Project Manager, Economic Outcomes

Salary: £31,935 - £37,573

Hours: Standard working hours are 36 Hrs pw.  However, there is potential for flexibility and the appointment may be made on a less than full-time basis (e.g. 4 days pw).

Location: iHub, Quarrywood Court, Livingston EH54 6AX

Duration of contract: Maternity cover, up to 12 months.

About the Improvement Service

The Improvement Service (IS) exists to support councils and their partners to improve the health, quality of life and opportunities of all Scottish people through community leadership, strong local governance and the delivery of high-quality, efficient local services.

The IS is a publicly funded company limited by guarantee, with a total annual budget in the region of £7 million.

Working for the IS means joining a small family of professionals, who work together to strive for continuous improvement in the public sector and, ultimately, better outcomes for Scotland’s communities.

Our company headquarters are based in West Lothian, located conveniently for commuters between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Pay is only one of the benefits of working for the IS, our terms and conditions are progressive and flexible and employees are rewarded with a generous annual leave entitlement of 40 days per year as well as a flexible working policy.

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Improvement Service for a Project Manager, with a particular focus on supporting economic development.

The core aim of the Economic Outcomes Programme (EOP) is to work with Local Authorities and other stakeholders to maximise the positive economic impact of the public sector.

The post holder will be responsible for supporting EOP work across Scotland, including engaging effectively with local authorities and other key partner organisations.

The other major aspect of the job is leading support to SLAED, the professional group for economic development staff based in local authorities.  This includes providing a secretariat service as well as working across all councils to compile the annual SLAED Performance report.

This unique role offers the opportunity to gain a wide range of experience in supporting economic development across Scotland and to help drive change and improvement.

For more information about this role, download the full job description.

This post is suitable as a secondment opportunity.

How to apply

To apply for either of these positions, please download the application form. Alternatively you can call Leigh Rennie on 01506 282012 for an application pack.

All applications should be emailed to recruitment@improvementservice.org.uk or sent to:

Leigh Rennie

Improvement Service

iHub

Quarrywood Court

Livingston EH54 6AX

Applications should be returned no later than 2pm on Thursday, 9 August 2018.

Interviews are expected to take place on Tuesday, 21 August 2018.

For more information about competency-based interviews, see our 'Guide to Competency-based Interviews'.

COMPLIANCE WITH ASYLUM AND IMMIGRATION ACT 1996

In accordance with the above Act, preferred candidates are required to confirm that they are eligible to work in the U.K. External candidates invited for interview will require to bring approved documentation to the interview as verification of their eligibility.  Details will be enclosed with interview letters.

Link to original advert: http://www.improvementservice.org.uk/vacancy-pm-economic-outcomes.html

Fraser of Allander Institute June Economic Commentary

Cautious optimism for growth in 2018/19 but lack of clarity on Brexit risks ‘holding back Scotland’s recovery’

Scottish economic growth is set to recover this year but remain below trend according to the University of Strathclyde’s Fraser of Allander Institute. 


In its latest Economic Commentary, the Institute forecasts a 1.2% increase in Scottish GDP in 2018 followed by growth of 1.3% in 2019 and 2020, making its outlook more optimistic than the government’s own official forecaster the Scottish Fiscal Commission. 


To download the latest Fraser Economic Commentary (June 2018) - click here
To view the economic commentary, articles and video please follow this link.


In addition to the Institute’s analysis of the current state of the Scottish economy, the Commentary also contains the following topical articles:


•   The output gap: what is it, how can it be estimated and is it fit for policy makers’ purposes? - J. Darby and S. McIntyre, FAI, University of Strathclyde

•  Could a reduction in alcohol consumption be good news for the UK economy?  Kevin Connolly, Katerina Lisenkova & Peter G. McGregor, FAI, University of Strathclyde

•   Performance of high growth firms in Scotland - J.Turnbull and K.Richmond, Scottish Enterprise

Unlocking Ambition business stars announced

Next generation of business people to build successful companies with a social conscience.  

Twenty of Scotland’s most talented, innovative and ambitious entrepreneurs will start the first Unlocking Ambition Challenge to find Scotland’s next business success story.

Unlocking Ambition aims to follow the success and impact of Scottish companies such as Brewdog and SkyScanner - businesses that have grown to an international scale and whose leaders are committed to supporting other companies reach similar achievements.

The Unlocking Ambition Challenge is a £4 million fund created by the Scottish Government that will support entrepreneurs chosen for their individual potential, the quality of their ideas and the contribution they can make to the Scottish economy and wider society.

The first twenty candidates to receive Unlocking Ambition support were announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon while visiting Cumnock during a travelling cabinet to East Ayrshire. The group will receive support from Scottish Enterprise, a mentoring programme from Entrepreneurial Scotland, access to the GlobalScot network and help from the Scottish Investment Bank.

The challenge will link established and accomplished business people with the candidates, who have demonstrated their ideas can be successful, inclusive, create jobs and benefit society. This core will see Unlocking Ambition entrepreneurs supported to grow businesses that have a social conscience, through products, services or an inclusive recruitment commitment that can have a positive impact on the lives of its workers.

The First Minister said:

“Scotland’s future as a progressive nation is built on creativity and innovation. Through the Unlocking Ambition Challenge, we will ensure these talented, enthusiastic entrepreneurs receive every support available to help them grow their businesses with the ultimate aim to benefit our communities, drive competitiveness and create jobs – this is exactly what we mean by inclusive economic growth.

“The programme will develop the commercial strength of these companies to ensure they are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in today’s fast-paced global business environment, and be part of the story that shows Scotland as a world-leading entrepreneurial country.”

One of the Unlocking Ambition recipients, Scott Weir, CEO of Pillow, an online travel agent and property management company based in Ayrshire, met the First Minister during the travelling cabinet which marked the Year of Young People. Mr Weir told the First Minister of his commitment to the young local workforce.

Mr Weir’s ambition is to build an internationally recognised group of hospitality and property companies that have a positive impact on the lives of the staff they employ. 

"I'm immensely proud to be part of the Unlocking Ambition Programme. Being selected was an amazing feeling as the impact on my business will be something money couldn't buy. But on top of this, it gives me a great sense of pride to know Scotland is at the forefront of entrepreneurialism.  For a small country, we punch above our weight and always produce world-class people and ideas.  The Unlocking Ambition Programme will help strengthen Scotlands reputation through the world" 

Steve Dunlop, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise, said:

“Entrepreneurship can be contagious, and I believe this handpicked group of ambitious entrepreneurs has the potential to positively change lives with their innovative products and services.  They also have a role to inspire other businesses to succeed and help drive Scotland’s future economic prosperity. 

“The next year will no doubt be challenging for these entrepreneurs as they flex their businesses in pursuing opportunities to scale up.  I’d encourage each of them to embrace their Unlocking Ambition Challenge journey, challenge themselves, try new things, make new connections and invest in their skills and experiences.  I look forward to following their journeys closely and helping them unlock their full potential.”

Other businesses which will benefit from Unlocking Ambition support include game-changing innovations for football goalkeepers, pre-biotic drinks, clean and safe drinking water, contract bottling, craft chocolatier, digital patient services, environmentally friendly sanitary products, new fibres for textiles, omega-3 rich algae from industrial by-products, corporate donations from routine transactions, anti-maritime piracy barrier, speedy beverage delivery, bio-based construction systems, SME HR outsourcing and online travel agent and property management.

Background

More information on Unlocking Ambition Challenge.

The first 20 entrepreneurs participating in the Unlocking Ambition Challenge are:

• Alan Mahon – Brewgooder (Edinburgh)

• Calum Haggerty - Coco Chocolatier (Edinburgh)

• Celia Hodson - Hey Girls (Edinburgh)

• Deborah Wake - MyWay Digital Health (Dundee)

• Douglas Martin – MiAlgae (Edinburgh)

• Hannah Fisher - The Start-Up Drinks Lab (Glasgow)

• Iain Findlay - Aurora Sustainability Ltd (Moray)

• Ian Arbuckle - Linian Supply Co Ltd (Glasgow)

• Jo Halliday - Talking Medicines Limited (Glasgow)

• Joan Johnson - Bespoke Fabrics (Elgin)

• John Robertson – Drinkly (Edinburgh)

• Kenny Arthur - Kaliaaer Ltd (Strathaven)

• Lisa Thomson - Purpose HR (Edinburgh)

• Loral Quinn – Sustainably (Edinburgh)

• Paul Blackler - Drink Baotic (Glasgow)

• Scott Dickson - Phox Water (Glasgow)

• Scott Simpson – IndiNature (Edinburgh)

• Scott Weir – Pillow (Kilmarnock)

• Stephanie Terreni Brown - Clean Water Wave (Edinburgh)

• Steve Regis - ARX Maritime (Edinburgh)

The challenge comprises two parts, a mainstream programme for 20 established entrepreneurs who are ready to scale their businesses led by Scottish Enterprise, and an academic programme for 20 early-stage entrepreneurs led by The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE).

The Royal Society of Edinburgh will announce the successful recipients of their group at the end of the month during an event in Edinburgh.

Source: Scottish Government 

EKOS Vacancy: Research Positions - Research Consultant

Based in Glasgow, EKOS is an independent research consultancy that specialises in providing evidence based research services and creative solutions to enhance economic competitiveness and deliver inclusive growth. We work with a UK wide client base ranging from small community groups, to national agencies and everything in-between.

For more information please see our website: http://www.ekos-consultants.co.uk/

We are looking to grow our research capacity and want to hear from talented people interested in joining the company and expanding the skills and expertise that we provide.  We offer a challenging and rewarding working environment, with considerable opportunity for personal and professional development.

We are recruiting for the following positions:

• Research Consultant

Further information on the position is provided below.

Research Consultant

Job Description

We are looking for a motivated and committed Research Consultant to support our research activities and contribute to our growing portfolio of work across our five main areas of activity: Enterprise and Innovation, Skills and Employability, Community Innovation, Sustainable Place-making, and Growth Sectors

Job Specification

The role will involve:

• Research and analysis of economic and business data
• Undertaking statistical analysis and presentation of results
• Setting up and running market research studies
• Supporting senior colleagues in primary research
• Producing written input into reports
• Undertaking telephone and face-to face consultations
• Input to questionnaire design
• Attending client liaison meetings throughout project as appropriate

Job Requirements

To be considered for the position you should have:

• a Degree in economics or related social science discipline -preferably 2.1 or above although this is not essential
• Experience working in a research related field within another organisation or as part of your University degree
• Ability to analyse and present data in a clear and understandable manner
• Strong analytical and presentational skills
• Ability to communicate at all levels
• Able to write well with good command of report writing

Job Particulars

Salary: £17,000 - £20,000

Benefits: Pension contribution, Bonus Scheme, Personal training budget, Professional development mentor

Annual leave: 35 days annual leave (including statutory)

Location: Glasgow, with some travel within the UK

Status: Full-time

Start date: July/August 2018


If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a CV and covering letter to chris.kelly@ekos.co.uk


The closing date for applications is Friday 29th June.

SQW Vacancy: Economic development and evaluation specialists for City Deal research

Consultants and Managing Consultants

London, Manchester, or Edinburgh,

Due to continued growth, SQW is looking to recruit bright, motivated and experienced Consultants and Managing Consultants.  This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading economic development consultancies helping our clients to shape national and local policy.   

We are leading the national evaluation of devolved investment funding linked to City Deal programmes across the UK.  A City Deal is an agreement between government and a city. They provide a fund which cities and combined authorities can decide how best to investment to help support local economic growth.  We want to recruit people to support those evaluations.  Therefore, we are seeking:

• strong skills and experience in evaluation, ideally related to one or more of the activities being funded through the City Deals (e.g. transport improvements, site development for commercial and housing, business and innovation, and skills development)
• interest and expertise in the economic growth and development of UK city regions  
• an awareness of a range of research and evaluation techniques
• experience of writing reports to a high standard
• knowledge and experience of business case development and Green Book appraisal approaches and methodologies

The successful candidates will also be involved in the firm’s broader work.  We have specific expertise in four key areas of policy.  These cover: spatial and local economic development; innovation and business growth; children and young people; and health and social care. 

• Some recent high-profile examples of our work include:
• The evaluation of four of the UK’s Catapult centres for Innovate UK.
• Economic analysis of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor to inform the decisions of the National Infrastructure Commission.
• Assessing the impact of Scottish Development International support for international trade.
• Support to develop a number of Science and Innovation Audits across the UK.
• The evaluation of Schools Challenge Cymru for the Welsh Government.
• Reviewing the digital ecosystem of Sheffield City Region to inform a long-term action plan.
• Research into learner journeys for the Scottish Government.

Managing Consultants are instrumental to the successful delivery of projects at SQW, taking responsibility for managing several projects at any one time and contributing to others.  They also play an important role in work winning and proactive business development.  Consultants also work on multiple projects at any one time, taking responsibility for substantive tasks such as fieldwork and analysis, and also having the opportunity to take on client-facing roles, such as managing smaller projects.  There is a significant amount of autonomy at the firm, and individuals must be self-starters. 

In addition to having relevant work experience in one or more of the areas in which we work, you should have:

• a strong academic record, which includes demonstration of numerical proficiency
• an understanding of the commercial imperatives of consultancy
• experience of working collaboratively as part of a project team
• a good knowledge of some of SQW’s core clients
• and for Managing Consultant positions, experience of managing teams and projects to budget.

At SQW, employees have opportunities to enjoy variety and continuous learning, making a real contribution to the growth and development of the business early on in their careers with us, whilst taking responsibility for their own development in a supportive and challenging environment.  Successful applicants must be ambitious and enthusiastic to build SQW’s profile in the fields in which they work, and show a strong level of commercial awareness of and sensitivity to the key issues facing clients, and the implications for sustainable work winning.

SQW works from four office locations.  These posts could be based in three of them: London, Manchester or Edinburgh.  The successful applicants may need to travel across the UK. 

How to Apply

For more information and to apply please follow the link below. You will be asked to upload a covering letter and a CV. You will also be asked to supply the following information:

• An outline of your relevant professional experience and skills as they relate to this post.
• Your salary expectations for the role and details of your most recent/current salary.
• Your preferred office location –London, Manchester or Edinburgh
• Reference to where you have seen the advert for the role.

To apply, click here: https://jobs.sqwgroup.com/Vacancy.aspx?MenuID=6Dqy3cKIDOg=

Our closing date is 17 June 2018.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from candidates of any and all backgrounds.