Economic Outcomes Project Manager

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Project Manager to support delivery of our Economic Outcomes Programme. This fixed-term, part-time opportunity offers the chance to contribute to Scotland’s sustainable and inclusive economic development, while enjoying flexible working and a progressive benefits package. 

As Project Manager – Economic Outcomes, you’ll play a pivotal role in supporting local authorities and strategic partners to deliver meaningful economic improvements across Scotland. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Leading support for SLAED (Scottish Local Authorities’ Economic Development), including coordinating meetings, managing communications, and overseeing the SLAED Indicators Framework.
• Supporting the delivery of the Community Wealth Building (CWB) project – helping embed CWB principles across local authorities and foster innovation and collaboration.
• Working closely with economic development professionals, IS colleagues, and public sector stakeholders to promote best practice, develop tools and insights, and shape economic policy responses.

This is a dynamic, people-focused role with a strong emphasis on stakeholder engagement, project delivery, and clear communication.

About You

We’re seeking someone with strong project management and analytical skills, ideally with experience in economic development, public policy, or local government. The ideal candidate will bring:

• A degree (or equivalent relevant experience)
• Experience managing and delivering complex projects
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills
• A strong understanding of Scotland’s economic development landscape
• A collaborative mindset and ability to work independently

Familiarity with SLAED or Community Wealth Building is desirable but not essential.

Why Join Us?

At the Improvement Service, you’ll be part of a motivated team working to improve outcomes for people and communities across Scotland. We offer:

• Hybrid & Flexible Working
• Generous Annual Leave – 41 Days (Pro-Rata)
• Supportive, Inclusive Culture
• Commitment to Equality & Diversity
• Disability Confident Employer
• Conveniently Located HQ (Livingston)

We welcome applicants looking for a secondment opportunity.

Information

Location:

Your primary place of work will be West Lothian Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6FF but the Company reserves the right to change this to any place within 30 miles of this office. The role involves a blended model of office and home working.  Travel throughout Scotland may be required.  This flexible approach will be agreed between employee and line manager. 

Duration:

This is a temporary vacancy to provide cover for a period of 12 months. The post can be offered as a secondment.

Hours of contract:

The post is offered at 21.6 hours/3 days a week. 

Hours can be worked flexibly in agreement with the Line Manager.

Advert closing date:

 10th August 2025

Interview Date

A competence based interview will take place the week commencing 25th August.(shortlisted candidates will be advised by email a week in advance of the interview).

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

You may also find it useful to read our current Business Plan.

Background

The Improvement Service (IS) is a publicly funded company limited by guarantee, with a total annual budget in the region of £12 Million. We exist 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. 

Working for the IS means joining a team 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 forty one days per year as well as a flexible working policy. 

The IS is committed to promoting equality and diversity in all its activities to promote inclusive processes, practices and culture.

The IS is a Disability Confidence Committed Employer. We are committed to interviewing anyone with a disability who meets the essential criteria.