Position: Development manager
Location: Thurso or Golspie
Starting salary: £37,989 per annum. Potential salary progression to £42,947 per annum. Excellent pension and benefits package.
Contract/hours: Permanent, full-time, 35 hours per week
The role
We’re looking for a proactive and collaborative development manager to join our Caithness and Sutherland area team, helping local businesses and other clients realise their growth ambitions and supporting sustainable economic development across the area.
As a key member of the team, you will develop strong relationships with a portfolio of clients across Caithness and Sutherland, understanding their challenges, opportunities and ambitions for sustainable growth.
You will identify and coordinate appropriate HIE products, services and wider sources of support, working closely with colleagues, sector teams and partner organisations. You will support clients to progress fair work and net zero outcomes through routine client and project discussions, and develop, appraise and manage a portfolio of projects in line with HIE governance and assurance requirements.
You will also build productive relationships with project partners and key funders, contribute to economic and community development partnership activity, and help deliver business, sector and regional development events and programmes.
The person
You’ll bring client-facing experience from a private, public or third sector organisation, together with experience of managing competing priorities, working to deadlines and operating in an environment with high standards of governance and accountability.
You’ll be a strong communicator with the confidence to build effective relationships, influence others and work collaboratively. You’ll also have a proactive, solution-focused approach, sound analytical and financial appraisal skills, and a keen interest in business and economic development.
See the job description and person specification.
How to apply
To apply please complete our online application form.
Online application form
Job reference: 1157
Closing date: Wednesday 28 October 2026
Interviews: w/c 2 November 2026
