Head of Help to Grow: Management Programme


Company:	Government Recruitment Service
Salary:	£73,025 to £85,106 a year
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Darlington
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	16 Oct 2026
Closing date:	25 Oct 2026

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Summary

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic leader to head up the Help to Grow: Management programme, the Government's flagship leadership and management programme for SME business leaders.

This is a high-profile leadership role at the heart of business support policy. You will lead the team responsible for the policy direction and strategic oversight of Help to Grow: Management, ensuring the programme continues to support business growth, productivity and leadership capability across the UK.

The role offers a unique opportunity to shape and influence one of the Government's most significant small business support programmes.

You will work closely with ministers, senior officials, delivery partners and external stakeholders to ensure the programme delivers maximum impact for SMEs across the UK.

You will also provide leadership and oversight to Small Business Growth's strategic priorities and private office teams.

As Head of Help to Grow: Management, you will:

Lead and manage the team responsible for the policy approach to the Help to Grow: Management programme and ensure alignment with the Government’s key priority to deliver good growth in every postcode.
Work closely with delivery partners to generate significant demand for the programme and maximise its impact.
Support the development of a strong mentoring offer both within the programme and through active engagement with the National Business Mentoring Council.
Build and maintain effective relationships with ministers, senior leaders and key external stakeholders.
Provide clear, high-quality written and verbal briefing to ministers and senior officials.
Provide exceptional leadership through change and create a positive, high-performing team culture focused on delivery and impact.

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