Overview

Tees Valley is where five distinct boroughs come together as a dynamic destination for investment, living, working and visiting. The Tees Valley Combined Authority has taken devolved responsibilities from Government for transport, infrastructure, skills, business investment, culture, tourism and housing. The area has a ten-year investment plan with substantial funding intended to support job creation and growth in economic output.

The investment plan, aligned with the Combined Authority’s Strategic Economic Plan, includes the development of major transformational projects across the boroughs and a Growth Fund to revitalise towns and communities. Tees Valley today is known for its rail and engineering industries, deep-sea port, advanced manufacturing, digital and creative technologies, and leadership in process industries and energy. The region combines industrial strength with diverse cultural and economic growth, framed by rolling green landscapes and coastlines.

We are seeking a visionary and strategic Business Solutions Director to lead the Business Solutions Directorate at Tees Valley Combined Authority. This is a senior leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, with responsibility for delivering across three key areas: Business Solutions, Creative Place, and Net Zero.

You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Tees Valley, driving economic growth, and ensuring the region is recognised nationally and internationally as a prime location for business investment and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the Business Solutions Directorate.
• Lead engagement with the business community, delivering high-quality support and promoting Tees Valley as the best place to start and grow a business.
• Develop and implement inward investment strategies, integrating services across skills, culture, and place.
• Oversee the delivery of the Creative Place programme, investing in cultural assets and activities.
• Champion the region’s Net Zero ambitions, embedding sustainability across all directorate functions.
• Act as the senior advisor to the CEO and Mayor on business-related matters.
• Represent the Authority at executive level, building strong relationships with stakeholders, government departments, and the private sector.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive as required.

About You

• You will be a dynamic and experienced leader with:
• A proven track record with experience in a relevant field.
• Expertise in business development, inward investment, and strategic programme delivery.
• Strong political awareness and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills.
• A commitment to excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Please visit the Supporting Documents section for the Job Description, Competency Framework and Benefits Booklet. Applications should include a cover letter demonstrating alignment to the Competency Framework attached. Leadership & Direction - Communication & Influence - Experience & Technical - Responsibility & Accountability.

Our Benefits

• Hybrid/Flexible working
• 27 Days annual leave, increasing to 32 days after 5 years service
• Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Access to Private Counselling Sessions
• Access to PhysioTherapySessions
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Car Lease Scheme
• Free Parking
• On Site Café with staff Discount & more!

TVCA is proud to hold Disability Confident Leader status, with initiatives to support applicants with disabilities. If you require a different format of application, please email TVCAHR@teesvalley-ca.gov.uk or call 0734 1476 372.

As proud supporters of the Armed Forces Covenant, we are committed to helping veterans find and secure employment opportunities, including a guaranteed interview to those who meet the minimum criteria for the role.

Please note you should hear from us within four weeks of the closing date if shortlisted for interview; otherwise please assume your application has been unsuccessful. Please complete our Equality, Inclusion, and Diversity questionnaire. See our Privacy Policy for keeping your personal information safe.

Applications for this post will close midday on Monday 13th October. Interviews will be held on the 5th of November.