Head of Investment and Growth
Be at the forefront of one of the UK's most exciting economic and energy transition programmes.
The Highlands of Scotland are on the cusp of transformational growth. With internationally significant offshore wind, hydrogen, port, manufacturing and infrastructure developments underway, the Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport is helping to shape the future of sustainable investment and regional prosperity.
As one of Scotland's two Green Freeports, we are attracting international interest and creating the conditions for long-term economic growth, high-quality jobs and lasting social impact across the Highlands and beyond.
We're now seeking an ambitious and commercially focused Head of Investment & Growth to play a pivotal role in turning opportunity into reality.
The Opportunity
This is far more than a traditional economic development role. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will lead the Green Freeport's investment and growth agenda, helping secure major inward investment, unlocking development opportunities and supporting projects that can transform the economic future of the region.
You will work at the intersection of business, government, infrastructure and innovation, engaging with investors, developers, landowners, public agencies and strategic partners to bring investment opportunities from concept through to delivery.
Whether supporting international investors, developing compelling investment propositions, overseeing strategic funding programmes or helping remove barriers to development, your work will have a direct and lasting impact on the Highlands' contribution to the UK's energy transition.
What You'll Be Doing
You'll play a leading role in:
· Building and managing a pipeline of inward investment opportunities.
· Developing investment propositions that showcase the Green Freeport's unique strengths and competitive advantages.
· Supporting investors and developers from first engagement through to project delivery.
· Working closely with tax site landowners, developers and key stakeholders to bring forward strategic developments.
· Leading major investment programmes, including Seed Capital and retained Non-Domestic Rates initiatives.
· Identifying and overcoming barriers to development and infrastructure delivery.
· Providing commercial insight, market intelligence and strategic recommendations.
· Representing the organisation at senior-level meetings, investment events and industry forums.
· Preparing high-quality business cases, Board papers and investment reports.
· Contributing as a key member of the senior management team to the future direction of the Green Freeport.
About You
You'll be a strategic thinker with strong commercial instincts and a track record of delivering complex projects and investment opportunities.
You are likely to have gained experience in inward investment, economic development, infrastructure, property, energy, commercial development or a related sector. Most importantly, you will understand how to bring together diverse stakeholders, navigate complexity and drive projects forward.
You will bring:
· Significant experience in investment, development or major project environments.
· Strong commercial acumen and economic development judgement.
· Exceptional relationship-building and influencing skills.
· Experience managing programmes, projects or significant budgets.
· The ability to develop compelling business cases and investment propositions.
· Confidence working with investors, senior leaders, Boards and public-sector partners.
· A collaborative and pragmatic approach, balanced with strong delivery focus and accountability.
Experience within sectors such as energy, offshore wind, ports, manufacturing, life sciences, infrastructure or commercial property would be particularly valuable. Knowledge of Green Freeports, public-sector investment programmes or economic development initiatives would also be advantageous.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to influence a nationally significant programme at a critical stage of its development.
You will have the chance to:
· Shape investment decisions that will influence the region for decades.
· Work alongside industry leaders, investors and government stakeholders.
· Contribute directly to Scotland's energy transition ambitions.
· Drive economic growth, job creation and infrastructure development across the Highlands.
· Be part of a high-profile organisation with a clear mission and real purpose.
Salary & Location
Salary: £68,000 per annum plus competitive benefits package.
Location: Inverness with hybrid working arrangements and regular travel across the Green Freeport area.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We value integrity, inclusion and equality, and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
If you are excited by the prospect of helping shape one of the UK's most ambitious investment and energy transition programmes, we would love to hear from you.
Submit your CV and a supporting statement demonstrating how your experience aligns with the requirements of the role.