Business Engagement and Grants Officer

About the role

The Business Engagement and Grants Officer will join the Economic Development team to help revitalise Elmbridge’s town and village high streets. The role focuses on direct outreach to independent businesses and SMEs, delivering grant programmes and supporting a thriving local trading environment.

Key responsibilities

• Act as a visible presence on high streets, engaging with retailers, hospitality, leisure and service businesses.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with independent business owners, BIDs, chambers of commerce and other business groups.
• Promote, administer and deliver over £100,000 of business‑facing grants covering shopfront improvements, empty‑unit activation, online trading support, energy‑efficiency measures and outdoor seating.
• Develop and publish grant‑related communications, including newsletters, website content and social‑media campaigns.
• Serve as the first point of contact for grant enquiries and signpost businesses to wider council services such as planning, licensing, environmental health, waste and business rates.
• Collaborate with internal teams (Planning, Environmental Health, Licensing, Property Services, Parking, Communications) to provide joined‑up support.
• Represent the council at business meetings, workshops and community events.

Required profile

• Experience working with independent businesses, SMEs, BIDs or chambers of commerce.
• Demonstrated ability to engage proactively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills for producing newsletters, website updates and social‑media content.
• Knowledge of local grant schemes and the high‑street trading environment.

Required skills