Project Officer

Shape the Future of Ashford We are looking for an experienced Project Officer to join our Commercial Projects Team and help deliver a diverse portfolio of exciting projects that make a real difference to our communities. From enhancing open spaces and play areas to supporting commercial developments, leisure facilities, community assets, and property projects, this is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. Working closely with colleagues across the Council, consultants, contractors, councillors, parish councils and local communities, you will play a key role in turning ideas into successful outcomes, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the highest standards. You will be responsible for managing and delivering a range of projects from inception through to completion, along with:

• Undertaking feasibility studies, project appraisals and evaluations to support decision-making.
• Monitoring project performance using the Council's project management framework and Pentana.
• Managing consultants, contractors and suppliers to ensure effective project delivery.
• Supporting procurement activities, contract management and budget monitoring.
• Identifying and managing project risks, issues and changes throughout the project lifecycle.
• Leading public consultation exercises, community engagement events and stakeholder workshops.
• Producing reports, recommendations and project updates for management and decision makers.
  
  To thrive in this role it is essential that you are confident and organised and can successfully manage competing priorities while building positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, along with having:
• Recent experience of successfully delivering projects and achieving project outcomes.
• Experience of project, procurement and contract management.
• Experience of managing consultants and contractors.
• Experience of partnership working with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
This is an opportunity to work on projects that have a lasting impact on the Borough and its residents. You will be part of a supportive team, working with experienced professionals across a variety of disciplines and helping to shape the future of Ashford.

Hybrid Working - We are an organisation that puts people first and understands how important employee wellbeing is. We want to help you to balance your working life and home life and offer flexible ways of working to help structure your life in a positive and productive way; both at home and in the office. This maximises personal development and collaborative working. Competitive remuneration package - We offer an excellent salary linked pension scheme, generous annual leave with flexi time, free life insurance, supportive relocation package and opportunities for training and development. With devolution news and talks evolving across the country for local authorities, we understand that there may be some uncertainty for those currently serving within the sector. Local Government Reorganisation proposals have been announced on the 16 July 2026 and Kent, Medway and all District and Borough Councils in the South East will continue to work closely with each other to deliver vital services to our communities. This is an exciting, but stable time to join our organisation. Ashford Borough Council recognises the need to ensure the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults when they come into contact with the services we provide We welcome applications form the Armed Forces Community