Advanced Certificate in Economic Development: Tom Jenkins, Economic Development Manager, Ashford Borough Council

Why did you sign up for the Advanced Certificate?

“I signed up for the Advanced Certificate in Economic Development because I felt it would formalise and complement the knowledge I have built up over the years. The blend of practical and strategic topics was of interest to me in order to continue my professional development.”

What have been key benefits/impacts of the programme on you and your organisation, or what do you expect them to be in the future?

“The benefit for me has been to better understand concepts like inclusive and clean growth, whilst also learning about Green Book business cases and funding bids. It also helps to understand some of the context of the IED’s Grow Local, Grow National manifesto. The impact for my organisation will be that I can apply what I have learnt to ensure policies, plans and strategies are considered in a more rounded way and that there is more resilience in the team to support funding bids.”

Was there a particular stand-out, highlight, or value add from the Advanced Certificate?

“The main highlight for me personally was receiving formal and structured learning about Green Book business cases, writing successful funding bids, and how bids are appraised.”

What gap does the programme fill from a CPD perspective?

“It brings nearly all aspects of economic development together into one set of learning meaning that participants are able to consider concepts like clean growth, social value or R&D-backed growth.”

How does it feel to have completed the Advanced Certificate, and would you recommend it to others?

“It feels good to have achieved this certificate and shows that setting some time aside in our busy schedules can be very rewarding and valuable. I would definitely recommend the programme for anyone working in economic development as a great way to enhance their knowledge as well as the IED’s Early Career Network.”

Case study developed: February 2025