Salary: £38,220 to £39,152 per annum

Hours: 37 hours per week

Location: Carlisle

Contract: Permanent

About this opportunity

Cumberland Council are looking to recruit a proactive Business Advisor. This role offers the chance to make a real impact on outcomes for children and young people across Cumberland. As part of the Early Years and Sufficiency Team, you will support early years and childcare providers to develop sustainable business plans that underpin high‑quality childcare.

You will also support the implementation of current and future government childcare expansion programmes, in supporting new and existing providers to create additional childcare places for children age 0-14 years. You will help providers to strengthen their financial management, identify training needs, and access specialist support where required. The role includes delivering Business Health Checks, guiding providers in securing revenue and capital funding, and offering practical advice and training.

This role is available on a permanent basis.

This role is based at Cumbria House, Carlisle with the option to work from home 3 days per week.

Why join us?

• Relocation support may be available for this role, subject to eligibility – We know moving for a role is a big decision, so we’re here to make it easier.
• A lifestyle you won’t find elsewhere – Living and working in Cumbria offers the best of both worlds. You’ll have a fulfilling and rewarding career while being surrounded by stunning landscapes, from the world-famous Lake District National Park to unspoilt coastlines and vibrant market towns. Whether you enjoy hiking, water sports, cycling, or simply relaxing in a picturesque setting, Cumbria provides an outstanding quality of life.
• Supportive environment – You’ll be part of a team that values collaboration, compassion, and innovation. We focus on potential over perfection, giving you opportunities to develop your skills and grow your career.

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities.

We’re also about potential over perfection and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career.

Be sure to take a look at the post specification (below) for the essential criteria for this role.

Contact

For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Teresa Barrowclough by email at teresa.barrowclough@cumberland.gov.uk

Guaranteed Interviews

We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role.

• Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
• Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
• Those who identify as a member of the British Armed Forces community (service leavers, veterans, their partners or spouses, reservists, cadets).

If you meet one or more of the criteria above, and wish to be considered for this scheme, select 'yes' to the appropriate question during your application. Find out more.

Diversity, Inclusion & Adjustments

We’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.

If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and we’ll try our best to accommodate your needs.

Application and Interview information

• Closing date: 26.04.26
• Interview date: To be confirmed

If you experience any difficulties logging in to apply for this role, please contact the HR Systems team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk.z

Please note this role may close early subject to demand. If you’re interested in applying, you should apply well before the advised closing date. We cannot accept applications once the role has closed.

Please read the supporting information:

• Post Specification

Please also refer to our Careers site to find out more:

• Our Staff Benefits
• Candidate Support
• About Cumberland Council