Greenwich launches workforce strategy to strengthen local skills pipeline

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is rolling out a fresh approach to workforce development, with a new strategy covering 2025 to 2029 aimed at improving skills, leadership and job opportunities for residents.

New roles and a strategic vision

Greenwich employs 3,672 people and is now recruiting for a permanent Workforce Development Lead, with a salary between £49,056 and £52,194, to design learning initiatives for the Health and Adult Services directorate, according to the council’s job listings [1][2]. A Workforce Development Support Officer is also being sought to support social work training through the Practice Academy [5]. These positions are part of a broader strategy to build a capable, flexible workforce that can adapt to changing demands across the borough [3].

Trailblazers and the visitor economy

One of the early initiatives under the new strategy is the 'Trailblazers' program, launched in 2025 as part of the Mayor of London's 'Get Britain Working' plan. The scheme has secured 69 fully funded, six-month placements for economically inactive residents in sectors including retail, digital and construction, with participants paid the London Living Wage [3]. At the same time, the borough is tackling a 30% annual staff attrition rate in the visitor economy by using the Adult Education Budget for flexible skills development and securing local recruitment commitments through Section 106 agreements, according to council reports [4][7].

Partnerships with colleges and the university

Workforce development in Greenwich is underpinned by partnerships with local education providers, including London South East Colleges and the University of Greenwich, as well as the South East London Workforce Development Hub (SELWDH), which serves six boroughs including Greenwich [5][6]. These collaborations help ensure that training programs align with the needs of local employers and provide residents with clear pathways into work. The Greenwich Learns platform also connects residents to courses and career advice, supporting lifelong learning across the borough [6].

With the new strategy now in early implementation, the borough appears focused on creating a more resilient local labour market. The coming years will show how effectively these programs can reduce skills gaps and improve employment outcomes for Greenwich residents.

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