Area Planning Manager

Description:

Our client, a leader in the highways sector, is seeking an accomplished Area Planning Manager to join their team on a contract basis.

Key Responsibilities:

Development Management:

Determining large and complex planning applications
Providing professional planning advice on strategic development projects
Preparing reports and recommendations for planning decisions

Leadership & Management:

Directly managing Principal Planning Officers and overseeing wider planning teams
Conducting performance management, appraisals, mentoring, and staff development
Deputising for the Planning & Development Services Manager

Committee & Public Representation:

Leading as the principal officer at planning committees
Presenting reports and evidence at committees, hearings, inquiries, and meetings
Acting as the senior planning contact for elected members, applicants, and stakeholders

Stakeholder Management:

Building relationships with councillors, developers, planning agents, and consultees
Collaborating with internal departments and external partners
Handling complaints, MP enquiries, and other regulatory responses

Strategic & Senior-Level Capability:

Operating as a senior officer with autonomy
Leading projects and service improvements
Supporting the delivery of council priorities and corporate development projects
Ensuring governance, compliance, and service performance standards are met

Job Requirements:

Strong development management experience
In-depth knowledge of Town & Country Planning legislation and planning policy
Significant experience handling major planning applications
Proficiency in preparing reports and recommendations for planning decisions
Leadership skills with team management, mentoring, and staff development experience
Experience presenting reports and evidence at committees
Ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders
Experience in operating as a senior officer with strategic capabilities

Ideal Candidate Summary:

The ideal candidate would be an experienced Area Planning Manager, Development Management Manager, Principal Planning Officer, or Senior Planning Officer with local authority planning experience, team leadership, significant involvement in major planning applications, strong presentation skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with councillors, developers, and senior stakeholders.
If you are a proficient Planning Manager with experience in the highways sector, we invite you to apply now to join our client's dynamic and forward-thinking team