Head of Planning

Shape the future of one of the UK's most ambitious growth programmes. We're delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a forward-thinking local authority for an experienced Head of Planning. This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-performing planning service at the forefront of major housing growth, regeneration and infrastructure delivery, making a lasting impact on communities across the region. With significant residential and employment growth planned over the next 15 years, including a major new settlement, this is a strategic leadership role offering the chance to influence large-scale development, drive regeneration projects and work with a wide range of public and private sector partners. The Role As Head of Planning, you will provide strategic leadership across Development Management, Planning Enforcement and Planning Support, ensuring the effective integration of planning services with wider regeneration, infrastructure and economic growth programmes. You will lead the delivery of complex and high-profile development projects, working collaboratively with development partners, landowners, registered providers, Homes England, government agencies and infrastructure providers to unlock sustainable growth and investment. Operating within a politically sensitive environment, you will provide balanced, commercially aware professional advice to elected Members, senior leaders and external stakeholders on strategic planning matters. You'll also play a key role in driving service improvement, developing partnerships and ensuring the delivery of an efficient, customer-focused planning service. About You To be successful, you will have: * A recognised planning qualification and full RTPI Membership. * Extensive knowledge of planning law, policy and practice. * Experience leading planning teams and delivering major developments and regeneration schemes. * The ability to balance planning, commercial, legal and political considerations when making strategic recommendations. * A proven track record of building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. * Inspirational leadership and people management skills. * Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and planning-related systems. * An appreciation of good design and experience negotiating planning obligations. * A commitment to delivering high-quality customer service and continuous improvement. What's on Offer? This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced planning professional looking to take the next step in their career within an ambitious, award-winning planning service. You'll have the opportunity to influence major growth and regeneration projects while leading an experienced and highly regarded team. The role requires attendance at Planning Committee meetings and site visits, so flexibility, a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential. If you're ready to play a leading role in shaping sustainable communities and delivering transformational growth, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion