Head of Strategic Planning
£57,654 - £65,403 per annum + up to £5,000 market supplement
Are you ready to play a critical role in shaping the future of a vibrant region with transformative projects and ambitious planning goals?
South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council are seeking a visionary, creative and driven individual to join our award-winning leadership team as Head of Strategic Planning. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in driving forward our future strategic planning ambitions and make a lasting impact on our shared communities.
As Head of Strategic Planning, you will oversee and direct the councils’ joint strategic planning team. You have the opportunity to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence, and further develop our strategic planning initiatives, aligning our shared goals and driving sustainable growth. In this crucial role, you’ll be at the forefront of executing our technical planning schemes, steering the direction of planning initiatives aligned to our shared vision for sustainable growth and development. You will lead the charge on determining the best option for developing a new local – or regional - plan in response to the Government’s new guidance. Your role will involve close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to coordinate and harmonise planning efforts across the region.
We’re looking for a strategic thinker, who, through a sound understanding of the everchanging planning landscape, can take ownership of shaping and leading our new approach to strategic planning. You will be the councils’ strategic planning expert and will guide us to successfully address the challenges our communities face, including housing affordability, employment, environmental constraints, and protecting our unique identity.
Your expertise will be crucial in shaping planning policies that promote economic development, environmental sustainability, and our communities’ well-being. You will ensure all related planning activities meet the highest standards of service delivery, efficiency, and regulatory compliance, driving continuous improvement and innovation within the planning teams.
About you
To succeed, you will have proven planning experience in a senior strategic role, alongside a strong track record of delivering successful planning projects. Exceptional people management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate our fantastic teams, is essential. Visionary thinking and problem-solving abilities, coupled with stakeholder engagement skills, will be key. A deep understanding of planning policies, regulations, and best practices, along with a commitment to sustainable development and community-focused planning, will set you apart.
Why join us?
As part of an award-winning joint management team, you will work on ground-breaking initiatives. We are proud of our workforce, which is known for excellence and innovation, and you will play an active role in the development of teams in this context. Part of this will be your ongoing professional development opportunities and a supportive work environment, all while making a real difference to the residents of South Hams and West Devon.
If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and contribute to the future success of South West Devon, we want to hear from you.
Important Documents
Key Contacts
For a confidential discussion about this role, please contact the following consultants at our recruitment partner, Tile Hill, who will be happy to answer any questions that are not covered here: