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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in managing planning applications and ensuring sustainable growth.
- Company: Join Wokingham Borough Council, a top-performing local authority in the heart of Berkshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days annual leave, a local government pension, and access to a free onsite gym.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community development while working in a vibrant and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Chartered town planner with experience in complex case resolution and team leadership required.
- Other info: Applications reviewed daily; early closure possible if suitable candidates are found.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We have an excellent opportunity available for a Head of Development Management to join our team at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full time, permanent basis. As Head of Development, you will be accountable for delivering the Council’s Development Management, Planning Enforcement and Land Charges functions within Government timelines, budget and in accordance with the Council’s vision.
The Development Management service deals with nearly all planning applications in the Borough outside of the Strategic Development Locations (SDLs) which are separately managed by the Strategic Development Team. Many of these applications are for ‘householder’ development; however, a wide variety of planning applications are submitted in the Borough including change of use and conversion of buildings, changes to heritage buildings, the extension and development of new commercial, leisure and community uses and the provision of new homes.
We are seeking an ambitious and experienced town planner, with a strong track record in development management to drive high quality, sustainable growth in our area, ensuring that development aligns with our strategic priorities and delivers the best solutions for our communities.
Benefits
- A generous annual leave entitlement of 31 days (rising to 36 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays
- An excellent local government pension scheme
- An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline
- A range of local & lifestyle discounts
- Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office)
- Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes
- And much more!
Key Responsibilities
- Leading a high performing planning application team which is consistently within the top ten performing Councils in the country according to Government league tables.
- Managing the budget.
- Delivering a robust planning enforcement service.
- Overseeing the land charges functions, which processes land charges and legal queries on property transactions within the borough.
- Building strong relationships with internal departments, councillors and stakeholders to ensure a responsive and efficient service.
Candidate Requirements
- Experience of successfully resolving highly complex cases relating to the specialist area that require a significant element of judgement
- Significant understanding of the political landscape, legislative frameworks, and regional and national drivers
- Chartered town planner
- Extensive technical planning knowledge
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an ability to vary style to meet the needs of the audience
- Experience of leading a high performing team
Our Area
Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside. We’re home to a range of high performing schools including 69 primary and 21 secondary, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. We have a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.
For more information or to arrange a confidential call, please email Marcia Head, Head of Development Management, Place and Growth.
Closing date: Sunday 13th April 2025, 11pm
Interview date: TBC
Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer. Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks. Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.
Head of Development Management employer: Wokingham Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Wokingham Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development Management
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Wokingham Borough's specific planning policies and recent developments. Understanding local issues and priorities will help you demonstrate your commitment to the community during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Wokingham Borough Council, especially those in planning roles. They can provide valuable insights into the council's culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading high-performing teams and managing complex planning cases. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on national planning legislation and regional drivers that impact development management. This knowledge will not only enhance your interview performance but also show your proactive approach to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in development management and town planning. Focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead a high-performing team and manage complex cases.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to Wokingham Borough Council. Emphasise your understanding of the political landscape and how your skills align with their strategic priorities.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for this role, ensure your application is well-structured and free of errors. Use clear language and vary your style to reflect the audience you are addressing.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, provide examples of your previous work that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description, such as managing budgets, delivering planning enforcement services, and building relationships with stakeholders.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wokingham Borough Council
✨Showcase Your Planning Expertise
As a candidate for the Head of Development Management, it's crucial to demonstrate your extensive technical planning knowledge. Be prepared to discuss specific cases where you've successfully navigated complex planning applications and how your decisions aligned with legislative frameworks.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the political landscape of Wokingham Borough and the broader regional and national drivers affecting development management. This understanding will help you articulate how you can effectively lead the team in a politically sensitive environment.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Since this role involves leading a high-performing team, be ready to share examples of your leadership style and successes. Discuss how you've motivated teams, managed budgets, and delivered results in previous roles to illustrate your capability.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Building strong relationships with internal departments, councillors, and stakeholders is key. Prepare to discuss your approach to stakeholder engagement and provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with various parties to achieve common goals.
