Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire
Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire

Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire

Coleford Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the Local Plan and shape the future of Forest of Dean.
  • Company: Join Forest of Dean District Council, dedicated to sustainable community development.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive health plan.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities while working in a collaborative environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in Forward Planning and strong strategic thinking required.
  • Other info: Politically restricted role; must have a full UK driving licence.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

An exciting time to join Forest of Dean District Council

Forest of Dean District Council is passionate about creating a vibrant and sustainable future for our communities. Our priorities are centred on fostering resilient and inclusive communitiesthat are motivated and competent to adapt to the challenges andopportunities ahead. We are committed to decarbonisation and nature recovery, with a view to protecting and enhancing our superb natural environment. Additionally, we strive to build a sustainable economy through the promotion of a circular economy, robust business support, workforce skill development, sustainable town initiatives, and the preservation of natural capital.

Our range of place shaping services are fundamental to the success of the councils ambition for a Fairer Greener Forest. Our focus is on sustainable development to enable our existing communities and future generations to thrive, creating great places for people to live, work, learn and enjoy in our ever-evolving communities. Now is a fantastic time to be joining us as we reach a critical stage in our local plan review and our place shaping work for the benefit of the local area and beyond.

About the role

We are now seeking a dynamic and strategic Forward Planning Manager to lead and deliver our Local Plan and broader place-shaping ambitions. This is a pivotal opportunity for an experienced planning professional to take ownership of the Councils forward planning function leading on the preparation, delivery, monitoring, and review of the Local Plan and associated policy documents that will guide our district through change and opportunity.

As Forward Planning Manager, you will play a central role in shaping the long-term development of the Forest of Dean. You will lead a team of planners, drawing in specialists and consultants to deliver robust, effective, and locally distinctive planning policy in line with statutory requirements and corporate goals.

Key responsibilities

Leading and project managing the production of the Local Plan and related documents, including evidence base, research, and monitoring.

Providing clear leadership to staff, managing team resources and workloads, and promoting a collaborative and inclusive culture.

Working cross-functionally with services such as development management, ecology, climate change, strategic housing, and communications to align planning policy with wider priorities.

Applying best-practice project and performance management techniques to ensure timely delivery of plan-making milestones and targets.

Overseeing the team budget, recruitment, and staff development, while identifying and securing additional funding opportunities to enhance digital planning and engagement processes.

Preparing and presenting reports and recommendations to Council Cabinet, Committees, and Portfolio Holders, and acting as expert witness at Local Plan examinations, appeals, and hearings.

Leading the Councils engagement in discussions and ensuring strategic planning issues with neighbouring Councils and partner organisations.

What Were Looking For

Proven experience working across Forward Planning functions.

A strategic mindset with the ability to identify and drive collaborative opportunities with neighbouring authorities and key stakeholders.

Political sensitivity and confidence engaging with elected members, communities, town and parish councils, and developers.

A deep understanding of strategic planning frameworks including cross-boundary planning.

Strong foresight and the ability to scan for future policy, legal, or regulatory changes and respond appropriately.

Up-to-date knowledge of planning legislation and the ability to lead the Councils response to legal or policy changes.

Strong digital awareness and enthusiasm for driving innovation and service improvement through technology.

Special Conditions

  • Full UK Driving License with access to a vehicle for work purposes
  • BPSS
  • This post designated as politically restricted in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Politically restricted post holders are restricted from canvassing on behalf of a political party or for a person who is, or seeks to be, a candidate for election to a local authority, the House of Commons, or the European Parliament.

For more information about this role please see the Job Description/Person Specification.

What can we do for you

Agile working allowing a mix of home and office working

Flexible working arrangements (depending on the role)

27 days paid annual leave (pro rata if you are working part time) plus bank holidays, which increases to 30 days after five years of service

In addition you will have an extra two volunteering days a year for you to support a charity of your choice

Renewed again for another year there is a Health cash plan giving you cash back on health, dental and eye care

Generous contributory local government pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme 24/7, providing positive, preventative and supportive advice and counselling to deal with everyday events and issues

Cycle to work scheme

Salary sacrifice car lease scheme with significant tax and NI savings to be made on electric cars

Generous sickness cover above statutory entitlements

Terms and conditions apply

If you feel this is the role is for you please click apply now and upload your CV and supporting statement detailing how you meet the criteria.

Your application will not be considered if you have not provided a supporting statement, in addition to your CV.

Accredited of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies – Please state this within your covering statement or in a separate email.

Safer recruitment practices are applied to all job vacancies. Successful candidates will be required to complete a pre-employment medical questionnaire; provide references;proof of identity; nationality and immigration status; three years employment or education history (if applicable) and, in some cases, verification of criminal record.

Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire employer: Forest of Dean District Council

Joining the Forest of Dean District Council as a Forward Planning Manager offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a vibrant and sustainable future for our communities. With a strong commitment to decarbonisation, nature recovery, and fostering resilient communities, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional growth and innovation. The council provides flexible working arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and a supportive environment that encourages personal development while making a meaningful impact on the local area.
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Contact Detail:

Forest of Dean District Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the Forest of Dean District Council's current Local Plan and any recent updates. Understanding their strategic priorities will help you align your experience and ideas with their goals during discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have worked with local councils. Attend relevant events or webinars to gain insights into best practices and current challenges in forward planning.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience in leading teams and managing projects effectively. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex planning issues or collaborated with multiple stakeholders.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on the latest planning legislation and policy changes that could impact the role. Demonstrating your knowledge of these developments will show your commitment to the position and your proactive approach to the field.

We think you need these skills to ace Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire

Strategic Planning
Project Management
Team Leadership
Stakeholder Engagement
Policy Development
Cross-Boundary Planning
Budget Management
Research and Evidence Gathering
Communication Skills
Political Sensitivity
Digital Innovation
Performance Management
Knowledge of Planning Legislation
Collaboration Skills
Foresight and Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements for the Forward Planning Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in sustainable development and strategic planning.

Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Clearly outline how you meet the criteria listed in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in project management, collaboration, and strategic thinking.

Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your proven experience in forward planning functions. Discuss any previous roles where you led teams or managed projects related to local planning, policy development, or community engagement, as these are key aspects of the role.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-structured and easy to read. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at Forest of Dean District Council

✨Understand the Local Plan

Make sure you have a solid grasp of the current Local Plan and any ongoing reviews. Familiarise yourself with the key priorities of the Forest of Dean District Council, especially around sustainability and community engagement, as this will show your commitment to their goals.

✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset

Prepare examples that demonstrate your strategic thinking and ability to drive collaborative opportunities. Discuss past experiences where you've successfully worked with multiple stakeholders, particularly in planning or policy development.

✨Be Ready for Political Sensitivity

Given the nature of the role, be prepared to discuss how you would navigate political sensitivities. Think about instances where you've engaged with elected members or community groups, and how you managed differing opinions while maintaining a focus on the council's objectives.

✨Highlight Your Digital Awareness

With a focus on innovation and service improvement through technology, be ready to talk about your experience with digital tools in planning. Share specific examples of how you've used technology to enhance planning processes or community engagement.

Forward Planning Manager in Coleford, Gloucestershire
Forest of Dean District Council
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