At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning initiatives to shape sustainable communities and drive impactful development.
- Company: Join Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, dedicated to community growth and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, competitive pension, wellbeing support, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Embrace a hybrid work culture that values diversity and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in community development while championing sustainability and design excellence.
- Qualifications: Five years' experience in planning and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40582 - 49600 £ per year.
This role is open to full time, part time, and job share applications, all of which will be assessed equally. Join our team as Planning Lead for Development Management, known internally as the Strategic and Professional Lead for Development Management, you will work at the centre of the councils' growth and placemaking agenda. If you share our values and you are motivated to make a difference for our residents, clients, and communities, we would love to hear from you.
About the role
We relish a challenge and we believe the significant expectations placed on us to deliver new homes and business is also an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy which will also shape the future of the districts. Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, your role will place you at the centre of this agenda, helping to support inclusive growth, climate resilience, our environmental ambitions and the creation of high-quality places for communities.
Responsibilities will include:
- developing strategies for complex development proposals
- championing exemplary design and placemaking
- leading and managing the representation of the councils at appeal or in major and complex planning proceedings to safeguard robust decision making, which meets the high standards we expect
- production and delivery of the Service Plan and associated business, service improvement and project plans
- working with and supporting our communities to play their part in delivering the councils' vision for sustainable growth
- building strong and productive relationships with internal teams and external partners
- supporting and mentoring team members with continuous professional development
About you
We are looking for a professional leader who will champion exemplary design and sustainable placemaking.
Key skills and experience:
- at least five years' post-qualification experience and eligibility for membership of an appropriate professional body
- sound knowledge of planning legislation, the NPPF and local and community policies
- exemplary written and verbal communication skills
- a creative and pragmatic approach to delivering the best outcomes possible with people and local communities at the forefront of these outcomes
- a commitment to mentoring and supporting staff to be the best they can be at all times
- a commitment to our values and behaviours and our culture of continuous improvement
About us
At Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils we are passionate about building communities that people want to live, work, visit and invest in. We serve around 200,000 residents across our two districts and are well known for our collaboration and partnership working across public, private and voluntary sectors. We believe that the heart of Suffolk is an incredibly special place to live and work, with:
- 60 conservation areas
- two National Landscapes
- many picturesque market towns
It is no surprise we are ranked among the top 50 places to live in the UK.
Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Generous leave entitlement (26 days a year, rising to 31 days after 5 years)
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme
- Wellbeing Support and Employee Assistance Programs
- Private Health Care Options
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
- Paid volunteering days
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (Business needs permitting)
- Great learning and development opportunities
Our ways of working
We believe work is what we do, not just where we go. We work in a hybrid way, with a mix of office, home, and remote based working (Business need permitting). Our hybrid working arrangements support flexibility and collaboration, helping our teams to thrive. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, providing opportunity and ambition for all, supporting and enabling our people to deliver the best possible services for our residents.
Closing date: 5 pm, 24 November 2026.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Planning Lead for Development Management employer: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils offer a supportive and inclusive work environment, where employees are valued and encouraged to grow professionally. With flexible working options and a commitment to employee development, this role as an Insurance Analyst provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the community while enjoying a competitive salary and a healthy work-life balance.
Contact Details:
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Lead for Development Management
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We think you need these skills to ace Planning Lead for Development Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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