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- Tasks: Lead planning and economic growth initiatives in a rapidly developing area.
- Company: Central Bedfordshire Council, focused on modernisation and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of communities and make a lasting impact on local development.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic planning and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant influence on local growth and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 95953 - 106769 £ per year.
Salary: £95,953 – £106,769 + MRS of up to £13,000 for qualified planners.
Location: You will be expected to attend a CBC office location as often as needed to carry out your role, which will be no less than twice per month.
Contract Type: Hybrid - Permanent.
Closing Date: 8th February 2026.
Interview Date: The interview process will consist of a 1st stage technical interview to take place at the end of February 2026 and if successful at this stage candidates will progress to an in-person formal interview at Priory House, Shefford in early March 2026. Exact dates will be confirmed as soon as possible.
More about the role:
Central Bedfordshire is growing fast. More than 2000 new homes are being delivered each year. We are central in the Ox Cam Corridor and the choices made now will shape the place for decades. The M1, A1, East Coast Mainline and Midland Mainline give great connectivity north and south, all of which will be bolstered by East West Rail and make the area even more important to growth opportunities – you will play a major role in managing these to the benefit of the area. Universal Studios has just received planning permission. We await the government’s announcement on New Towns.
As Service Director – Development & Economy, you will lead the council’s approach to planning, development, and economic growth at a pivotal point. This is a role that sits at the heart of the organisation’s relationship with its future. You will be responsible for shaping how growth happens, where it happens, and how it delivers real benefit for communities.
Overseeing planning and development services that manage complex applications, you will have demonstrable successful strategic and operational planning experience. You will work with members, developers, communities, and partners to navigate competing priorities and unlock development that is viable and aligned with the council’s ambitions. Alongside this, you will provide leadership on economic development, helping to support jobs, skills, and investment across a diverse and evolving area.
Central Bedfordshire is not a blank canvas. It is made up of villages, market towns, new settlements, and established communities, each with their own concerns and aspirations. This role requires someone who can hold that complexity, who understands that growth is as much about trust and legitimacy as it is about policy and process.
You will need to be politically astute and able to advise Members, contribute to corporate leadership, and represent the council externally. Central Bedfordshire doesn’t stand still and is focused on modernising and being efficient alongside outstanding service delivery. You will need to be ready to embrace change.
This is a role for someone motivated by shaping real places and long-term outcomes. Central Bedfordshire offers scale, pace, and the opportunity to leave a lasting imprint on a growing authority.
Service Director - Development & Economy in Campton employer: Central Bedfordshire Council
Contact Detail:
Central Bedfordshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Director - Development & Economy in Campton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Central Bedfordshire's recent projects and future plans. This will help us tailor our conversations during interviews and show that we're genuinely interested in shaping the area’s growth.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events related to planning and development. Building relationships can give us insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Practice answering questions about strategic planning and community engagement. We want to showcase our experience and how it aligns with the council’s ambitions for economic growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of our application status easily and stay updated on any new opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Director - Development & Economy in Campton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Service Director – Development & Economy. We want to see how you can contribute to shaping growth in Central Bedfordshire, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point while still reflecting your personality and passion for the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As this role involves significant leadership responsibilities, make sure to highlight your strategic and operational planning experience. We’re looking for examples of how you've successfully navigated complex situations and built trust with stakeholders in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Central Bedfordshire Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of planning, development, and economic growth. Brush up on Central Bedfordshire’s current projects and future plans, especially regarding the Ox Cam Corridor. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous strategic and operational planning experiences in detail. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to manage complex applications and navigate competing priorities. This is your chance to demonstrate how your background aligns with the council's ambitions.
✨Be Politically Savvy
Understand the political landscape and be ready to discuss how you would advise members and contribute to corporate leadership. Think about how you can build trust and legitimacy within the community, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Embrace Change
Central Bedfordshire is focused on modernising and improving efficiency. Be prepared to talk about how you’ve successfully embraced change in your previous roles and how you plan to lead similar initiatives in this position.
