At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning and development services, driving transformation and service improvement.
- Company: Halton Borough Council, a progressive local authority with a focus on community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and the chance to influence local policy.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to continuous improvement and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in local governance and shape future planning strategies.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education in Planning or related field and extensive management experience.
The predicted salary is between 78000 - 78000 € per year.
Halton Borough Council is seeking an experienced and strategic Interim Head of Service - Planning & Development to lead a broad portfolio of high-profile planning, development and regulatory services during a key period of delivery and transformation. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior local government professional with extensive leadership experience across planning and development functions to make a significant impact within a progressive local authority.
The Role
Reporting to the Operational Director, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across the Council's:
- Development Management and Enforcement
- Building Control
- Contaminated Land
- Local Plan
- Transport Strategy
You will ensure services meet all statutory obligations, operational requirements, agreed performance targets and budgetary expectations, while driving forward service improvement and policy development.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver agreed programmes of activity across the service areas in consultation with the Operational Director.
- Oversee implementation of strategic, policy and operational priorities, reporting to senior management, elected members and partnership bodies.
- Represent the Council as the Local Planning Authority in negotiations with developers, external meetings, public inquiries, court proceedings and Ombudsman investigations.
- Lead on the development and delivery of evidence-based planning and transport policies and strategies.
- Maintain and progress the Local Development Scheme and relevant transport planning strategies in line with Council, Combined Authority and Northern Powerhouse priorities.
- Build effective relationships with national, regional and European bodies to influence future planning policy and legislation.
- Oversee key external service contracts, including: Merseyside Environmental Advisory Service, Cheshire West and Chester Heritage and Conservation Advice, Building Control collaboration with Knowsley Borough Council.
- Provide leadership and direction to all staff within the Division, ensuring effective application of HR policies and maintaining professional competency standards.
- Take responsibility for financial monitoring, budget management and reporting across the Division.
- Support organisational change and continuous service improvement initiatives.
About You
To be considered for this opportunity, you will demonstrate:
- Degree-level education or equivalent professional qualification/experience in Planning or a related discipline such as Building Control, Environmental Planning or Transport Planning.
- Significant management experience within a local authority or similarly complex organisation.
- Extensive experience within one or more relevant service areas.
- Strong experience working with elected members and senior stakeholders.
- Proven ability to lead operational service delivery and manage organisational change.
- Experience of staff leadership, supervision and performance management.
- Sound financial and budget monitoring experience.
- Strong understanding of performance monitoring frameworks and service improvement.
- A relevant management qualification would be advantageous.
Head of Service - Planning & Development in Widnes employer: Connect2Halton
Halton Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and development. With a commitment to service improvement and community impact, employees benefit from a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation, alongside the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. This role provides a unique opportunity to lead transformative projects within a progressive local authority, making a meaningful difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - Planning & Development in Widnes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in local government and planning sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Halton Borough Council's recent projects and initiatives. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Interim Head of Service. Highlight your leadership skills and how you've driven service improvements in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - Planning & Development in Widnes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Service role. Highlight your relevant experience in planning and development, and show how you can lead and improve services at Halton Borough Council.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven organisational change in previous roles. This is key for a senior position like this one.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We appreciate clarity!
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 this exciting opportunity at Halton Borough Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Connect2Halton
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Understand the nuances of planning and development, especially within a local authority context. Being able to discuss specific policies or strategies relevant to Halton Borough Council will show that you're not just interested, but well-prepared.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Service, your leadership experience is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change or improved service delivery. Be ready to discuss your approach to staff management and how you ensure professional competency standards are met.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience working with elected members and senior stakeholders. Think of instances where you've built effective relationships or influenced policy decisions. This will demonstrate your ability to represent the Council effectively in negotiations and public inquiries.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Since budget management is part of the role, be prepared to discuss your experience with financial monitoring and reporting. Bring examples of how you've managed budgets in the past and any strategies you've implemented for cost control or service improvement.
