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- Tasks: Lead a team in managing major planning applications and drive regeneration projects.
- Company: Join the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, a forward-thinking local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of your community through innovative planning and development.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
6 months contract with a Local Authority.
The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames is seeking an experienced Lead Officer – Development Management (Grade K) to provide senior leadership within the Planning Service. This interim role is required to cover a vacant post and will play a key part in supporting the delivery of major developments and regeneration across the borough. The postholder will lead a Development Management team, oversee complex and strategically significant planning applications, and act as a senior link between developers, stakeholders and the Council. Using a project-management approach, the role will ensure the effective progression of applications from pre-application stage through to determination, while securing high-quality, sustainable outcomes in line with local and national planning policy.
Key Duties/Accountabilities:
- Lead and coordinate the handling of major and complex planning applications from pre-application through to decision.
- Manage and provide professional leadership to a Development Management team of Principal, Senior and Planning Officers.
- Sign off officer reports and attend Planning Committee, briefings and public meetings as required.
- Provide expert planning advice on major development proposals, ensuring compliance with national and local planning policy and legislation.
- Project manage strategically significant sites, including regeneration and housing-led developments.
- Coordinate internal and external consultees, commissioned consultants and professional officers using a development team approach.
- Negotiate and secure planning obligations, including Section 106 agreements and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
- Represent the Council at planning appeals, including hearings and inquiries, acting as expert witness where required.
- Exercise delegated authority in line with the Council's Scheme of Delegation.
- Manage budgets, monitor income and oversee performance against agreed targets and timescales.
- Respond to complaints and enquiries from residents, Members, developers and the Local Government Ombudsman.
- Deputise for the Head of Development Management and contribute to service leadership and innovation.
Skills/Experience:
- Significant experience leading and advising on major planning applications.
- Strong knowledge of planning legislation, policy, case law and guidance at national and local level.
- Proven experience in Development Management within a local authority environment.
- Experience managing complex projects and high-profile development proposals.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Experience of planning appeals, including hearings and inquiries.
- Strong negotiation skills, particularly in relation to Section 106 and infrastructure delivery.
- Ability to work collaboratively with developers, elected Members, residents and multi-disciplinary teams.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including committee reporting.
- Strong commercial awareness and ability to manage budgets and performance.
- Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive practice.
Additional Information:
- Degree-level qualification in Town Planning or a related built environment discipline.
- Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or eligible through equivalent post-qualification experience.
- Hours: 36 per week (09:*****:00).
Lead Officer Development Management in England employer: CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD
Contact Detail:
CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Officer Development Management in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning sector. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, make sure to highlight your experience with major planning applications and your leadership skills. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed complex projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local and national planning policies. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios related to development management. This will show that you're not just a good fit on paper but also in practice!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications and updates!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Officer Development Management in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in leading major planning applications. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page about what you bring to the table.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you've managed teams and projects in the past. Share specific examples of how you've led a Development Management team or handled complex planning applications to demonstrate your leadership prowess.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your skills and experiences that align with the role.
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 with the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames.
How to prepare for a job interview at CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on both national and local planning policies before the interview. Being able to discuss how these policies impact development management will show your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past, especially in managing complex planning applications. Highlight your ability to motivate and guide your team through challenging projects.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as negotiating Section 106 agreements or dealing with public complaints. Think through your approach and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Experience
Since this role involves overseeing major developments, be prepared to discuss your project management experience. Share specific examples of projects you've managed, focusing on outcomes and how you ensured compliance with planning legislation.
