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- Tasks: Lead Fenland's planning strategy and specialist services for sustainable growth.
- Company: Join a pro-growth Council committed to shaping the future of Fenland.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact on communities and the economy.
- Other info: Work within a supportive team environment with diverse expertise.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of exciting projects that will define Fenland's development.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning, strategic leadership, and collaboration across disciplines.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
This is a senior role at the heart of Fenland’s place‑shaping agenda. You will lead the Council’s planning strategy and specialist services, guiding how Fenland grows and develops over the long term. A key priority will be the Council’s need to deliver a new Local Plan under the reformed plan‑making system, supported by a clear spatial strategy, strong evidence base and effective neighbourhood planning.
You will manage specialist functions including ecology, the historic environment, arboriculture and monitoring, ensuring they add real value to planning and decision‑making. You will also provide strategic input on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, oversee infrastructure delivery planning, and represent the Council in wider strategic work, including spatial development strategies at CPCA level.
Working within a strong One Council ethos, you will collaborate closely with colleagues across planning, communities, housing, transport and environmental services, helping to deliver joined‑up, positive outcomes for Fenland. This includes leading the preparation of a new Local Plan, overseeing neighbourhood planning, and managing specialist functions such as ecology, the historic environment, arboriculture and monitoring.
You will provide strategic leadership on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects and infrastructure delivery planning, and represent the Council in wider strategic work, including spatial development strategies at CPCA level.
The Opportunity Fenland is a place that is growing and changing, with real opportunities to make a lasting difference. Our towns and villages are evolving, major investment is coming forward, and the decisions we take now will shape how Fenland develops for many years to come. As a pro‑growth Council, we are preparing a new Local Plan under the reformed plan‑making system, alongside major initiatives such as the Fens Growth Triangle and nationally significant projects including Fens Reservoir.
This is an exciting moment to help set a clear direction for the district and to plan positively for growth that supports our communities and economy. We work with a strong One Council ethos, bringing together expertise from planning, communities, housing, transport and environmental services. These roles offer the opportunity to work across disciplines, collaborate with a wide range of colleagues and partners, and contribute to joined‑up solutions that shape places and deliver real outcomes for Fenland.
Planning Strategy & Specialist Services Manager employer: Fenland District Council
Contact Detail:
Fenland District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Strategy & Specialist Services Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning and development sector. Attend local events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Fenland! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the area and its growth. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to the Council’s planning strategy and specialist services – it’ll set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the Council’s current projects and initiatives. Familiarise yourself with the new Local Plan and other major developments like the Fens Growth Triangle. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your commitment and readiness to take on the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. So, get your application in and let’s shape Fenland together!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Strategy & Specialist Services Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Planning Strategy & Specialist Services Manager role. Highlight your experience in planning strategy, local plans, and collaboration across different services to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about strategic leadership, so don’t hold back on sharing examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. We want to see how you can guide and inspire others to achieve positive outcomes for Fenland.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge: Familiarise yourself with Fenland’s current planning challenges and opportunities. Mention any relevant projects or initiatives you’ve been involved in that align with our goals, especially around infrastructure delivery and neighbourhood planning.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you 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 to shape Fenland’s future!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fenland District Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in Fenland’s planning strategy and the specifics of the Local Plan. Brush up on recent developments in planning legislation and how they impact local councils. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand the bigger picture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Planning Strategy & Specialist Services Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and collaborate. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully managed teams or projects, especially those involving cross-departmental collaboration. Highlight how you can bring a 'One Council' ethos to life.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges related to planning and infrastructure delivery. Think about potential scenarios, such as managing community feedback on a new development or balancing ecological concerns with growth. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the council’s objectives. Inquire about the current challenges facing Fenland’s planning strategy or how the council envisions the implementation of the new Local Plan. This shows your genuine interest and strategic thinking.