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- Tasks: Lead planning initiatives and provide strategic guidance for complex decisions.
- Company: South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse Councils, a forward-thinking organisation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape a modern planning service and influence community development.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact on communities while navigating a high-profile planning landscape.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in planning with strong communication and decision-making skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team ready for transformation and growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Oxfordshire
This job post will be advertised for a minimum period of two weeks on LinkedIn. After this time please apply directly to this link until the closing date Sunday 22nd February 2026.
The Organisation’s Leading Planning Expert
In this role, you will be the councils’ number‑one planning professional, the person our members, senior leaders and partners look to for clarity, interpretation, and advice. You will set the tone, shape the culture, and provide the strategic and statutory leadership needed to navigate complex decisions in one of the country’s most high‑profile planning landscapes.
A Service Ready for the Future
You will take on a strong foundation: award‑winning innovative work, high performance in development management, and capable managers who are ready to grow. But this is a moment that calls for a leader who can unite teams, modernise ways of working, and ensure the service meets the government’s, and the councils’, challenging ambitions.
A Transformational Year Ahead
With a state‑of‑the‑art planning system going live, you will use this as a platform for cultural change, improving transparency, strengthening governance, and elevating the customer experience. You will build confidence among members, improve communication with town and parish councils, and reinforce a more proactive approach to enforcement. And you will prepare the service for the opportunities and challenges ahead, including the implications of future local government reform.
A Landscape of Scale and Ambition
This is a region with nationally significant housing and infrastructure growth, sensitive landscapes, flagship employment sites, enterprise zones and strong environmental commitments. You will help the organisation navigate political ambition, community and partner expectation and statutory planning requirements, grounding decisions in policy, law and evidence while supporting members to make informed, confident choices.
A Leader Who Inspires Confidence
We’re looking for someone who brings authority with integrity, emotional intelligence without hesitation, and resilience without rigidity. Someone who can connect services, build trust, and lead through complexity with clarity and purpose.
If you’re ready to shape a modern planning service, influence at the highest level, and make a genuine impact on the places and communities we serve, this is the moment to join us.
For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact our executive search partners GatenbySanderson: Kembi Coakelin (kembi.coakelin@gatenbysanderson.com) and Del Coutinho (delicia.coutinho@gatenbysanderson.com).
Head of Planning employer: GatenbySanderson
Contact Detail:
GatenbySanderson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the councils’ recent projects and challenges. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show how you can contribute to their ambitious goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for modernising the planning service and how you can inspire confidence among team members and stakeholders alike.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Planning role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, showing us why you're the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to inspire and unite teams. Use specific examples in your application that showcase your leadership style and how you've navigated complex decisions in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure your key messages come through loud and clear, making it easy for us to see your potential.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application directly through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and legislation relevant to the role. Being able to discuss recent changes or challenges in the planning landscape will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Show Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through complex projects or changes. Highlight your emotional intelligence and ability to inspire confidence, as these are key traits for the Head of Planning role.
✨Understand the Local Context
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities facing South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse Councils. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to the community and your readiness to tackle local issues head-on.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation's goals. This could include inquiries about their vision for the new planning system or how they plan to enhance communication with local councils. It shows you're engaged and forward-thinking.
