Development Management Team Manager in Northallerton

Lead one of the largest planning services in the country! North Yorkshire Council, the third-largest unitary authority in England, is committed to enhancing the region’s natural capital, supporting resilient communities, and improving the delivery of local services. We are now looking for a Development Management Team Manager to join our Planning Service and help us deliver high-quality planning solutions that benefit the local community and the environment.

As the Development Management Team Manager, you will play a pivotal role in managing and driving forward the future development of North Yorkshire. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced planning professional to lead a dynamic team and deliver exceptional customer-focused planning services that exceed statutory requirements.

• Manage and lead a team of Development Management professionals to deliver a proactive, customer-focused, and compliant service.
• Support the Service Manager in the delivery of a comprehensive programme of improvement, transformation, and cultural change within the team.
• Manage complex and strategically significant planning applications and appeals, ensuring consistency in decision-making.
• Foster strong relationships with Members of the Council, statutory agencies, and external stakeholders.
• Provide leadership, supervision, and technical guidance to staff, promoting professional development and ensuring staff are empowered to make informed decisions.
• Oversee the preparation and organisation of Planning Committees, and represent the Planning Service at public meetings, hearings, and inquiries.
• Manage the negotiation of community benefits through legal agreements, such as section 106 obligations and Community Infrastructure Levy payments.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual with the following:

• In-depth knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and guidance with the ability to apply it in practice.
• Significant experience managing complex planning cases and leading on major planning applications and appeals.
• Proven experience in a leadership role, with a strong ability to manage, motivate, and develop a team.
• Experience of working effectively with elected Members and external stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Chartered membership of the RTPI or an equivalent professional body.
• A relevant degree or post‑graduate qualification in planning or a related field.

• Experience presenting evidence at Public Inquiries.
• A commitment to continuous professional development and maintaining up‑to‑date knowledge of planning legislation and best practices.
• Strong IT skills, especially in using Microsoft Office and planning software.

• Hybrid working with flexible working practices and hours, supported by effective technologies that enable you to work remotely.
• A generous annual leave offer; 28 days of holiday (pro‑rata), increasing to 34 days after 5 years’ service – plus public holidays.
• A generous pension through our Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Diverse and meaningful work: From domestic developments to nationally significant infrastructure, you’ll be at the heart of projects that shape our region.
• Supportive team culture: Work alongside experienced professionals in a collaborative, forward‑thinking environment.
• Career development: We’re committed to helping you grow, with access to training, mentoring, and progression opportunities.

*For the right candidate, a recruitment payment of up to 10% of starting salary may be payable as a one‑off welcome payment.

Take the next step in your career and help shape the future of North Yorkshire’s communities. To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please contact Nick.Turpin@northyorks.gov.uk