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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of planners, manage applications, and ensure compliance with local policies.
- Company: Join North East Derbyshire District Council, committed to sustainable community development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, up to 35 days leave, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of your district while working in a supportive, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified town planner with experience in development management.
- Other info: Applications close on 29th June 2025; apply online or request an offline pack.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role
Are you an experienced planner with a passion for shaping sustainable communities and leading a high-performing team? We are seeking a Planning Team Leader to join our Development Management Team at North East Derbyshire District Council. In this new pivotal role, you will lead an established, committed and friendly team of planning officers, managing a diverse caseload of planning applications and delivering high-quality, timely decisions that support our strategic vision for growth and regeneration.
The team has embraced significant changes to the way we work in recent times, including the adoption of a new pre-application advice service and a partnership with Design:Midlands to increase the quality of schemes submitted at the formal application stage. You will be committed to continuous improvement and you will be empowered to build on the recent changes made by a supportive management culture. North East Derbyshire can offer an excellent platform for you to develop your career.
The Planning Service is involved in a number of national pilot schemes, including the Proptech Innovation Fund and the Planning Skills Delivery Fund. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to get involved in these projects and work with the Service management team to promote the excellent work of the team. The Service is leading on a number of corporate priorities. The Local Plan review is underway and you will play a key role in making sure that the Development Management team add value to this process. There are major regeneration projects in the pipeline, including those affecting heritage assets and the Green Belt. You will be the lead officer on some of these corporately significant projects that include the redevelopment of Council assets.
The role would suit experienced planners who are seeking their first role in management. We have a genuine ‘One Team’ approach here at North East Derbyshire. This is not just a slogan, it is a way of working that recognises that we will deliver far better outcomes for residents if we see the ‘bigger picture’ and work together. This approach fosters people who have bold ideas, seize the initiative and have a determination to push things forward. If this sounds like you, we would very much welcome your application!
The successful candidate will:
- Lead, mentor, and support a team of planning officers to deliver excellent development management services.
- Oversee complex and high-profile planning applications, appeals, and enforcement cases.
- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and local planning policies.
- Provide expert advice to elected members, stakeholders, and the public.
- Contribute to service improvement initiatives and help shape planning policy and procedures.
- Represent the council at planning committees, public inquiries, and stakeholder meetings.
We’re looking for someone who is:
- A qualified town planner (RTPI membership or eligibility is essential).
- Experienced in development management within a local authority or similar setting.
- A confident leader with excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Able to manage competing priorities and make sound, evidence-based decisions.
- Passionate about delivering sustainable development and excellent public service.
In return the Council offers:
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Flexible working arrangement, up to 35 days annual leave and a strong focus on work-life balance.
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and other employee benefits.
Join us and help shape the future of our District – where your leadership can make a lasting impact. Apply today!
If you are interested in this post, please apply using the online application, attaching a CV and covering letter explaining how you meet the job specification on our dedicated webpage on Derbyshire Jobs at North East Derbyshire District Council Vacancies or via Derbyshire - Jobs and Careers by clicking ‘Apply for this job’ and creating an account. You can save your progress and exit the application at any time, coming back to it at a later stage to complete and submit your application. Applications close Midnight, 29th June 2025.
Please read the Guidance Notes provided before completing any application. If you do not have internet access, you can request an offline application pack by contacting North East Derbyshire District Council Contact Centre on (01246) 231111 or emailing HumanResources@ne-derbyshire.gov.uk. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Planning Team Leader - Development Management employer: North East Derbyshire District Council
Contact Detail:
North East Derbyshire District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Team Leader - Development Management
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current planning policies and strategic vision of North East Derbyshire District Council. Understanding their goals will help you align your experience and ideas with their objectives during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those involved in local authorities or similar settings. Engaging with others can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you’ve driven change or improved processes, as this aligns with their focus on continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in sustainable development and regeneration projects. Being knowledgeable about current issues will demonstrate your passion for the field and your commitment to delivering excellent public service.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Team Leader - Development Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Planning Team Leader position. Highlight your relevant experience in development management and leadership in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Emphasise your qualifications as a town planner, your experience in local authority settings, and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly explain how your background meets the job specification. Use specific examples to demonstrate your leadership skills, ability to manage complex planning applications, and commitment to sustainable development.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow the application instructions carefully. Attach your CV and cover letter as specified, and double-check that you have included all necessary information before submitting your application through the designated online platform.
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Derbyshire District Council
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Planning Team Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, highlighting your communication and negotiation skills.
✨Understand the Local Context
Familiarise yourself with North East Derbyshire's planning policies and current projects. Being knowledgeable about local issues and regeneration projects will show your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
The role requires a focus on service improvement initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented changes in previous roles and how you can bring that mindset to the Development Management Team.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling complex planning applications and appeals. Think through potential scenarios you might face in this role and how you would approach them, ensuring you base your decisions on evidence and best practices.
