At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning initiatives that shape Suffolk's future and support sustainable growth.
- Company: Suffolk County Council, dedicated to creating positive change in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to empowering everyone and fostering innovative ideas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on significant infrastructure projects and community wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification in Planning and strong leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 66517 - 71634 £ per year.
Suffolk County Council is seeking an exceptional planning leader to join us as Head of Planning. This is an opportunity to influence significant development and infrastructure projects in the county while leading a highly respected planning service at a time of national planning reform and system change.
Your role and responsibilities include:
- Leading and developing Suffolk County Council's Planning Service
- Ensuring the effective delivery of the Council's statutory planning functions, including its role as Minerals and Waste Planning Authority
- Providing expert planning advice to Cabinet Members, Committees, senior leaders and councillors
- Leading the Council's engagement on major infrastructure and development proposals, including Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)
- Overseeing the preparation and review of Minerals and Waste Local Plans and associated planning policy documents
- Ensuring the Council secures appropriate infrastructure funding and developer contributions through planning obligations and related mechanisms
- Building strong partnerships with district and borough councils, Government agencies, infrastructure providers, developers and local communities
- Representing the Council at public examinations, hearings, inquiries and other formal proceedings
- Supporting the delivery of Suffolk's growth ambitions through strategic planning and integrated infrastructure planning
- Ensuring high standards of governance, financial management and service performance
You will need to be an experienced planning professional with a strong record of leadership in a complex and politically sensitive environment. You will bring:
- Significant experience of leading planning services or major planning functions
- A comprehensive understanding of planning legislation, policy and practice
- Experience of managing complex and contentious planning matters
- Strong strategic thinking and sound professional judgement
- Excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills
- A collaborative approach and the ability to build effective partnerships across organisational boundaries
- Experience of working closely with elected Members and senior stakeholders
- The credibility and confidence to represent the Council at the highest levels
Essential Qualifications include:
- A postgraduate qualification in Planning recognised by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), or an equivalent relevant qualification
- Chartered membership of the RTPI (or equivalent professional standing)
- A demonstrable commitment to continuing professional development
This role offers a broad and varied portfolio, significant strategic influence and the opportunity to work with partners across local government, business, communities and central government.
If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
For more information, please contact Rob Hancock or Shirley Brown for a casual conversation.
Closing date: 11.30pm, 23 July 2026.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Head of Planning in Ipswich employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Suffolk County Council is an exceptional employer that empowers its staff to create meaningful change within the community. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working options, and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to thrive while making a significant impact on sustainable growth and infrastructure in Suffolk. Join us in shaping the future of our county, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions will directly enhance the lives of residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning in Ipswich
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
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Before your interview with Suffolk Jobs Direct, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
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The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Suffolk Jobs Direct.
