At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead programme and policy development for key projects in West Yorkshire.
- Company: Join the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, committed to inclusive growth.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 28 days leave, free travel, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace valuing diversity and offering excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Shape the future of your community while advancing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree or relevant experience in planning, housing, or transport policy required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
We currently have a vacancy for a Development Lead to join our Spatial Planning and Strategic Sites Team. This post is an opportunity to take a leading role in programme and policy development in the Spatial Planning and Strategic Sites team. Working within the Combined Authority spatial planning team your role will be to drive forward our progress on key place based projects and policy development, including the Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) and Infrastructure Strategy for the region and in driving forward strategic sites. Working in partnership with local authorities you will help shape the regions growth potential, unlocking sites for development and environmental enhancement and helping to secure inclusive growth for the people and communities of West Yorkshire.
Key Responsibilities
- To lead programme development and support policy development for the West Yorkshire Infrastructure Strategy (IS) and Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), and other strategic planning policy/strategy as required.
- To convene and work closely in partnership with a range of external stakeholders (locally, regionally and nationally) to support conditions for housing and jobs growth in the region aligned to the emerging Spatial Development Strategy and Local Plans.
- Develop a pipeline and secure funding for delivery-ready programmes and projects aligned to policy priorities in the SDS and IS.
You will be part of a well-established team with expertise in Strategic Planning, Housing, Urban Design, Flood, Energy and Environment. And part of a cross-organisational policy function with expertise in Transport, Business, Innovation, Skills and Culture.
Key Skills, Attributes, Education and Experience
- Holds a degree or has equivalent relevant experience in planning, housing, economic or transport policy and programme development.
- Substantial practical experience of successfully performing within either Planning, Housing, Transport or Economic policy.
- Strong track record of stakeholder engagement and partnership working and communicating effectively with a variety of audiences.
- Experienced in forming and developing effective senior level working relationships with Members, Government and partner organisations to achieve the best outcomes for the organisation.
- Experienced in developing the business cases and managing projects and programmes.
- The role is in the Spatial Planning Team and planning experience is preferred; however, we will consider other related skills.
Our Offer
- Work your way – From flexible and agile working options, including a generous flexi-time scheme to help you balance your personal life and career.
- Time to recharge – Enjoy 28 days of annual leave (with increases based on length of service), plus all Bank Holidays.
- Free greener travel across West Yorkshire – Cover your commute sustainably with unlimited free bus and rail travel using the MCard (Zones 1–5).
- Secure your future – Benefit from a highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Investing in you – Take advantage of fully funded professional development, regular training, and up to 3 paid volunteering days per year.
- Grow with us – Incremental salary progression for most roles and annual cost of living increases.
- Family first – We offer enhanced parental and bereavement leave, plus other family-friendly policies to support you when it matters most.
- Your wellbeing, our priority – Access 24/7 free confidential counselling services and the Headspace app for you and up to 5 family or friends.
- Modern workspace in a prime location – Work in bright, contemporary offices just a 2-minute walk from Leeds Train Station, fully equipped with the latest tech.
To Apply
If this sounds like your next role, please complete the application form and tell us within the supporting statement why you would be a great fit for our role and how your skills, knowledge and experience align with the requirements within the Role Profile. Please visit our Advice for Candidates webpage and review the guidance on this page for support in completing your application form.
Further Information
The Combined Authority is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better outcomes. We welcome applications irrespective of people's age, disability, neuro-divergence, sex, gender identity and gender expression, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, or other personal circumstances. We have policies and procedures in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability and/or who are neuro divergent. To find out more about inclusivity at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority please visit our dedicated webpage. Under the Disability Confident Scheme, applicants with a disability are guaranteed an interview, subject to the minimum criteria being met.
Programme Development Lead employer: West Yorkshire Combined Authority
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With flexible working options, generous leave policies, and a commitment to continuous development, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally in a modern workspace located just minutes from Leeds Train Station. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the region's growth and development while enjoying a range of benefits designed to support you and your family.
Contact Detail:
West Yorkshire Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Development Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. Attend local events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Spatial Development Strategy and Infrastructure Strategy. Show us you know your stuff and can contribute to the region's growth – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your stakeholder engagement skills. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others. We want to see how you can build relationships and drive projects forward.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you nail that supporting statement.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Development Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about the Programme Development Lead position and how your background aligns with our goals.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:Make sure to customise your supporting statement to highlight how your skills and experiences match the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. We love seeing specific examples that demonstrate your expertise!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we appreciate detail, clarity is key! Make your application easy to read by using straightforward language and breaking up text into manageable sections. This helps us quickly grasp your qualifications.
Check Your Application Before Submitting:Before you hit that submit button, give your application a thorough once-over. Typos and errors can distract from your message, so take a moment to ensure everything is polished and professional. We want to see your best work!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Yorkshire Combined Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Spatial Development Strategy and Infrastructure Strategy. Brush up on recent developments in planning, housing, and economic policy, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past. Highlight your experience in forming partnerships and how you’ve communicated effectively with various audiences to achieve project goals.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Experience
Be ready to discuss specific projects you've managed, focusing on how you developed business cases and secured funding. This will show your ability to lead programme development and deliver results.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the Combined Authority's commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to creating an inclusive workplace.
