At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning initiatives and oversee complex development projects.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council shaping the future of vibrant communities.
- Benefits: Generous leave, excellent pension, training opportunities, and health support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable growth and community regeneration.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning, RTPI membership, and leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 78532 - 78532 £ per year.
Permanent – 37 hours per week
£70,696 - £78,532 per annum (Pay award pending)
Wychavon and Malvern Hills have an ambitious growth strategy, supported by the recently adopted South Worcestershire Development Plan Review (SWDPR). The Plan sets out a significant programme of growth, delivering over 20,000 homes and 300 hectares of employment land across the area over the next 15 years. This includes the delivery of a major new community at Wychavon Town (approximately 10,000 homes). Alongside this planned growth, the Councils are also progressing ambitious regeneration programmes for our town centres including Evesham and Droitwich Spa.
This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of some of the fastest growing districts in the West Midlands and helping to deliver sustainable communities supported by new infrastructure, employment opportunities and high-quality places.
We are looking for a Head of Planning to provide strategic leadership for the Council’s planning delivery functions including Development Management, Planning Enforcement and Planning Support, ensuring the effective coordination and integration of these services with wider planning, regeneration, infrastructure and growth activities.
This is a varied and rewarding role where you will oversee the delivery of complex and high-profile development projects, working across organisational boundaries to remove barriers to delivery, coordinate infrastructure provision and secure investment. This will include working with development partners, landowners, registered providers, Homes England, government agencies and infrastructure providers to bring forward sustainable growth and regeneration opportunities.
Operating within a highly complex and politically sensitive environment, the postholder will provide clear, balanced and commercially aware professional advice to elected Members, senior officers and external stakeholders on matters of significant strategic importance, often involving competing priorities, substantial financial implications, high levels of public interest and reputational risk. Strong communication skills and the ability to engage constructively with a wide range of stakeholders are essential, alongside a commitment to delivering an excellent and responsive planning service.
Experience with developing and maintaining effective strategic partnerships, leadership and management experience, and strong computer literacy, including MS Office, property databases and GIS systems are essential.
About You
- Comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of planning law and practice
- Degree level education, with a recognised qualification in town planning, and full RTPI Membership
- Experience of delivering complex regeneration schemes and major developments
- Understanding of case law and ability to balance commercial, planning, legal and political considerations when formulating recommendations
- Ability to develop and maintain effective strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders
- Leadership and management experience, with the ability to inspire and motivate others
- Good computer literacy and proficiency with MS Office, property databases and GIS systems
- Appreciation of good design and ability to negotiate planning obligations within tight deadlines
- Outstanding customer care and a commitment to supporting performance improvement
What We Can Offer
- Generous annual leave entitlement with options to purchase additional annual leave
- Excellent pension scheme with employer contributions
- Committed training programme and development opportunities
- Onsite nursery with 20% staff discount (Pershore office)
- Discounted gym and swim membership
- Health and wellbeing support and a free employee assistance scheme including access to counselling services
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discounts with a range of companies, including EE and the Kaarp discount scheme
Malvern Hills District Council does not currently offer sponsorship for candidates without the right to work in the UK.
Contact Ian Macleod, Director of Planning and Infrastructure, for further information about the role.
Head of Planning employer: WMJobs
Malvern Hills District Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead planning initiatives in one of the fastest-growing areas in the West Midlands. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, and a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, you will play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable communities while enjoying a fulfilling career. The council's focus on health and wellbeing, alongside flexible leave options and discounts for local services, makes it an attractive workplace for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
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We think this is how you could land Head of Planning
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning
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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
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