At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic development of the UK Central Hub and drive sustainable economic growth.
- Company: Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, shaping one of the UK's most ambitious development locations.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, generous leave, professional development, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a nationally significant project with unrivalled transport connectivity.
- Qualifications: Experience in development, regeneration, or infrastructure; degree in relevant discipline required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the UK Central Hub—one of the UK's most ambitious and well‑connected development locations.
About The Hub
The UK Central Hub spans 1,300 hectares of mixed‑use, thriving commercial space in Solihull, ideally located just off Junction 6 of the M42. This nationally significant destination is home to:
- Birmingham Airport
- The National Exhibition Centre (NEC)
- The new HS2 Interchange Station
- Arden Cross – a 140‑hectare development site planned to be anchored by a University of Warwick‑led Health Tech Campus
- Birmingham International Station on the West Coast Main Line
- Birmingham Business Park
- Jaguar Land Rover
With unrivalled transport connectivity, major infrastructure investment and the arrival of high‑speed rail, the Hub is set to bolster its position as one of the UK’s most connected and dynamic places for business, leisure and living.
About The Role
Working at the heart of Solihull Council’s growth agenda, you will lead the strategic development of the UK Central Hub, engaging with public and private sector partners to unlock investment, accelerate delivery and drive sustainable economic growth. You will operate at a senior level, building relationships with major developers, Government, HS2, West Midlands Combined Authority and investors to shape and deliver a shared vision for growth. Combining commercial insight with public purpose, you will develop comprehensive funding strategies, influence major infrastructure and regeneration programmes, and ensure delivery of new homes, jobs and high‑quality places. You’ll also help ensure the benefits of development across the UK Central Hub are felt across Solihull and the wider West Midlands, including the East Birmingham North Solihull Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ). With a timetable for releasing land for the delivery of Arden Cross in place, now is the perfect time to take the lead in shaping this nationally significant development.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading high‑profile partnerships with developers, landowners, investors and public sector partners
- Shaping and delivering a long‑term vision for growth, regeneration and place‑making
- Unlocking funding and investment through innovative funding strategies
- Driving forward complex, multi‑agency programmes and major infrastructure projects
- Translating strategic ambition into deliverable, real‑world outcomes
About You
- A strong track record of leadership and innovation in development, regeneration or infrastructure
- Demonstrable experience of collaborative partnership working with the private and public sector, and the confidence to influence, negotiate and deliver at scale
- Experience commissioning land and property development activities across a range of delivery models (direct delivery, joint ventures, partnerships) and financing methods
- Strong judgement and the ability to manage competing priorities, limited resources and tight timescales effectively
- A degree in a relevant discipline such as architecture, surveying, planning or civil engineering
What We Offer
- A range of flexible working options, including hybrid working
- Generous annual leave entitlements with the opportunity to purchase up to 10 days of additional leave per year
- A flexitime scheme
- A positive and supportive environment in which to train and continue your professional development
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24‑hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service
- Family and carer friendly policies
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Employee benefits including staff discounts, subsidised travel passes and Cycle 2 Work Scheme
- As an essential car user, free parking is available
Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees—a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.
Strategic Development Lead - UK Central and HS2 employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
