A progressive Local Authority in Essex is seeking an experienced Planning Development Manager to lead their Development Management service during a period of significant regeneration and growth. This interim leadership role offers a competitive rate of up to £67.00 per hour, a stable 6-month contract, and the opportunity to manage a high-performing team shaping the area's planning and development future.
The Role
You will lead a team of Principal, Senior, and Planning Officers, overseeing all aspects of Development Management, Planning Enforcement, and administrative support functions. With a wide range of residential, commercial, and strategic schemes coming forward, this role will be central in ensuring the effective delivery of high-quality planning outcomes and service improvement across the board.
You'll supervise caseloads, review complex applications, support the committee process, and deputise for senior leadership where needed.
Key Responsibilities:
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Manage and coordinate the Development Management, Planning Enforcement, and Technical Admin teams
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Allocate caseloads and ensure timely progression and high-quality service delivery
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Determine applications under delegated powers and present cases at Planning Committee
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Represent the council in meetings with stakeholders, developers, Members, and partner agencies
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Support the ongoing improvement of planning processes and service standards
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Provide leadership and mentoring to planning officers at all levels
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Deputise for the Director of Planning as required
About You
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Strong and recent experience managing a local authority planning team
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Thorough knowledge of UK planning legislation and Development Management procedures
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Skilled in handling complex and major planning applications from inception to decision
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Confident in providing robust pre-application advice and presenting to committee
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Proven ability to deliver service improvements and manage competing priorities
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Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
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Degree in Town Planning or equivalent (MRTPI desirable)
Why Apply?
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£57.00 - £67.00 per hour (umbrella)
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6-month contract with high potential for extension
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Hybrid working - just 2 days per week in-office
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Leadership role in a fast-paced, regeneration-focused environment
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Direct influence over major growth, housing, and infrastructure projects
