Corporate Lead

Joshua Robert Recruitment; Devon and Torbay; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional governmental body is looking for a Corporate Lead - New Communities to lead strategic planning for new sustainable communities in Devon. The role involves managing large-scale projects, overseeing development sites, and ensuring high-quality outcomes through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in project management and strong leadership skills. A contractual hourly rate of £32.51 is offered for this temporary position.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in leading community development projects and teams.
• Strong knowledge of planning policies and regulations.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale development programmes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and shape the New Communities Team according to organizational objectives.
• Oversee the planning and delivery of major development programmes.
• Foster relationships with stakeholders, including government and community partners.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Negotiation

Job description

Job Opportunity: Corporate Lead - New Communities
Location: Devon
Contract Type: Temporary
Start Date: Monday, 15 December 2025
Start Time: 09:00
End Date: Sunday, 1 March 2026
Hourly Rate: £32.51 per hour

Overview

East Devon District Council is seeking an experienced and influential Corporate Lead - New Communities to guide the strategic planning and creation of new, sustainable communities such as Cranbrook New Town, Marlcombe, and key Enterprise Zone developments. This role requires strong leadership, planning expertise, and the ability to manage large-scale programmes while working closely with internal and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Management

• Lead and shape the New Communities Team in alignment with organisational objectives.
• Drive performance, ensuring targets are met while maintaining a high-quality service.
• Oversee the planning and delivery of major development programmes.

Operational Delivery

• Lead masterplans, supplementary planning documents, and planning proposals from pre-application to post-consent.
• Manage major development sites within the Cranbrook expansion, Marlcombe New Community, and Enterprise Zone.
• Oversee consultants, procurement, budgets, and governance processes.
• Negotiate with developers to secure high-quality outcomes for residents.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide updates to leadership, committees, and member forums.
• Represent the Council externally at public hearings, inquiries, and examinations.
• Maintain strong relationships with key partners including Homes England, MHCLG, infrastructure providers, and local communities.

People Management

• Lead, support, and develop a team of planning and built-environment professionals.
• Manage performance, training, communication, and HR processes.
• Foster a culture of improvement and excellence.

Change & Programme Management

• Contribute to organisational change initiatives.
• Introduce new systems and technologies to improve service delivery.
• Ensure the team adapts to changing planning and regulatory environments.

Data, Performance & Financial Oversight

• Ensure robust data management to support decision-making.
• Monitor budgets, value-for-money processes, procurement, and financial regulations.
• Oversee capital and revenue spending categories.

Additional Duties

• Support safeguarding, equality, risk management, health & safety, and Council-wide compliance.
• Participate in duty rotas across Honiton and Exmouth offices.