Development Management Manager

Cheltenham Borough Council; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking an experienced planning professional to lead their Development Management team. In this role, you will manage day-to-day operations, oversee strategic planning applications, and contribute to major development projects. The ideal candidate will have experience in leading planning teams, along with strong communication skills to engage with various stakeholders. This role is pivotal in shaping the town's future while ensuring conservation of its cultural and biodiversity assets.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading planning teams or similar roles.
• Ability to manage strategic planning applications effectively.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Development Management team and oversee day-to-day operations.
• Manage strategic planning applications and drive performance improvements.
• Shape Cheltenham’s future by balancing growth with conservation.

Job description

Overview

We’re looking for an experienced and driven planning professional to lead our Development Management team and help deliver our ambitious goals for housing, employment, skills, and carbon neutrality by 2030.

In this leadership role, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of the team, manage strategic planning applications, and drive performance improvements across the service. You’ll play a key part in shaping Cheltenham’s future—balancing growth with the conservation of our rich cultural, biodiversity, and heritage assets.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Development Management team and oversee day-to-day operations.
• Manage strategic planning applications and drive performance improvements across the service.
• Shape Cheltenham’s future by balancing growth with conservation of cultural, biodiversity, and heritage assets.
• Work closely with elected members, colleagues, and external stakeholders to support timely, high-quality decision-making.
• Promote innovation, customer service, and continuous improvement to embed a forward‑thinking, solution‑focused culture within the planning service.
• Contribute to major development, regeneration, and landmark projects, supporting Cheltenham’s role as a destination for inward investment and economic growth.
• Help ensure the council’s planning service delivers positive outcomes for the community and stakeholders.

Note

Please note that this job advert may close early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.