Dorset Local Plan Interim Lead - Strategic Planning

Civic Recruitment Limited; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Civic Recruitment Limited is recruiting for an Interim Lead for the Dorset Local Plan. The role entails strategic leadership to develop and deliver a new Local Plan under the NPPF, including a Design Guide.

Reporting to senior officials, you will oversee the Spatial Planning Service and a ~50-strong team, ensuring resources align with Local Plan objectives. The assignment runs for six months with potential extension, requiring on-site attendance in Dorchester/Dorset 3–4 days a week.

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in strategic planning.
• Proven track record delivering and adopting Local Plans.
• Experience leading major planning programmes and complex projects.
• Experience influencing senior officers, elected members and statutory stakeholders.
• Experience managing large multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead Dorset's new Local Plan and Design Guide delivery.
• Establish a clear project path and robust management framework.
• Drive milestones and ensure statutory planning compliance.
• Provide strategic leadership to the Spatial Planning teams.
• Coordinate with senior leaders and external stakeholders.
• Align planning resources to Local Plan objectives.
• Engage with Cabinet Members and partners on planning matters.
• Offer expert guidance on strategic planning issues.

Skills

Strategic planning leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Programme management

Team leadership

Local Plan delivery

Education

Degree in Town Planning/Spatial Planning/Geography/Urban Planning

RTPI membership desirable

Job description

Civic Recruitment Limited is recruiting for an Interim Lead for the Dorset Local Plan. The role entails strategic leadership to develop and deliver a new Local Plan under the NPPF, including a Design Guide.

Reporting to senior officials, you will oversee the Spatial Planning Service and a ~50-strong team, ensuring resources align with Local Plan objectives. The assignment runs for six months with potential extension, requiring on-site attendance in Dorchester/Dorset 3–4 days a week.