Head of Development Management

The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 64,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading council is seeking a Head of Development Management to guide planning applications and enforcement matters. The role involves leadership, collaboration, and strategic thinking to ensure sustainable outcomes. Ideal candidates will be MRTPI-qualified with substantial experience in development management.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in development management.
• Record of sound, timely decision-making in complex cases.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Development Management team across planning applications.
• Ensure timely and balanced planning decisions.
• Develop and support a talented team.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Communication

Strategic Thinking

Education

MRTPI Qualification

Job description

Head of Development Management

Salary: £63,907 PA

About Stroud District Council

Stroud District Council is on an ambitious path of transformation, with a strong commitment to sustainability, regeneration, and a thriving local economy. Our focus on placemaking underpins our vision for a district known for its natural beauty, proud heritage, and vibrant communities.

Planning is key to delivering that vision. From major regeneration schemes like our flagship canal restoration to bold approaches in housing and infrastructure, we are determined to deliver high-quality, sustainable outcomes for residents, businesses, and the environment.

As we prepare for potential Local Government Reorganisation in Gloucestershire, we are thinking ahead. We are strengthening services, investing in leadership, and aligning planning with a joined-up, forward-thinking, One Council approach. We are also actively exploring opportunities to collaborate with neighbouring councils to shape efficient, future-ready services.

The Role

We are seeking a Head of Development Management to lead one of our most high-profile services. This role guides our Development Management team across all planning applications, appeals, and enforcement matters. It is a critical position in our leadership and management team, contributing to the wider strategic direction and council-wide priorities.

You will ensure planning decisions are timely, robust, and balanced, delivering growth while respecting design quality and the environment. This role involves working corporately across services, helping deliver strategic aims, and preparing for organisational change.

Leadership, collaboration, and culture will be at the heart of your work. You will develop and support a talented team, champion customer service, and help shape the future of planning in the district.

About You

We are looking for an MRTPI-qualified planner with significant experience in development management and a record of sound, timely decision-making in complex cases. You lead with confidence and purpose, bringing out the best in your team and building shared ownership of goals.

You will bring strategic thinking and a clear understanding of the political, commercial, and community context in which we operate. Your communication skills and credibility will support constructive work with members, applicants, and communities alike.

You will also be ready to work across boundaries within and beyond the council to align development management with broader regeneration goals and emerging opportunities through reorganisation.

Why Stroud?

We value our people. At Stroud, you’ll find a progressive, inclusive, and ambitious council that supports staff to grow and thrive. We are committed to working as one council, with residents and communities always at the heart of what we do.

If you are a forward-thinking leader ready to shape the future of planning in a unique and dynamic district, we want to hear from you.

Closing date: 9am on Tuesday 27th May 2025.

To apply click on the 'apply button'

To Apply:

To apply, please submit an up-to-date copy of your CV (three sides of A4 maximum), along with a supporting statement (three sides of A4 maximum) detailing your experience, achievements, and how you meet the key criteria for the role, using examples. Documents should be uploaded via our website in two documents only. If you experience issues, please contact [e-mail].

Applications should include:

• Full contact details;
• Names, positions, organisations, and contact details for two referees (we will ask permission before contacting);
• Details of your current salary and notice period;
• Availability for interviews.

At Tile Hill, we are committed to inclusion and accessibility. If you have specific requests or need a confidential discussion, please email [e-mail].