Head of Planning

The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited; Armagh; On-site; GBP 69,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government organization in Armagh is seeking a Head of Planning to manage its Planning Department. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree and substantial experience in leading planning services. Responsibilities include managing planning functions, driving service excellence, and collaborating with stakeholders. This role offers a salary between £69,852 - £73,469 per annum, and applications are due by 31st October 2025.

Qualifications

• Substantial post-qualification experience in planning.
• Experience managing planning services at a senior level.
• Proven ability to deliver complex projects on time.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Planning Department across three services: Local Development Plan, development management, planning enforcement.
• Drive service excellence and enhance delivery of the Council’s statutory planning functions.
• Shape future development through implementation of the Local Development Plan.

Skills

Team leadership

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Cross-department collaboration

Service excellence

Education

Relevant degree in planning or related field

Job description

Overview

Head of Planning

Location: Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon

Salary: £69,852 - £73,469 per annum

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation, committed to delivering ambitious, innovative, and sustainable services that enhance the lives of our residents, support local businesses, and attract visitors to our Borough.

Central to this is the Council’s Planning Department which shapes and has the potential to unlock economic prosperity by supporting business ambition, new housing, vital infrastructure, but it also safeguards the unique landscapes that define our region.

We are now seeking an experienced and strategic leader to take on the role of Head of Planning to maximise the department\'s value by supporting cross-organisational objectives through championing a culture of leadership, collaboration, and innovation both internally and externally.

Responsibilities

The Head of Planning will be responsible for the effective management of the Planning Department across its three services: Local Development Plan, development management and planning enforcement, driving service excellence and ensuring and enhancing the delivery of the Council’s statutory planning functions. The Head of Planning will play a central role in shaping the future development of the Borough through the implementation of the Local Development Plan, working in partnership with residents, stakeholders, and strategic partners to create a shared and sustainable vision for the next decade.

The successful candidate will provide strong leadership to a talented and motivated team, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, whilst also influencing and contributing to the wider corporate priorities and ambitions.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly skilled planning professional with a relevant degree and a proven track record of managing planning services at a senior level. The successful candidate will bring extensive experience in leading teams, delivering complex planning projects on time, and working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders across the public sector. A commitment to service excellence and a clear understanding of how planning can drive positive change will be key to success in this role.

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant degree in planning or a related field with substantial post-qualification experience.
• Proven track record of managing planning services at a senior level and delivering complex projects on time.
• Experience leading teams, driving cross-department collaboration, and engaging with a wide range of stakeholders across the public sector.
• Commitment to service excellence and a clear understanding of how planning can drive positive change.

How to Apply

If you are ready to make a lasting impact and play a leading role in shaping the future of the Borough, further information on this opportunity and the application form can be accessed by clicking on the \"apply button\"

Alternatively, contact 4c Executive on 028 9043434 for a confidential discussion or further information.

Closing date for completed applications will be 12 noon on Friday 31st October 2025. Please note CVs will not be accepted.