Head of Town Planning

Critical Project Resourcing Ltd; Kingston upon Thames; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A project resourcing company is seeking a Head of Development Management for an interim role in South West London. The successful candidate will provide leadership in Development Management and Enforcement, ensuring alignment with the local council’s objectives. Key responsibilities include managing strategies for planning applications and overseeing service delivery. Extensive experience in a similar role, along with a degree in Town Planning, is required. This position offers a competitive daily rate of £650.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in managing Development Management services.
• Strong knowledge of local government operations and political awareness.
• Proven ability to set strategy and manage teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Development Management and Enforcement service.
• Produce and deliver the service plan aligned with corporate objectives.
• Oversee structures and processes to improve efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Planning expertise

Knowledge of planning legislation

Strategic planning

Management skills

Education

Degree in Town Planning or related discipline

Chartered RTPI membership or eligibility

Management training or qualification (Diploma or MBA)

Job description

Head of Development Management – Interim

South West London | £650 per day (umbrella)

The Role

You will provide leadership to the Development Management and Enforcement functions, making a significant contribution to the borough’s growth and regeneration through the effective application of planning expertise. You’ll ensure that development is delivered in line with the Council’s Local Plan and corporate priorities, setting the strategic direction and managing the tactical operations of the service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Development Management and Enforcement service, setting strategy and ensuring effective delivery.
• Produce and deliver the service plan, aligning outcomes with corporate and directorate objectives.
• Oversee structures, processes and technology to improve efficiency and quality of service.
• Provide professional and technical expertise in the determination of complex planning applications.
• Lead negotiations on infrastructure delivery, Section 106 agreements and CIL contributions.
• Manage Planning Committees, support Neighbourhood Committees, and attend relevant Council meetings.
• Promote the service, supporting pre-application income, expedited services, and Planning Performance Agreements.
• Oversee and defend planning appeals and enforcement decisions.

About You

• Degree in Town Planning or a related discipline, with chartered RTPI membership (or eligibility).
• Extensive experience in managing Development Management services, including planning applications and enforcement.
• Strong knowledge of planning legislation, local government operations, and political awareness.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to set strategy, manage teams and deliver results.
• Management training or qualification (e.g. Diploma or MBA) desirable.

This is a high-profile interim role, offering the opportunity to shape the borough’s growth and regeneration while leading a committed planning team.

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