Lead Planning Strategist — Local Plan & Policy

Manchester City Council; Manchester; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 26–31 days

Volunteer leave

35-hour work week

Pension scheme

Job summary

Manchester City Council is seeking an experienced Planning professional to lead the Local Plan team within the Planning Strategy division. The post holder will work with the Planning Strategy Manager to drive the Local Plan through consultation and towards examination by the end of 2026, liaising across services to deliver high quality policy documents and developments.

You will engage with stakeholders, support delivery of planning policy, and help shape a safe and sustainable future for

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and public speaking with strong written and verbal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and translate Vision into practical policy.
• Experience turning policy ideas into deliverable work plans with measurable outcomes.
• A proven track record in managing budgets and resources within a service.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Local Plan team within Planning Strategy and liaise with other teams.
• Support delivery of the Local Plan and other planning policy documents.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure high quality development and safe environments in the city.

Skills

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Planning & Organising

Problem Solving & Decision Making

Strategic Thinking

Policy Skills

Financial Management

People Management

Education

Degree level

Job description

Manchester City Council is seeking an experienced Planning professional to lead the Local Plan team within the Planning Strategy division. The post holder will work with the Planning Strategy Manager to drive the Local Plan through consultation and towards examination by the end of 2026, liaising across services to deliver high quality policy documents and developments.

You will engage with stakeholders, support delivery of planning policy, and help shape a safe and sustainable future for