Service Director - Planning

Epping Forest District Council; North Weald Bassett; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Join Epping Forest District Council as a Senior Strategic Planning Professional, leading the planning function while ensuring a vibrant community. This role involves high-level decision-making, strategic leadership, and partnership-building to navigate public sector challenges and future-proof council services.

Benefits

Supportive and collaborative environment

Opportunities for growth and contribution

Qualifications

• Experienced in strategic planning.
• Capable leader with public sector experience.
• Skilled in building partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning initiatives.
• Support the Executive Officer Group.
• Shape the future of planning functions.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Public sector management

Partnership building

Job description

Senior Leadership Opportunity: Strategic Planning Professional
Are you an experienced and positive-minded planning professional ready to take on a strategic leadership role? Join our dynamic Planning team, which includes Building Control, and make a significant impact on our community. About Us: Epping Forest District Council is in a strong position with a Local Plan adopted in March 2023. Our plan balances growth with the preservation of our natural environment, including large areas of Metropolitan Green Belt on the edge of London and the woodland of Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation. We are overseeing a wide range of planning projects, including Masterplans for strategic housing and employment sites as well as government-funded green belt/grey belt assessment, before we update our Local Plan. Your Role: You will be the Council's strategic planning lead providing expert advice to the executive and working as a key member of the senior leadership team. As part of the Executive Officer Group for the Harlow and Gilston Garden Town, you will support its Joint Committee and vision. You will provide strategic leadership, translating a vision of the future to staff, harnessing their passion, commitment, and teamwork. Your role will be crucial in shaping the future of the planning function and growing the business. What We Are Looking For: We seek a talented individual who is a capable strategic thinker and leader. You will build strong partnerships and tackle public sector challenges head-on, ensuring our district remains a vibrant place to live, visit, and work. What We Offer: In return, we offer a supportive and collaborative environment where you can thrive. Our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace means every team member has the opportunity to contribute, grow, and make a lasting impact. Join us as we move towards an exciting phase of change, innovation, and improvement in the context of devolution and local government reform. Be part of a team that futureproofs high-quality council services and shapes the future of our community.
Please note, Interviews for this role will be held on 29 and 30 July 2025