Strategic Planning & Development Lead – Hybrid

Essex County Council; Letchworth; Hybrid; GBP 56,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Job summary

North Herts Council is seeking a Development & Conservation Manager to jointly lead planning services in a period of growth. You will oversee development management and enforcement, guiding a team of over 30 officers to deliver high‑quality development across North Hertfordshire.

Team leadership, strategic delivery and professional advice to elected members and communities are key aspects. The role includes a flexible retirement arrangement and hybrid working options in Letchworth Garden City.

Qualifications

• Experienced planning professional with strong development management knowledge and the ability to lead and inspire people, manage projects and support complex decision-making.
• Substantial experience in development management within a local authority or similar environment.
• Able to provide clear professional advice to elected members, senior officers, applicants and communities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee development management, planning enforcement, technical support and specialist functions.
• Lead a team of over 30 officers to deliver high‑quality development across North Hertfordshire.
• Shape and manage a range of schemes from small to large, with significant growth and complexity.
• Provide mentoring, knowledge sharing and support within the management team.

Skills

Development management

Leadership

RTPI membership

Staff management

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Change management

Job description

North Herts Council is seeking a Development & Conservation Manager to jointly lead planning services in a period of growth. You will oversee development management and enforcement, guiding a team of over 30 officers to deliver high‑quality development across North Hertfordshire.

Team leadership, strategic delivery and professional advice to elected members and communities are key aspects. The role includes a flexible retirement arrangement and hybrid working options in Letchworth Garden City.