Strategic Planning Lead: Development & Placemaking

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils; Ipswich; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous leave

LGPS

Wellbeing program

Private health care

EV salary sacrifice

Volunteer days

Flexible working

Learning & development

Job summary

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are seeking a Planning Lead for Development Management, known internally as the Strategic and Professional Lead for Development Management. You will sit at the heart of our growth and placemaking agenda, guiding complex proposals and championing high‑quality design.

Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, you will work with communities, partners and internal teams to deliver inclusive growth and sustainable places.

Qualifications

• At least five years’ post‑qualification experience and eligibility for membership of a professional body.
• Sound knowledge of planning legislation, the NPPF and local and community policies.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills.
• A creative and pragmatic approach to delivering the best outcomes possible with people and local communities at the forefront.
• A commitment to mentoring and supporting staff to be the best they can be at all times.

Responsibilities

• developing strategies for complex development proposals.
• championing exemplary design and placemaking.
• leading and managing the representation of the Councils at appeal or in major and complex planning proceedings to safeguard robust decision making, which meets the high standards we expect.
• production and delivery of the Service Plan and associated business, service improvement and project plans.
• working with and supporting our communities to play their part in delivering the Councils’ vision for sustainable growth.
• building strong and productive relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• supporting and mentoring team members with continuous professional development.

Skills

Leadership

Planning law knowledge

Design and placemaking

Communication skills

Mentoring staff

Education

Professional body membership eligibility

Job description

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are seeking a Planning Lead for Development Management, known internally as the Strategic and Professional Lead for Development Management. You will sit at the heart of our growth and placemaking agenda, guiding complex proposals and championing high‑quality design.

Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, you will work with communities, partners and internal teams to deliver inclusive growth and sustainable places.