Strategic Planning Lead: Development & Placemaking (Hybrid)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Generous leave entitlement

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing Support and Employee Assist.

Private Health Care Options

Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice

Paid volunteering days

Flexible and hybrid working

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils is seeking a Planning Lead for Development Management to drive growth and placemaking. Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, you will lead complex proposals, champion design, and manage appeals to ensure robust decisions.

You will build strong relationships with internal teams and external partners, mentor staff and contribute to the service plan and continuous improvement of the planning service.

Qualifications

• Five years’ post‑qualification experience and eligibility for membership of an appropriate professional body.
• Knowledge of planning legislation, the NPPF and local/community policies.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills.
• Creative and pragmatic approach to delivering outcomes with communities at the forefront.
• Commitment to mentoring and supporting staff to be their best.
• Commitment to our values and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategies for complex development proposals.
• Champion exemplary design and placemaking.
• Lead and manage representation at appeal or major planning proceedings to safeguard robust decisions.
• Produce and deliver the Service Plan and associated business, service improvement and project plans.
• Work with communities to deliver sustainable growth in line with council visions.
• Build strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Mentor and develop team members.

Skills

Leadership

Written and verbal communication

Mentoring

Strategic thinking

Creative problem solving

Education

Chartered planner eligibility

Job description

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils is seeking a Planning Lead for Development Management to drive growth and placemaking. Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, you will lead complex proposals, champion design, and manage appeals to ensure robust decisions.

You will build strong relationships with internal teams and external partners, mentor staff and contribute to the service plan and continuous improvement of the planning service.