Strategic Planning Lead - Growth, Design & Placemaking

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council; Ipswich; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26 days leave

LGPS (Local Government Pension Scheme)

Wellbeing support

Private health care options

EV salary sacrifice scheme

Volunteer days

Hybrid working

Job summary

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are seeking a Planning Lead for Development Management to drive inclusive growth and high-quality placemaking across their districts. Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, you will lead complex proposals, policy delivery and strengthen partnerships with communities and external partners.

We value a creative, pragmatic leader who champions design excellence, supports staff development and aligns with our commitment to sustainable growth and climate

Qualifications

• Five years’ post-qualification experience and eligibility for membership of an appropriate professional body.
• Sound knowledge of planning legislation, the NPPF and local policies.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills.
• Creative and pragmatic approach to delivering the best outcomes possible with communities at the forefront.
• Commitment to mentoring and supporting staff to be the best they can be.
• Commitment to our values, behaviours and culture of continuous improvement.

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.
• Producing and delivering the Service Plan and related business, service improvement and project plans.
• Working with and supporting communities to deliver the councils’ vision for sustainable growth.
• Building strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Supporting and mentoring team members with professional development.

Skills

Post-qualification experience

Planning legislation knowledge

NPPF knowledge

Written and verbal communication

Design & placemaking

Mentoring staff

Values and continuous improvement

Job description

Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are seeking a Planning Lead for Development Management to drive inclusive growth and high-quality placemaking across their districts. Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, you will lead complex proposals, policy delivery and strengthen partnerships with communities and external partners.

We value a creative, pragmatic leader who champions design excellence, supports staff development and aligns with our commitment to sustainable growth and climate