Transportation Strategy Manager

Devon County Council; Exeter; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Devon County Council invites applications for a Transportation Strategy Manager to lead our Transport Planning team and steer the Local Transport Plan in a period of significant transformation. You will work closely with the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority and neighbouring authorities to develop the future transport function for the Devon area.

You will oversee consultants and external partners, represent Devon in regional and national forums, and advise elected Members and senior

Responsibilities

• Lead the Transport Planning team to deliver the Local Transport Plan.
• Shape transport planning during Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution.
• Define the future transport function for the Devon area and oversee consultants/external partners.
• Represent Devon at regional and national forums to secure investment opportunities and shape transport policy.
• Provide expert advice to elected Members and senior officers and build partnerships across organisations.

Job description

Contact: For an informal discussion about the role, please contact [e-mail]

Region: England - South West

Location: Exeter (Devon)

Category: Transport planning

Closes: 13 Sep 2026

More info:

Job Description

Fixed Term until 31st March 2027

Full Time 37 hours per week

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join Devon County Council on a fixed-term placement until April 2028 as Transportation Strategy Manager leading our Transport Planning team – this is a pivotal role at a time of significant transformation.

Devon is delivering ambitious transport programmes that support climate action, inclusive economic growth and improved connectivity for our communities. These include major investment through Active Travel and Bus Service Improvement Plan funding, alongside significant rail and road infrastructure projects, following the delivery of the newly adopted Local Transport Plan.

As Transportation Strategy Manager, you will play a leading role in shaping transport planning through a period of Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution. You will help define the future transport function for the Devon area, guiding teams through change while maintaining delivery of key strategic priorities. Working closely with the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority and neighbouring authorities, you will build capability, strengthen partnerships and support the development of a cohesive and effective Local Transport Authority.

You will lead the delivery of the Local Transport Plan, advising on investment priorities while also having input to wider strategic transport initiatives, including lead transport involvement in the public - private sector joint delivery vehicle for the Marlcombe New Town in East Devon. Representing Devon at regional and national forums, you will influence decision-making to secure investment opportunities and help shape transport policy across the South West.

Leading a multidisciplinary team of transport professionals, you will provide clear direction and stability during a period of change. You will create an environment where colleagues feel engaged, supported and empowered to adapt to new ways of working while continuing to deliver excellent outcomes. You will provide expert advice to elected Members and senior officers, represent the Council in senior-level discussions, and oversee the work of consultants and external partners.

We are seeking a visible and collaborative leader with strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills and a proven ability to lead teams through organisational change. You will be confident operating in politically sensitive environments, building trust across organisations and communicating complex issues clearly to a range of audiences. Most importantly, you will be able to bring people with you through periods of uncertainty, fostering an inclusive culture that supports development, resilience and high performance.

If you are excited by the opportunity to lead strategic transport planning while helping shape a new organisational landscape, influence investment that improves lives and supports economic growth, and guide teams successfully through transformation, we would love to hear from you.

Interview Date: w/c 21/09/2026

• DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on ourEquality and Diversity webpages .
• Happy to Talk Flexible Working -The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.