Lead Town Planner

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Leadership role

Collaborative environment

Stakeholder engagement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Town Planner to oversee strategic planning initiatives in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This leadership role requires a Master’s degree in Town and Regional Planning and SACPLAN registration, with a minimum of 10 years of senior experience and strong GIS skills.

You will lead a team of planners, manage complex development projects, and engage stakeholders to align with municipal frameworks and sustainability goals across Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation and implementation of spatial development frameworks and zoning schemes.
• Manage the assessment and approval process for development applications and rezoning proposals.
• Conduct feasibility studies, impact assessments, and strategic planning analyses.
• Facilitate public participation processes, including consultations and stakeholder workshops.
• Liaise effectively with municipal officials, government departments, developers, and community groups.
• Provide expert advice on planning legislation, policy, and best practices.
• Mentor and supervise junior town planners and planning support staff.
• Contribute to the strategic planning direction of the consultancy and its clients.
• Ensure that development promotes sustainable urban growth and environmental stewardship.

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent development planning consultancy, is seeking an experienced Lead Town Planner to oversee strategic planning initiatives in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This leadership role is crucial for guiding urban development, land use management, and policy formulation within the region. You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of complex planning projects, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring that development aligns with municipal frameworks and sustainability goals. The Lead Town Planner will play a vital part in shaping the future growth of Vereeniging and its surrounding areas, fostering cohesive and functional urban environments. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of town planning legislation, development processes, and community engagement strategies. Strong analytical, decision-making, and communication skills are essential. This position offers a significant opportunity to influence development trajectories and contribute meaningfully to the Gauteng province's urban landscape. You will lead a team of planners and contribute to strategic decision-making processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and implementation of spatial development frameworks and zoning schemes.
• Manage the assessment and approval process for development applications and rezoning proposals.
• Conduct feasibility studies, impact assessments, and strategic planning analyses.
• Facilitate public participation processes, including consultations and stakeholder workshops.
• Liaise effectively with municipal officials, government departments, developers, and community groups.
• Provide expert advice on planning legislation, policy, and best practices.
• Mentor and supervise junior town planners and planning support staff.
• Contribute to the strategic planning direction of the consultancy and its clients.
• Ensure that development promotes sustainable urban growth and environmental stewardship.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Town and Regional Planning or a related discipline.
• Professional registration with the South African Council for Planners (SACPLAN) is mandatory.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in town planning, with a proven track record in a leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of South African planning legislation (e.g., SPLUMA) and policy frameworks.
• Experience in managing complex development projects and stakeholder negotiations.
• Proficiency in GIS and other relevant planning software.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and deliver projects effectively.
• Experience in Gauteng's planning environment is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package aligned with the seniority of the role.
• Opportunity to lead significant planning projects in Vereeniging, Gauteng.
• Professional development and continuous learning support.
• Collaborative work environment fostering professional growth.
• Contribution to shaping the urban fabric of the Gauteng province.
• Direct engagement with key stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Access to a diverse range of planning challenges and opportunities.