Head of Planning

Teqniq is searching for a Head of Planning to work in the public sector.

37 hours per week.

3 months contract.

09:00-17:00

Job Description:

As Head of Planning, you will have a crucial role in leading the Planning Service across both authorities. Your appointment is fundamental to the team structure, you will have experience of leading and motivating during times of organisational change and demonstrate an in-depth understanding of organisational culture. You will be responsible for leading the production of the Local Plans for each authority, together with the continued running of the Development Management service, ensuring the that we meet national targets and continue to improve our customer service.

You will be both organisations’ professional lead for all Planning disciplines; in what will be a high-profile role with councillors at all levels – from the Leaders to the backbenchers. You will oversee a Policy team that is bringing forward separate local plan documents for each council, is assisting with the preparation of neighbourhood plans in Lewes and a Community Infrastructure Levy team.

We are seeking an individual who is looking to grow with the organisation and provide innovative insights to achieving excellent performance within the service and deliver continued improvement through our transformation process, and beyond.

As Head of Planning, you will be responsible for:

• Leading the planning service
• Ensuring planning supports the strategic place shaping agenda.
• Evaluation, negotiation, recommendation of applications
• Ability to work with landowners and developers on ensuring high quality sustainable schemes are delivered.
• Leading the Planning Policy formulation
• Briefing committees and Council Members as well as representing the Council at appeals, hearings, and public inquiries.
• Leading planning service improvements and projects
• Assisting with recruiting and developing a well-functioning planning team and managing the team’s workloads, finances, and budgets.

To succeed as Head of Planning you must be competent in a variety of IT systems and packages. You will communicate with customers, colleagues, and managers of different social, economic, and professional backgrounds via face-to-face, email and telephone. You must also have:

• A recognised planning qualification
• Full RTPI Membership
• Aptitude for progressing applications and development projects
• Aptitude for Planning Policy formulation
• Management and supervisory experience
• High level communication and presentation skills including clear, concise reporting and correspondence particularly concerning complex or controversial issues
• A working understanding of The Building Regulations

Eastbourne and Lewes offer a diverse mix of environments; including the larger urban area of Eastbourne, the historic county town of Lewes, small towns, and villages in and around the National Park and a large area of coastal strip. This role will offer both varieties, and a high-profile opportunity for the right candidate to really make their mark.

TEQ-0124-RQ1160039

IND2

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