Our client is seeking a dedicated Development Management Area Team Leader to join their team on a contract basis. This role involves managing the development within the framework of current town planning and associated legislation, preparing reports, and making recommendations on applications. It also includes taking decisions on planning applications on behalf of the Chief Planner and supporting the management team to deliver a high-quality service.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage the Development Management team under the direction of the Head of Development Management to ensure consistency and efficient workload discharge.
- Highlight policy matters or issues to the Head of Development Management.
- Examine development applications and guide team members on appropriate actions, including organising screening meetings and negotiating with applicants.
- Represent the Chief Planner at Planning Committees and advise Members on planning policy matters.
- Act as an expert witness at Local inquiries on complex issues.
- Interpret, apply, and enforce current town planning and associated legislation.
- Assist in the supervision and instruction of other teams within the division.
- Decide on planning applications and related matters under delegated powers.
- Produce and check planning application reports, especially for special or contentious items.
- Lead team members in negotiations with applicants, developers, and other stakeholders.
- Provide advice on the implications of development on communities, considering infrastructure and sustainability.
- Liaise with statutory and non-statutory consultees to assist in the determination of applications.
- Represent the Division at internal and external meetings, public events, and other relevant forums.
- Respond to correspondence and telephone enquiries related to the team's work and approve outgoing correspondence.
- Advise on alleged breaches of planning control and represent the Council in court when required.
- Contribute to the Planning Division's work, meeting deadlines and corporate initiatives.
- Implement continuous improvement initiatives and other duties as required.
Job Requirements:
- Experience in managing staff within a planning environment and running a heavy workload.
- In-depth knowledge of planning legislation.
- Experience in advising staff, Members, and the public on planning permissions and the likelihood of approval.
- Proficiency in preparing and presenting evidence at major planning inquiries.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to address a wide range of audiences.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Ability to motivate and lead a team of professionals.
- MRTPI or eligibility for membership.
Skills & Abilities:
- Clear and confident oral communication with Members and various stakeholders.
- Clear, concise, and well-structured written communication.
- Excellent organisation and lateral thinking skills to lead staff in meeting deadlines.
- Capability to present the Council's case to Members, in court, and at appeals.
- Ability to apply a proactive approach to workflow and continuous improvement initiatives.
If you possess the skills and experience in town planning and are looking for a dynamic role to manage a dedicated team, we encourage you to apply now. Join our client in delivering high-quality planning services and making a significant impact within the planning sector.
