Interim Development Manager - South East

A busy local authority based in the Home Counties are looking for interim cover for their DM function. The post is for 3-6 months with view to extending should a permanent appointment not be found.

The main duty is to lead and support the Development Management Section under the guidance of the Head of Service, assigning work to teams and specialists to ensure effective processing of planning and other applications, and all other customer demands placed on the service. This includes effective delivery of services through the planning reception, presenting reports to Committee and giving evidence to Courts or Inquiries.

Responsibilities will include:

• To provide professional leadership of the Council's Development Control Service
• To inspire and manage the Senior Planning Officer, Planning Officers and Planning Assistants enabling them to perform their roles to a high standard and meet performance targets and standards
• To ensure (in collaboration with others) that in respect of the Development Control Service, continuous improvement, value for money and best value are delivered by challenging existing practices while setting targets for improvement. Intervening as necessary ensuring an efficient, high performing and customer focused service
• In respect of planning applications you will be expected to agree the appropriate decision making route and ensure all relevant information is compiled, assessed and presented - including the formulation of recommendations
• To provide high level support and advice to the Chairman of Planning Committee, Elected Members, Partners and Stakeholders to secure joined up working across the Council's area.
• To ensure the Head of Service is kept up to date and appropriately advised on the Council's discharge of its responsibilities, duties and powers towards Development Control

Experience of leading teams within Planning would be essential as you will be expected to hit the ground running.

If this is a role that interests you and you would like to put yourself forward then please send us your application. Alternatively, if you would like to have a discussion regarding the role first feel free to give Jamie Vear-Altog a call on 0207 766 9067.