Planning Development Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Planning Development Manager to lead the delivery of our statutory county planning and development management service. This senior leadership role will drive high‑quality planning services, continuous improvement and high‑performing teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the operational delivery of planning applications and enforcement services.
• Oversee the Planning Committee process, enforcement activity, statutory notices and court proceedings.
• Collaborate with the Head of Strategic Planning on minerals and waste planning policy and strategy.
• Drive service improvement, innovation and performance across the planning service.
• Identify and develop income‑generation opportunities such as pre‑application advice, monitoring fees and planning support for capital programmes.
• Provide expert advice to senior leadership on operational planning matters.
• Represent the organisation at planning inquiries, hearings, appeals and court proceedings.

Required profile

• A degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Membership of, or eligibility for membership of, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Management qualification (NVQ Level 3) or substantial experience leading a Development Management service.
• Significant experience managing and developing teams within Development Management.
• Extensive knowledge of planning legislation, development management processes, appeals and enforcement.
• Experience of minerals and waste planning policy and its application within local government.
• Proven track record of delivering complex change programmes and service improvements.
• Strong financial awareness and experience making operational decisions with budget implications.
• Excellent judgement, communication, presentation, negotiation and report‑writing skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working based in Oxford.
• Day rate of £450‑£500 (umbrella, negotiable).
• Opportunity to shape the future of county planning services.