About this role
Shape the future of one of England’s most extraordinary landscapes.
Northumberland National Park is a place of exceptional natural beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant communities. We are looking for a committed and highly skilled Head of Development Management to lead our small planning service (three staff and approximately 120 planning applications per year) and help us protect, enhance, and promote this unique National Park for current and future generations.
As guardians of this remarkable National Park, our mission is to protect and enhance its special qualities while supporting vibrant, resilient communities and sustainable development. We believe in planning as a force for good – balancing conservation with innovation, and enabling a future where nature, culture, and people thrive together.
As the statutory local planning authority for the National Park, we play a pivotal role in balancing sustainable development with conservation. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced planning professional to influence the future of this remarkable landscape while delivering an exceptional planning service.
If you are an experienced planning professional with the passion, vision, and leadership skills to make a difference, we want to hear from you.
As Head of Development Management, you will:
1. Lead the Development Management and Enforcement functions for the Authority.
2. Represent the Authority at local, regional, and national levels, including planning inquiries, hearings, and partnership forums.
3. Provide strong leadership to a small, dedicated team, fostering a culture of professionalism, innovation, and continuous improvement.
4. Oversee the preparation and presentation of reports in respect of planning and other development management applications to the National Park Authority and to sign off decisions in respect of delegated applications.
About You
You will bring:
5. A degree in Town and Country Planning (or equivalent) and RTPI membership (or eligibility).
6. In-depth knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and practice.
7. Significant experience in development management ideally within a rural or protected landscape context.
8. Strong leadership and management skills with a track record of motivating teams and delivering results.
9. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
Why Join Us?
10. Make a tangible difference in shaping the future of a protected landscape.
11. Join a forward-thinking, values-driven organisation committed to sustainability and community empowerment.
12. Enjoy flexible working, professional development opportunities, award-winning wellbeing initiatives and a supportive team culture.
13. Work in one of the most beautiful and tranquil parts of the UK.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about planning and want to play a leading role in protecting and enhancing Northumberland National Park, we’d love to hear from you.