Job Description
3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• Head of Planning Policy and Strategy – Bromley Council. This senior leadership role provides strategic oversight for all aspects of Development Planning in line with the Council’s Corporate Operating Principles and the Bromley Local Plan.
• The postholder leads the preparation of Development Plans, ensures statutory compliance, and contributes to policy development at a strategic level.
• They manage Development Planning Services, lead a team of approximately 18 staff, and are responsible for service budgets and performance management.
• The role requires collaboration with internal teams, elected members, external agencies (e.g., GLA, Environment Agency), and other stakeholders.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Lead and manage Development Planning services, ensuring compliance with statutory planning requirements and Council policies.
• Direct the preparation, monitoring, and review of Development Plans and related guidance for the borough.
• Oversee S106 obligations, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), and the Infrastructure Delivery Plan.
• Act as lead officer at Planning Committees on Development Plan matters and ensure effective councillor communication.
• Manage service budgets and ensure resources are deployed efficiently to achieve service objectives.
• Build, develop, and motivate high-performing teams; manage staff performance and development.
• Develop and maintain effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, voluntary sector, and other local authorities.
• Represent Bromley Council at local and national forums, acting as an ambassador for Planning Services.
• Ensure high standards of customer service, consultation, and community engagement in planning processes.
• Contribute to corporate strategy, vision, and performance management within Planning Services and the wider department.
Skills/Experience:
• Extensive senior management experience in Development Planning within a local authority or large complex organisation.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, policy formulation, and delivering Development Plans.
• Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, monitoring, and control.
• Experience of leading organisational change and managing performance in complex services.
• Excellent stakeholder management and partnership-building skills.
• Knowledge of relevant planning legislation, guidance, and professional standards (RTPI).
• Experience of preparing evidence and presenting at Development Plan examinations, planning appeals, and hearings.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage political interfaces and multi-agency collaborations effectively.
• Understanding of equalities and commitment to promoting diversity.
Additional Information:
• Chartered Town Planner (RTPI) or equivalent professional qualification/experience.
• The closing date: 09/12/2025.
• Location: Churchill Court, Bromley, Kent.
• Hours: 36 per week.
• Hybrid working pattern (2-3 days per week in office) with flexibility required.
• Politically aware role, working closely with councillors and senior executives.
Requirements
• Extensive senior management experience in Development Planning within a local authority or large complex organisation. • Proven experience in strategic planning, policy formulation, and delivering Development Plans. • Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, monitoring, and control. • Experience of leading organisational change and managing performance in complex services. • Excellent stakeholder management and partnership-building skills. • Knowledge of relevant planning legislation, guidance, and professional standards (RTPI). • Experience of preparing evidence and presenting at Development Plan examinations, planning appeals, and hearings. • Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills. • Ability to manage political interfaces and multi-agency collaborations effectively. • Understanding of equalities and commitment to promoting diversity.