Are you an ambitious planning professional looking for a new role for the new year? This could be the opportunity for you. The post focuses on team management within Development Management as well as working on large and interesting planning applications. This is a very exciting time to join Runnymede Borough Council. Runnymede is working to deliver the contents of its adopted local plan and has a wide range of interesting work to increase your experience in a supportive environment. We are a friendly and ambitious Development Management team who have a great track record in delivering projects and are looking for a positive individual to join our team. We have a relatively up to date local plan and a team of permanent staff with significant experience in planning. The primary function of the role is to assist the Corporate Head of Planning, Economy & Built Environment and Development Manager in the delivery of the wider Development Management Service. The main objectives of the role are :- 1. To assist in the signing off of delegated planning applications. 2. To be responsible for your own case load of mainly large high profile planning applications 3. That other specialist functions including technical administration are properly and fully discharged. 4. To assist with service improvement. 5. That the quality of work of the DM team is of a high standard so as to ensure development contributes to the social, economic and environmental well being of the Borough. 6. Targets, with particular reference to the quality and speed of decision making, described in the Planning Business Plan are met (particularly in area of focus). Joining us now you will be part of our team as we transition in to West Surrey Unitary Council. On formation West Surrey will be one of the largest Planning Authorities in the country handling more than 5000 planning applications a year. West Surrey has a very strong economy from a broad business base and also has significant housing needs, and as such there will be plenty of interesting work. The size of the authority and variety of work will provide significant opportunities to gain very broad experience and for career growth and development in a large team with multiple varied career paths. It is a very exciting time to be working in West Surrey. In addition to a competitive salary, Runnymede Borough Council offers: Hybrid working Flexible working 7am-7pm & Flexi-leave 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays Excellent Pension Scheme Free Parking Training and development opportunities Payment of one professional membership per annum Cycle to work further related discounts Season ticket loan Health insurance plan after 1 years’ service Dental insurance plan after 3 years’ service About You We’re looking for an experienced planning professional who has the skills to lead on a number of high-profile planning matters and contribute to the leadership within the development management team and support the Corporate Head of Planning, Economy and Built Environment and the Development Manager in the delivery of the wider service. Previous experience of exercising delegated authority and of team management would be advantageous but not essential. The successful candidate should be skilled negotiator. You’ll lead either as case officer, supervisor or mentor on complex and interesting cases while contributing to the wider leadership of the development management team. Personal qualities are just as important as professional skills. The successful candidate must work in a highly collaborative way with other functions, be persuasive while respecting the views of others, possess tact and diplomacy, be resilient and handle stressful situations well. If you would like to find out more about the role or working with us please contact Victoria Gibson (Development Manager - Victoria.Gibson@runnymede.gov.uk ) or Ashley Smith (Corporate Head of Planning, Economy and Built Environment – Ashley.smith@runnymede.gov.uk ) Interviews: 18th, 19th and 20th Februrary 2026 About Runnymede Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward- thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our core values which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We are always keen to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision. Runnymede Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with care support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You may be requested to present your identification at the interview stage and there will be several checks conducted during the onboarding process inclusive of an enhanced DBS check for specified roles. All applications are handled in compliance with our privacy policy