Location: Kendal, Barrow and Penrith
Contract Type: Permanent
About this opportunity
We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and visionary Senior Manager – Planning Services to lead the Planning function at Westmorland and Furness Council.
The Planning Service plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the area—driving sustainable, inclusive, and green growth across our communities. Responsible for planning policy, development management, enforcement, land charges, the service is at the forefront of delivering the Council's ambitions for place-making, housing delivery, and environmental stewardship.
As the Council's most senior manager for planning, you will report directly to the Assistant Director of Inclusive and Green Growth and provide strategic leadership across all aspects of the planning function. You will oversee the development and delivery of the Local Plan, ensuring it reflects the Council's long-term vision and statutory responsibilities.
You will lead a multidisciplinary team of around 70 professionals, driving innovation, efficiency, and customer service excellence. Working collaboratively with partners, members, and communities, you will ensure planning decisions and policies enable sustainable growth, protect our natural and built environment, and deliver positive outcomes for residents and businesses alike.
Key priorities include:
Leading the preparation, review, and implementation of the Local Plan.
Overseeing high-quality and timely decision-making in development management and enforcement.
Providing professional leadership and strategic advice on planning policy and service delivery.
Fostering strong relationships with government agencies, developers, and local communities.
Promoting continuous improvement, innovation, and staff development within the service.
This is a high-profile role with significant strategic influence, offering the opportunity to shape how Westmorland and Furness grows; socially, economically, and environmentally for generations to come.
Who we are looking for…
We are seeking a highly skilled and inspirational leader with extensive experience in planning and strategic management ideally within a Unitary Authority. You will bring the vision, professional expertise, and drive to lead a modern, high-performing planning service in a large and ambitious local authority.
You will hold chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and a Master's degree in Town Planning, Urban Planning, or a closely related discipline.
You will also demonstrate:
A comprehensive understanding of planning legislation, Local Plan preparation, and development management processes.
Significant leadership experience within a local authority or comparable organisation, with a proven record of delivering strategic outcomes.
The ability to lead and motivate multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence.
Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with experience managing complex, high-profile, or politically sensitive planning matters.
Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, able to represent the Council with credibility and professionalism.
If you are passionate about shaping sustainable places, driving forward local priorities, and delivering a forward-thinking planning service that makes a real difference, we would love to hear from you.
Due to the senior nature of this role there is an expectation that the successful candidate would be able to be based in our offices the majority of the week.
What can we offer you
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers )
Would you like to find out more?
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Gareth Candlin (Assistant Director of Inclusive and Green Growth) via email on to arrange an informal conversation.
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 01/03/2026
Interview date: W/C 09/03/2026