Overview
Join to apply for the Strategic Design Lead role at WMJobs.
Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Councils are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Strategic Design Lead to champion the creation of high-quality, sustainable, and distinctive places across the district. This is a unique opportunity to shape how our communities grow by leading the design of strategic sites and influencing the character, identity, and functionality of new development through thoughtful, place-led planning.
In this role, you will provide expert urban design advice across a range of strategic projects, including masterplans, development briefs, and design policy. As the Council’s strategic lead, you will manage a small team, set direction, and ensure consistently high standards in design outcomes. Your work will help deliver well-connected, resilient environments that reflect local distinctiveness and meet the needs of current and future communities.
Be mindful of travel across the districts as required.
Responsibilities
* Provide expert urban design advice on strategic sites and complex projects in both urban and rural contexts.
* Develop and apply urban design policy and guidance, including masterplans, concept diagrams, design codes, and development briefs.
* Lead and manage an urban design team, setting direction and prioritising work to ensure high-quality design outcomes.
* Work within multi-disciplinary project teams and resolve issues collaboratively.
* Communicate design ideas clearly, including graphical conveyance of concepts.
Qualifications
* A postgraduate qualification in urban design or a related field (e.g. architecture, planning, built environment).
* A strong understanding of the UK planning system, development management, and urban design principles and best practice.
* Extensive experience providing urban design advice on strategic sites and complex projects in urban and rural contexts.
* Experience developing urban design policy and guidance (masterplans, concept diagrams, design codes, development briefs).
* Experience working within local government and navigating political contexts.
* Proven ability to work effectively within multi-disciplinary teams and resolve issues collaboratively.
* Leadership experience managing an urban design team.
* Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey ideas graphically.
* Proficiency in design and technical tools, including Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD/SketchUp, and GIS.
What We Offer
* Excellent local government pension scheme with employer contributions
* Generous annual leave entitlement, with options to purchase additional leave
* A committed training and development programme
* Onsite nursery with 20% staff discount
* Discounted gym and swim membership
* Health and wellbeing support, including a free Employee Assistance Programme with access to counselling
* Cycle to Work scheme
* Employee discounts with a range of companies, including EE and the Kaarp discount scheme
Additional Information
Our roles have an office-based requirement, with some agile working. You will need to be able to travel throughout the districts.
Closing date: Sunday 7 September 2025
Interview date: Tuesday 16 September 2025
To discuss the post or for further information, please call Rebecca L Hart on +44 (0)1386 565384
Please note if we experience a high intake of applications, we may close the role and interview for the position sooner than advertised.
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