Area Manager
Location: Brympton Way, Yeovil, BA202HT
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Duration: 6+ Months
Working Hours: Mon – Fri, 09:00 – 17:00, 37 Hours per week
Pay Rate: £ 61.24 per hour
Job Ref: OR11403
Responsibilities
Lead two development management area teams, ensuring high-quality, customer-focused service in determining planning applications.
Assist in managing the Development Management Service and lead area teams in planning applications, collaborating with internal and external consultees.
Oversee professional management of applications from pre-application stage to compliance, adhering to the Council’s constitution and delegation scheme.
Drive the teams to exceed performance targets, maximize income through fees and charges, and implement organizational and policy changes.
Serve as the lead professional officer at Area Planning Committees, supporting Members in making informed planning decisions aligned with Development Plans and corporate objectives.
Deputize for senior management, providing support and advice across cases and dealing with complex applications and external contacts.
Ensure reports and recommendations comply with legal and corporate procedures, addressing objections and weighing planning considerations.
Attend and present reports at Area Planning Committee meetings, addressing queries from members, objectors, and interested parties.
Maintain the functioning of Area Planning Committees, ensuring confidence through briefings and training for the Chair, Vice Chair, and Members.
Represent the Council in public inquiries and hearings, providing expert evidence and handling complaints, investigations, and inquiries.
Line manage and mentor Principal Planning Officers and their teams, addressing performance and welfare issues.
Person Specification
Knowledge
Understanding of statutory regulations related to planning and environmental legislation.
Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.
Experience
Operational and managerial experience in local authority planning services and development management.
Experience in designing and implementing service transformation processes for improvement.
Proven track record of leading, managing, and developing large teams and service areas.
Experience in performance management and handling external accountabilities.
Providing professional advice on complex applications to planning committees.
Strategic input to policy development and strategy.
Experience in giving evidence at Public Inquiries/Development Plan Examinations.
Handling customer complaints and inquiries effectively.
Qualifications / Registrations / Certifications
Degree in planning, geography, or a related subject.
Chartered member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI) or eligibility for membership.
Management qualification ILM 5 or higher.
Evidence of continual professional development as per professional institute requirements.
Skills
Ability to advise senior management and elected members on complex planning issues.
Resilient nature with excellent communication skills for public and stakeholder interactions.
Proficiency in providing professional advice and guidance.
Attention to detail in decision checking.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with partner organizations.
Strong interpersonal skills and teamwork capabilities.
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