Local Plan Lead
Interim Local Plan Lead | Hybrid Working | £650-£750 per day (DOE) | Outside IR35 | Job Ref - 68119
Lead the delivery of a major Local Plan for a well-established local authority in the South West during a critical stage of its strategic planning programme. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Strategic Planning leader with a proven track record of delivering Local Plans to take ownership of a high‑profile project and work closely with senior officers and elected members.
You'll play a key role in driving the authority's Local Plan forward, establishing robust project management arrangements, leading the Strategic Planning function, and ensuring resources are focused on achieving key milestones.
This is a hybrid position requiring 3‑4 days per week on site to work closely with senior stakeholders and the wider planning team. The contract is initially six months, with the option for a further extension, offering an excellent opportunity to lead one of the region's most significant strategic planning projects.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the delivery of the authority's new Local Plan
- Establish and oversee project management and governance arrangements
- Manage and support the Strategic Planning service and wider planning teams
- Drive progress on the Local Plan and associated Design Guide
- Work closely with senior directors, elected members and key stakeholders
- Ensure planning resources are aligned to meet programme objectives
- Provide strategic leadership across the planning service
Requirements
- Significant Strategic Planning experience within a local authority
- Proven track record of successfully delivering Local Plans
- Previous experience leading planning services or large strategic planning teams
- Strong stakeholder management skills, including experience working with senior officers and elected members
- Excellent understanding of planning legislation, policy and the political environment
- Ability to lead complex programmes and deliver results within challenging timescales