Who You Are As a Deputy Area Planning Manager, you possess an appropriate degree or equivalent qualification accredited by the RTPI, making you eligible for RTPI membership. You have three years of post-qualification experience in development management at a senior level and have demonstrated your ability to manage and mentor staff effectively within a Development Management team. With proven expertise in negotiating major and strategic planning applications successfully, you have a deep understanding of planning legislation and procedures. Your sound knowledge of development management is complemented by an ability to analyze complex designs and reports, allowing you to translate them accurately into built form on site. You are known for your clear communication skills, whether orally or in writing, and possess the confidence to engage with public members, Councillors, and applicants. Your political awareness and understanding of policy and legislation changes give you the edge needed to manage team workloads and drive the successful delivery of quality results. What the Job Involves As the Deputy Area Planning Manager, your role is to support and occasionally stand in for the Area Planning Manager. You will manage an area team, ensuring performance aligns with set targets for processing applications, appeals, and other planning matters. You will lead complex service activities, manage caseloads, and ensure compliance with statutory obligations. Your responsibilities extend to being the lead officer in pre-application advice and handling all stages of major strategic cases, ensuring recommendations align with Development Plans and corporate objectives. You will prepare and present reports and presentations to the Planning Committee, negotiate with developers over planning obligations, and foster strong relationships with key stakeholders. With occasional responsibilities for staff management and recruitment, your role is integral in promoting sustainable development practices within the borough, always adhering to Council policies and procedures.