About Stroud District Council Stroud District Council is at a pivotal moment, making this an exciting time to join our leadership team. We are a forward-thinking council committed to sustainability, regeneration, and economic growth. Our work shapes the future of our communities, ensuring Stroud District remains a thriving and dynamic place to live and work. Planning is central to our ambitions. We take a proactive approach to place-making, with a strong emphasis on delivering sustainable development that balances the need for new homes, infrastructure, and economic growth while protecting our distinctive environment. Our flagship Cotswold Canals Connected project exemplifies this approach, restoring a historic waterway and delivering significant social, environmental, and economic benefits. The council is also preparing for potential local government reorganisation in the years to come, which presents a rare opportunity to influence the future of place-based services across Gloucestershire. Our role in shaping strategic planning and infrastructure decisions will be critical to ensuring that the needs of Stroud District’s communities and businesses remain a priority. We value collaboration, innovation, and ambition. We are looking for leaders who want to make a lasting impact—those who see this as more than just a job, but as an opportunity to shape the future of a district known for its bold thinking and commitment to its people and places. About You We are seeking a strategic, forward-thinking leader with a passion for planning and place-making. You will have a strong background in planning policy, development management, or regeneration, with the expertise to guide Stroud District through a complex planning landscape. Your leadership will ensure that we deliver sustainable, well-designed, and thriving communities while supporting economic growth and infrastructure development. You will be confident in working with government agencies, developers, and local communities to deliver growth while preserving the district’s unique character. This role requires a leader who can balance strategic oversight with practical delivery. You will need to navigate infrastructure challenges, shape responses to national planning reforms, and influence key decisions at a regional level. This is a unique opportunity to lead planning, regeneration, and economic growth in one of the UK’s most distinctive districts. If you are ready to take on a leadership role that will shape the future of Stroud for generations to come, we look forward to hearing from you. About the Role As Strategic Director of Place, you will lead Stroud’s approach to sustainable growth, planning, regeneration, and economic development. You will oversee planning strategy and development management, ensuring our planning framework supports the delivery of new homes, infrastructure, and business growth while protecting our natural and historic assets. A key challenge will be shaping the future of our Local Plan. With our draft plan facing uncertainty, you will provide the strategic leadership needed to determine the best course of action. Your leadership will be vital in ensuring that the district remains in control of its growth strategy while addressing infrastructure challenges. Beyond planning strategy, you will play a critical role in regeneration and economic development, ensuring Stroud District attracts investment and delivers high-quality, sustainable places. Our flagship canal restoration project will remain a key focus, and your leadership will help maximise its long-term benefits for our communities and businesses. With local government reorganisation on the horizon, you will also have the opportunity to shape how place-based services evolve across Gloucestershire. Your ability to influence decision-making at a county and regional level will ensure that the district’s interests remain at the forefront of any future governance changes. For further information, or get in touch with our recruitment partners at Tile Hill: Maud Hollis (07444 696659) or Clare Connor (0161 4080703). Closing date: 9am Tuesday 15th April To apply please click the Apply Now link below.