Who You Are You hold a degree accredited by the RTPI, making you eligible for its membership, and have at least three years of post-qualification experience in development management at a senior level. You possess proven experience in managing, mentoring staff, and negotiating successful outcomes on major planning applications. You have a deep knowledge of planning legislation, policies, and procedures related to development management. Your ability to understand complex drawings, along with a solid grounding in design, viability testing, and sustainability, is essential. You can write clear, concise reports on complex applications and make sound decisions under delegated authority. You excel in communicating effectively with various audiences, including the public, Councillors, and applicants, both in writing and verbally. With good political awareness, you can present cases at Planning Committees and appeals processes effectively. Additionally, you manage team workloads efficiently, meeting deadlines with minimal supervision. A full UK driving license is necessary. What the Job Involves As the Deputy Area Planning Manager, you will be responsible for managing an area team of 5-6 professionals, assuming management responsibilities in all aspects of development management. You will oversee processing applications, handling appeals, and responding to inquiries and complaints. When deputising, you will allocate planning applications and make decisions in line with the Council's Constitution. You will ensure reports for the Planning Committee are completed on time and to a high standard, and present major cases when necessary. The role includes providing pre-application advice, leading casework for major strategic cases, and preparing written statements for appeals and inquiries. You will negotiate planning obligations and develop strong relationships with stakeholders to promote high-quality sustainable development. Additionally, responsibilities include staff recruitment, motivation, discipline, capability management, and developing team members while ensuring compliance with all Council policies and procedures, from Health and Safety to Information Security.