Deputy Planning Manager (Development Management)
The Development Management team at Canterbury City Council are looking for a Deputy Planning Manager to join them.
We are offering an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and capable planning professional to further their career in planning and develop their skills in management. We are committed to individual career development, and we pride ourselves on our track record of helping colleagues to fulfil their potential and take opportunities both within the Council and elsewhere.
Starting salary £51,760.00 (up to £59,138.39) plus 7.5% current market supplement and £3,621 annual car allowance
* Cost of living pay award negotiated annually as a salary increase.
* Mainly remote online working in the UK - we understand the importance of a good work-life balance and the need to work around other commitments such as ‘the school run’ and caring responsibilities.
* We offer a generous annual leave entitlement! You’ll receive 23 days annual leave, which increases over time with continuous Local Government service PLUS 3 given days, which are usually used over the Christmas period when our main offices are closed. You’ll also have the option to buy more annual leave.
* We will pay your Royal Town Planning Institute membership fee each year.
* We do not work on Bank Holidays.
* A fantastic local government pension scheme.
* We’ll support and encourage your career by providing excellent opportunities for training and development.
* Employee perks, including multiple retailer and lifestyle discounts to help you get the most out of your money and enjoy your free time.
* Opt-in benefits, such as salary sacrifice for childcare vouchers, etc. An easier commute: free use of Canterbury’s Park and Ride, flexi bus tickets, reduced train season ticket loans, and a cycle-to-work scheme
* Stay healthy: Access to free counselling, advice and webinars through our employee assistance programme, as well as contributions to the cost of Flu Jabs.
* We have close links with the University of Kent and Design Southeast, so there will also be training and career development opportunities to further your knowledge and experience in particular areas of planning, such as sustainability and urban design.
About this Deputy Planning Manager job:
This role is important to the delivery of a high-quality and effective planning service. We have an ambitious housing and economic growth agenda and are committed to addressing climate change and protecting the natural environment around Canterbury. The Council is on track to adopt a new Local Plan in the next few years, and we are looking for a Deputy Planning Manager to play a major part in the management of the Planning team at the centre of shaping the future of the district over the next 20 years and beyond.
Here’s what you’ll get up to:
* You will work closely with the Planning Manager in delivering a high-quality and effective planning service that meets and exceeds national and corporate targets and objectives.
* You will manage a caseload of strategic development sites from pre-application through to delivery, working directly with developers and architects, as well as local councillors and interest groups.
* You will liaise with other teams within the Council on the delivery of corporate projects.
* You will directly line-manage officers of the team, supporting them in managing their caseloads and empowering them to use their own initiative and make decisions. You will also play an important part in their career progression, carrying out regular appraisals and developing their knowledge, experience and skills further.
* You will lead on, attend and present reports to the Planning Committee, working groups and other public meetings as required.
* You will represent the Council in planning appeals at informal hearings and public inquiries on planning, enforcement and/or heritage matters.
* You will take part in the development, formulation and revision of planning policy and guidance documents.
* You will be part of a friendly and highly supportive team.
Working pattern:
* Flexible working; the role is not office-based.
* You will work virtually (in the UK), as well as visit sites across the district as and when needed.
* 23 days annual leave plus three extra days over the Christmas period when our main offices are closed.
* You’ll also have the option to buy additional days of annual leave, if you wish to
* The team meets regularly, both virtually and in-person, to keep in touch and share our ideas and experiences.
* Contract type: Permanent
About you, the ideal Deputy Planning Manager for the job:
Your knowledge:
* Excellent knowledge of the land use planning system, the legislative framework and current best practice
* Excellent understanding of the operation of local government and the challenges it faces in delivering the planning service
Your skills:
* Communication is key
* You will be capable of taking full responsibility for managing major planning projects
* You must be confident to engage positively with developers and councillors
* An important part of the role is for you to support less experienced officers to progress their careers
Your qualifications:
* An undergraduate degree
* Postgraduate qualification in planning
* Membership of the RTPI is desirable but not essential
Due to the nature of this role, it is a politically restricted post. A full driving licence and own car is essential.
So, if this Deputy Planning Manager job opportunity in Canterbury looks right for you, please apply today! Simply click the “Apply Online” button and create your account to begin your application form.
Application closing date 02/01/2025.