Local Plan Team Leader (Planning)

Interim Local Plan Team Leader (Planning)

Job Ref: Bradford

Pay Rate: £40.16 per hour PAYE

Hours per week: 37 Monday - Friday, normal working hours

Role Length: This opening assignment is for 6 months

City: BRADFORD

Lead key strategic elements of the local plan, finalizing Regulation 19 content and supporting evidence, with a focus on housing and employment. You'll oversee policies, scale, distribution, and site allocations, providing expert technical advice to the team.

• Lead the explanation and interpretation of local planning policy, preparing new Local Plan Documents and Supplementary Planning Documents.
• Manage the local team, ensuring resources, systems, and procedures are in place to deliver efficient services within budget constraints.
• Set performance indicators, monitor workload, and allocate resources to meet targets and deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with Council Policies, Codes of Practice, and Health & Safety regulations.
• Advise senior management on the professional, technical, and political implications of the group's work and monitor relevant legislation.
• Lead the development of the local plan, collaborating with senior leadership and stakeholders to drive sustainable growth and transformation.
• Act as the lead contact for senior stakeholders, including government, the Environment Agency, and developers, to address complex planning issues and secure partner alignment.

• NVQ Level 5 in Management or demonstrable equivalent experience.
• A relevant degree in planning, urban development, or a related field.
• Eligible to be a corporate member of Royal Town Planning Institute.
• In-depth knowledge of planning policy, statutory planning processes, and relevant legislation (e.g., the Town and Country Planning Act, National Planning Policy Framework).
• Significant experience in local planning and the preparation of local plans, particularly Regulation 19 content.
• Experience of project management for complex projects/programmes to ensure the successful delivery of projects within pre-determined timescales and budgets.
• Significant (at least 3 years) experience of leading, managing the work of professional staff and motivating staff at a senior level to deliver high quality services including a proven track record of effective operational and personal management.
• At least 5 years experience at a senior level in the Planning field, which includes:
  • Experience of leading on complex planning projects.
  • Working with strategic stakeholders including other authorities and elected members, as well as representing the Council.
  • Successful track record in leading, developing and implementing corporate strategies and policies within the service area concerned.
  • Advise on policy & operational issues relating to the service area.
  • Experience of promoting the policies, core values and services to the organisation's customers and stakeholders, using a variety of techniques.
• Proven track record of managing resources including budgets and bringing these in on target.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess, interpret, and present planning evidence and data effectively.