Planning Strategy Manager

Planning Strategy Manager

Up to £57,025 per annum, plus £5,000 market forces supplement reviewed annually (pro rata for part time)

37 hours per week, Flexible working options available

At Suffolk County Council, every role is a chance to create positive change. We're not just a local authority; we're a team of dedicated individuals working together to improve lives across our diverse communities.

As our new Planning Strategy Manager, you'll have the unique opportunity to see the direct impact of your work on the people and places that make Suffolk special, including:

• Cooperating with varied stakeholders to deliver robust local plans.
• Reviewing and shaping minerals and waste policy.
• Securing infrastructure contributions for new communities.
• The promotion of healthy environments and inclusive growth.
• Engaging in Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) and the council’s own projects.
• Forming a smooth transition through Local Government Review and Devolution.

Your contributions will help build a brighter future for all. If you're passionate about making a real, tangible difference, it's time to reimagine your career with us. Join Suffolk County Council and turn your passion for positive change into action.

Your role and responsibilities

As Planning Strategy Manager, you will:

• Work with a wide range of professionals (internal and external) delivering sustainable development, creatively resolving problems, leading the review of the Minerals and Waste Plan, and shaping the careers of colleagues to become professionally qualified.
• Manage a small but dedicated team working on programming and implementing the review of the Suffolk Minerals and Waste Plan, engaging with Suffolk’s Districts and Borough Council and the Broads Authority with their new local plans, neighbourhood plans, strategic sites, and making positive improvements throughout the planning process for wider services such as adult care, transport, and education.
• Provide strategic planning input within and outside the authority, including engaging with politicians, the public, and attending examinations in public and inquiries.

As our ideal candidate, you will have:

• Navigated complex and potentially contentious planning proposals through analysis of evidence.
• Prepared comprehensive reports for committees, public examinations, and inquiries.
• Supported the professional development and/or casework of junior colleagues.
• Sufficient experience to be, or already is, a Chartered Town Planner.
• Up-to-date knowledge of current planning policy and case law.
• Strong collaborative skills to develop innovative solutions with diverse stakeholders.

The team

You will be part of a small but busy team of planners and other professionals that determine the planning applications submitted to the County Council, monitor and form Minerals and Waste Planning Policy, secure developer contributions including s106 and CIL, engage with Local and Neighbourhood Plans, and provide professional input throughout the different stages involved with Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects. While home working is possible, a lot of in-person interaction is necessary and the authority expects staff to spend three days a week working at one of its offices, on site, or attending other engagements.

Empowering Everyone

We’re big believers in potential, possibility, and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect, and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.

For more information

Please contact James Cutting (He/Him) for a casual conversation by calling 01473 264803 or emailing james.cutting@suffolk.gov.uk

How to apply

To apply and for further details, please click on the 'apply button'

Closing date: 11.30 pm, 6 April 2025.

We offer a fantastic, inclusive working environment including diverse and active staff networks, great flexible working options, and many benefits, as well as the opportunity to improve the lives of Suffolk residents.

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. We are also committed to flexible working.

Suffolk County Council - welcoming diversity.