Head of Development Management

We have an excellent opportunity available for a Head of Development Management to join our team at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full time, permanent basis. 

As Head of Development, you will be accountable for delivering the Council’s Development Management, Planning Enforcement and Land Charges functions within Government timelines, budget and in accordance with the Council’s vision. 

The Development Management service deals with nearly all planning applications in the Borough outside of the Strategic Development Locations (SDLs) which are separately managed by the Strategic Development Team. Many of these applications are for ‘householder’ development however, a wide variety of planning applications are submitted in the Borough including change of use and conversion of buildings, changes to heritage buildings, the extension and development of new commercial, leisure and community uses and the provision of new homes. 

We are seeking an ambitious and experienced town planner, with a strong track record in development management to drive high quality, sustainable growth in our area, ensuring that development aligns with our strategic priorities and delivers the best solutions for our communities.  

Benefits: 

Not only is this an excellent opportunity, but it’s a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including: 

⭐ A generous annual leave entitlement of 31 days (rising to 36 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays 

⭐ An excellent local government pension scheme 

⭐ An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline 

⭐ A range of local & lifestyle discounts 

⭐ Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office) 

⭐ Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes 

⭐ And much more!  

Key responsibilities 

• Leading a high performing planning application team which is consistently within the top ten performing Councils in the country according to Government league tables. 

• Managing the budget. 

• Delivering a robust planning enforcement service. 

• Overseeing the land charges functions, which processes land charges and legal queries on property transactions within the borough.  

• Building strong relationships with internal departments, councillors and stakeholders to ensure a responsive and efficient service.  

 Candidate requirements 

• Experience of successfully resolving highly complex cases relating to the specialist area that require a significant element of judgement 

• Significant understanding of the political landscape, legislative frameworks, and regional and national drivers 

• Chartered town planner 

• Extensive technical planning knowledge 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an ability to vary style to meet the needs of the audience 

• Experience of leading a high performing team 

 Our Area: 

Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside. 

We’re home to a range of high performing schools including 69 primary and 21 secondary, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. We have a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life. 

For more information or to arrange a confidential call, please email Marcia Head, Head of Development Management, Place and Growth - marcia.head@wokingham.gov.uk

Closing date: Sunday 13th April 2025, 11pm

Interview date: TBC 

Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. 

If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer. 

Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. 

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks. 

 Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.