Head of Planning, Economic Development and Climate Change

Salary: up to £91,233 depending on experience

Shape Hertsmere’s Future: Lead, Innovate, Inspire.

Hertsmere Borough Council has ambitions to implement a sustainable growth agenda. With thriving communities, passionate residents, and a shared commitment to preserving our rural landscapes, we’re shaping a sustainable future.

This is a pivotal moment to join us. With Elstree Studios and Sky Studios bolstering our local economy, we’re embracing innovation to support our communities and deliver high-quality housing. We’re seeking a visionary Head of Planning, Economic Development, and Climate Change to drive progress, inspire change, and make a lasting impact.

We are proud of our effective and successful planning and regulatory service, and we are looking for a leader who can help make our already good service, great. At the top of the agenda within our Planning service is bringing forward our Local Plan, which is currently in draft form. You’ll have the opportunity to work with our vibrant, passionate communities to make sure their wishes are reflected. You’ll also hold responsibility for advising the Council on all development proposals within and adjoining the Borough.

We are excited to see you prepare and implement the Council’s strategy to mitigate climate change, giving you the opportunity to work across various service areas to formulate and manage council action projects. We are a Green Belt authority, and this is something we are incredibly proud of. You’ll be responsible for helping to protect our Green Belt, liaising with our residents and communities to meet our housing needs and protect the environment in which Hertsmere sits.

As our Head of Planning, Economic Development, and Climate Change, you will have the unique opportunity to act in an ambassadorial role for the Council, liaising with our private sector partners, Hertfordshire Futures, County Council and other Local authorities to maximise growth opportunities and inward investment into our area. You’ll also be making positive and proactive contributions to the development of cross county policies within Planning and Economic Development, including the exciting opportunity to work with the South West Hertfordshire Group and Hertfordshire County Council to deliver a new Joint Strategic Plan.

This is a critical appointment in a key service area. Therefore, we are looking for a Planning professional with an in-depth and up to date knowledge of Planning law and other legislation, regulations and standards which impact on economic development and local government service delivery. It is important that this postholder understands the developments and challenges facing local government and the wider public sector. You should be able to evidence your partnership working experience and stakeholder engagement skills, which a commitment to ensuring best practice within corporate governance and service delivery. We are also interested in hearing about your experience of Planning at a senior level, performance management, and leading a diverse workforce, managing complex budgets and other resources.