Major Team Leader

Are you an experienced planning professional with a background in major applications and team leadership, looking for your next interim opportunity within a well-regarded local authority?

A highly respected council is seeking a Major Applications Team Leader to oversee a team of Principal Planners and support the delivery of a busy and complex development management function. This is an initial 6-month contract with a strong likelihood of extension.

You will be responsible for managing a team of 5 Principal Planners, focusing on reviewing work, signing off applications, and providing guidance and support. The role offers flexibility to remain hands-on with a small caseload if desired, while maintaining a strategic oversight of major applications.

The authority deals with a range of complex and high-profile developments, including large-scale schemes delivered through PPAs. Experience with greenfield and Green Belt sites is essential, with additional exposure to SANGs, SACs, and DCOs highly desirable. The role will also involve committee attendance and stakeholder engagement.

• Managing and supporting a team of Principal Planners
• Reviewing and signing off major planning applications
• Overseeing complex PPA schemes
• Advising on developments within Green Belt and sensitive areas
• Attending and presenting at planning committees
• Supporting the wider development management function

• Experience leading and managing a team of planners (e.g., Principal Planners)
• Proven track record in major applications and development management
• Experience with greenfield and Green Belt sites
• Exposure to SANGs, SACs, and DCOs (highly desirable)
• Ability to attend and present at planning committees and engage with stakeholders