Development Management Team Leader; Majors

Overview

Join Buckinghamshire Council as a Major Development Team Leader and lead a dynamic team of specialist staff to deliver expert advice on strategic growth, major applications and council statutory duties. In this role you will drive service improvements, digital transformation and cultural change, ensuring an efficient planning service that meets customer needs and enhances productivity.

• Lead a team of principal planning officers handling wide‑range major and complex planning applications.
• Oversee the delivery of effective regulatory services relating to major development proposals and other strategic planning applications, ensuring statutory requirements and best practices are met.
• Manage and develop the Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs) process, driving performance improvements and innovation.
• Provide strategic direction, performance management and expert advice to elected members and committees.
• Represent the team at Cabinet and Council meetings when necessary, briefing elected members and preparing reports.
• Drive cultural change initiatives and lead team mentoring, building a high‑performing planning team.
• Manage information, including personal and sensitive data, and handle Freedom of Information requests.

• Proven experience in development management, particularly in PPAs and handling major planning applications.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex planning applications, planning appeals (inquiries and hearings) and work collaboratively with members, portfolio holders and committees.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build, mentor and lead a team, influence stakeholders at all levels, and deliver high‑quality planning policies, strategies, reports and presentations.
• Track record of delivering major applications, operating within budgets and implementing innovative ideas to enhance service levels.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a customer‑focused mindset and a commitment to continuing professional development.
• Positive, results‑focused approach, with flexibility to adapt to changing requirements.

• Competitive salary and generous pension scheme.
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working style (2 days a week from three office locations).
• Health and well‑being initiatives, including an Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aiders and mindfulness workshops.
• Opportunities for career progression, mentorship and continuous professional development.
• Inclusive, supportive culture that values diversity, equality and inclusion.

Apply online at  or contact Charles Power, Major Development Manager, at charles.

Post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and requires applicants to declare unspent cautions and/or unspent convictions.