Assistant Town Manager for Development (PDF

Overview

Assistant Town Manager for Development, Department of Land Use, Housing & Development – Town of Lexington. Salary: $138,295 - $156,307 (Anticipated) plus up to $199,033 full range. Excellent benefits package. This is a full-time, ongoing position open until filled with priority given to applications received by August 11, 2026.

As a member of the Senior Management Team, the role develops long- and short-term policies and programs to coordinate the Town s land use, planning, and permitting. Administers and enforces town and state bylaws and regulations related to land use, natural resources, and planning. Collaborates with the Town Manager and acts as liaison to Town Counsel on land use and litigation issues.

Performs other related work as required.

• Develops long- and short-term policies and programs to coordinate the Town s land use, planning, and permitting. Administers and enforces town and state bylaws and regulations related to land use, natural resources, and planning.
• Collaborates with the Town Manager and acts as liaison to Town Counsel on issues of land use and litigation with boards or committees. Assists Town Counsel in preparation of litigation materials; may participate in settlement negotiations with land development litigation.
• Formulates and implements strategies to advance housing and zoning initiatives for boards and committees.
• Oversees Affordable Housing initiatives, including the Affordable Housing Trust, buy-downs, tenant-based rental assistance, and housing-related grants. Acts as chief housing staff.
• Oversees and leads major policy initiatives; analyzes problems, identifies alternatives, projects consequences, and recommends actions.
• Provides oversight of Economic Development initiatives and compliance with Community Preservation Act funds for properties.
• Manages procurement and project management tasks (RFPs, contracts, grants) and collaborates with consultants to ensure quality service.
• Leads and assists Division Managers, staff, and the public in planning, land development and permitting, land use, economic development, zoning, environmental and wetlands protection, open space conservation, historic preservation, and housing initiatives.
• Mentors staff and supports regional collaboration (e.g., Regional Housing Services Office).
• Prepares, presents, and monitors the department s annual budget and manages grant applications.
• Acts as staff liaison to relevant committees and boards and coordinates with interdepartmental teams; may lead Permit Roundup and related initiatives.
• Recommends changes in fee structures for publications and departmental services.
• Performs other similar or related duties as required or as situation dictates.

Supervision Scope:
Performs varied and responsible complex functions requiring specialized and in-depth technical knowledge of departmental operations, with judgment and initiative in open-ended situations.

Supervision Received:
Works independently, following department rules, regulations and policies; plans and completes tasks within deadlines.

Supervision Given:
Supervises Conservation Director, Building Commissioner, Planning Director, Economic Development Director, Office Manager, and Administrative Assistant.

Master s Degree or equivalent plus executive-level management experience in a multi-division department with accountability for fiscal and personnel management and municipal land and development-related functions (planning and zoning, land use law, policy analysis, real estate development, housing and permitting, economic development practices, historic preservation, natural resource conservation, transportation and site planning, strategic planning and negotiating contracts). 7-10 years of experience in organizational executive management, city/town planning, environmental policy and development or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Computer literacy required.

American Institute of Certified Planners is required; ICMA Credentialed Manager is preferred. Valid Massachusetts Driver s License is required.

Knowledge of organizational management, real estate development and financing; land use, zoning, housing, environmental policy and regulations; urban and town planning; conservation, natural resources, historic regulations, building and zoning codes, environmental protection regulations; public engagement and public relations; property tax assessment and budgeting; interpreting Federal, State and local policies and regulations; functioning of municipalities and governing bodies; best practices for supervision and staff development.

Ability to foster coordination among Town and departments; communicate effectively with customers; maintain detailed records; exercise diplomacy and problem-solving; work independently; set and follow detailed timelines; multi-task; maintain…