Director of Sustainable Development

Overview

Are you ready to shape the future of one of the UK’s most ambitious towns?

Luton Council is seeking a visionary Director of Sustainable Development to steer a bold transformation and guide the delivery of our Luton 2040 vision, a healthy, fair, and sustainable town where everyone thrives.

This is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to shape and influence major projects that will define Luton for decades. From airport expansion and inward investment to town centre regeneration, housing growth, and green transport solutions, you’ll navigate the strategic direction that balances economic prosperity with environmental responsibility.

Your portfolio spans planning policy, development management, highways and transport, fleet transformation, bus service improvement and building control all underpinned by our commitment to net zero carbon by 2040. You will champion universal accessibility and sustainable infrastructure, ensuring our transport networks and public spaces work for everyone.

We are investing in Bus Service Improvement Plans, active travel routes, and innovative approaches to reduce car dependency. You will work with government, businesses, and communities to deliver integrated solutions that tackle climate change, improve air quality, and create a greener, more connected Luton.

• Lead strategic direction for sustainable development across planning policy, development management, highways and transport, fleet transformation, bus service improvement and building control.
• Drive the Luton 2040 vision to deliver a healthy, fair, and sustainable town with inclusive transport and public spaces.
• Collaborate across the Council and with partners to deliver shared goals through system working.
• Build a high-performing team culture that inspires colleagues to innovate and deliver at pace.
• Manage major projects related to airport capacity, regeneration, housing growth, and green transport solutions while balancing economic and environmental priorities.
• Champion universal accessibility and sustainable infrastructure in all programmes.
• Engage with government, businesses, and communities to implement integrated, climate-positive solutions.

• Strategic leader with vision, influence, and the drive to deliver complex programmes and inspire change.
• Proven ability to work across organisations and partner networks to achieve shared outcomes.
• Experience in steering large-scale transformations and policy implementations in a public sector context.

For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact our retained consultants at Penna
:

• Ali Tasker on or email:
• Pete John on or email:

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.