Head of Strategic Planning Combined Authority

The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.

Job reference REQ Date posted 25/09/2026 Final date to receive applications 18/10/2026 Location PENRITH Salary 68,047. Package Blank Contractual hours 37 Basis Full time Attachments Blank

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Head of Strategic Planning – Cumbria Combined Authority

Location:

Penrith (including agile working and working from home)
Contract Type:
Permanent

Shape the Future of Cumbria

Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter.

The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria.

As we establish the organisation, we are seeking a Head of Strategic Planning to join us on our journey.

About this opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Cumbria at a pivotal time in the region's devolution journey. As Head of Strategic Planning, you will lead the development of Cumbria's first Spatial Development Strategy, providing strategic leadership on place, growth, housing, infrastructure and investment across the county.

Working at the heart of the Cumbria Combined Authority, you will play a leading role in bringing together local authorities, government agencies, infrastructure providers and investment partners to develop a shared vision for sustainable growth and long‑term prosperity. You will help ensure that housing, transport, regeneration, economic development and infrastructure planning are aligned to support thriving communities and a strong economy.

This is an opportunity to establish a new strategic function, influence major investment decisions, and shape how Cumbria grows over the coming decades. If you are motivated by collaboration, place‑making and delivering meaningful change at scale, this role offers a platform to make a lasting impact.

Who we are looking for…

We are seeking a strategic and collaborative leader with a strong understanding of spatial planning, growth and place‑based policy. You will bring experience of developing and delivering complex strategies, building productive partnerships and influencing decision‑making across organisational boundaries.

You will be comfortable working in a complex political and stakeholder environment, able to balance competing priorities and translate evidence into clear strategic direction. Strong communication, analytical and relationship‑building skills are essential, as is the ability to bring organisations together behind a shared vision.

Whether your background is in strategic planning, regeneration, economic development, infrastructure strategy or a related field, you will have a track record of delivering outcomes through partnership and collaboration. Most importantly, you will share our ambition to create a prosperous, well‑connected and sustainable future for Cumbria and its communities.

Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?

• Be part of a brand-new organisation with real devolved powers
• Work with passionate partners across public, private and community sectors
• Make a tangible difference to places, people and opportunities across Cumbria
• Leave a lasting legacy by preparing the Authority for long‑term success

If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love…