Strategic Planning Manager

Why Us?

It's time to join West Lancs as we embark on delivering our new and ambitious Vision and Priorities. With a focus on environmental sustainability, generating economic prosperity, building inclusive & healthy communities and financial resilience, we are looking for exceptional candidates to help shape our future. You will be joining an organisation that puts its customers first, takes responsibility and works together with a can-do attitude, all while challenging the status quo to deliver exceptional outcomes for our communities.

Your Role!

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the Council's Strategic Planning Team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Borough.

As Strategic Planning Manager, you will take the lead on the preparation, delivery and implementation of the Council's Local Plan, ensuring effective project management and successful progression through consultation, examination and adoption. You will oversee the production of a range of planning policy documents, manage consultants and respond proactively to changes in national planning policy and legislation. You will be responsible for managing a team of Strategic Planning Officers and Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 Officers.

Working closely with elected members, stakeholders and local communities, you will lead on a collaborative approach to place-making, helping to deliver sustainable growth across the Borough. The role also involves leading community engagement and consultation activities contributing to wider Council corporate priorities including housing, infrastructure, transport, economic development and regeneration.

As a manager within the Planning Service, you will be responsible for managing staff and budgets, driving high performance and creating and maintaining a positive, customer-focused culture. The role offers the opportunity to influence strategic decision-making and shape long-term policy in the area.

To find out more about West Lancashire Borough Council, Please view the attached Role Profile below.

To Apply, please follow the link - https://westlancsjobs.co.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=HR-0130-26

About You!

We are looking for an experienced and knowledgeable planning professional who is passionate about Planning and delivering positive outcomes for communities.

You will be a qualified Town Planner, holding an RTPI-accredited degree (or equivalent), with substantial experience in planning, strategic planning or planning policy within either the public or private sector. A strong track record of preparing and delivering planning policy documents and a detailed understanding of the plan-making process is essential.

As a leader, you will be able to motivate and develop a team, effectively manage workloads and resources, and deliver high-quality outcomes to challenging timescales. You will be confident in building and maintaining productive relationships with elected members, senior managers, colleagues, partner organisations and local communities, and be able to communicate complex planning issues clearly and persuasively to a wide range of audiences.

We are looking for someone with a positive attitude who combines strategic thinking with a practical, delivery-focused approach. You will be highly organised, politically aware and capable of balancing competing priorities. You will also possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify innovative solutions, manage risk and respond positively to change.

What's in it for you?

We pride ourselves on our friendliness and being a good employer with a range of benefits and employment terms and conditions to suit you. A competitive salary and annual leave entitlement, flexible working, a generous employer pension contribution scheme, work life balance policies, and support for your personal development are just some of the benefits we offer.

If you are eager to be part of a transformative journey and make a tangible impact, West Lancashire Borough Council welcomes your application.

For an informal chat, please contact Tom McGowan on 01695 583423 or Tom.McGowan@westlancs.gov.uk

Interviews are due to take place on 1st and 2nd September 2026