Job description.

A fantastic opportunity has arisen with a leading Strategic Land company based in the north west of England.  We are looking for an experienced Development Manager or Project Manager to join their expanding team. 

Overall Purpose

Responsible for the for management of land development projects, to the point of planning consent. To manage planning & technical activities in relation to planning applications, to ensure appropriate planning consents are obtained cost effectively. To work closely with land & planning team members to ensure deliverable and viable planning consents are secured.

Key Activities – Project Management of Future Development Opportunities

• Prepare and manage planning applications and planning appeals for residential and mixed-use developments of varying scale across England, on time and to budget
• Responsible for own projects from the point a site is secured to the point of planning consent      
• Provide technical leadership and expertise to support land development projects
• Assist the land team members in securing new land opportunities for the Company by undertaking planning and technical appraisals of potential development sites, identify risks, and make recommendations on the prospects of achieving technical and planning solutions
• Review project plans, drawings, and specifications to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, technical standards, and best practices
• Responsible for the appointment of external professionals and consultants in relation to site appraisal, planning applications and project management of land development sites
• Collaborate with internal teams and external consultants to resolve planning and technical issues, and optimise project design and land value
• Coordinate and manage the activities of consultants, ensuring their deliverables meet quality, budget, and timeline expectations
• Conduct regular progress meetings with consultants, and internal teams, and provide guidance as needed

Key Activities – the Planning Process

• Work closely with the planning team to ensure land is promoted for development and planning consent is achieved as soon as reasonably practicable
• Deliver projects on time and to budget
• Understanding the importance of viability in the negotiation and delivery of development
• Good knowledge and understanding of the continually evolving planning system

Key Activities – Land Disposals

Assist the Land team, where required, for all land sales, with regards to planning and technical matters

Key Responsibilities – Technical Guidance and Management

• Collaborate with the project team to develop and manage the project budget
• Monitor expenditures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure adherence to budgetary constraints
• Optimise the allocation of resources, to support project requirements

• Stay up-to-date with relevant regulations, codes, and standards related to land development
• Identify potential planning and technical risks and challenges, associated with land development projects
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and develop strategies to mitigate risks throughout the project lifecycle

Key Responsibilities – Meetings/Reporting

• Preparation of Board Papers to update the Board and Management Team on planning and technical appraisals, reports and recommendations, and progress updates of own projects

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project documentation, including technical drawings, reports, schedules and correspondence
• Ensure proper archiving and organisation of project-related documentation

• Attend land/planning meetings and keep the land promotion team fully informed of issues and progress

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience with another Land Promoter, Developer or Housebuilder

• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant disciplines, including site engineering, infrastructure, design, planning and environmental considerations
• Strong understanding of planning policies, regulations, and industry standards related to land development
• Experience in managing and coordinating external consultants
• Proficiency in using relevant technical software and tools (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS software, project management software)
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to address complex technical challenges
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels
• Attention to detail, accuracy, and a commitment to maintaining high-quality project deliverables

Key Activities – Working Relationships

Effective working relationships are an essential part of working life. The focus in this role is both:-

Internal:              Colleagues within Group

External:              Local Authorities, public bodies, consultants, landowners, land agents and other developers