Development Manager - Planning Services
From April 2027, Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, following the government’s confirmed plans for local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities, East Surrey and West Surrey, with West Surrey taking responsibility for the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking.
As we move towards this transition, our focus remains firmly on delivering high‑quality, value‑for‑money services and staying true to our shared organisational values of Collaboration, Wellbeing, Trusted, Value for Money and Professionalism.
We recognise that any period of organisational change can bring questions, particularly regarding future structures and working arrangements. Throughout this process, we are committed to supporting our colleagues with transparency and care prioritising wellbeing, maintaining a trusted and open dialogue, and ensuring continued access to learning and professional development opportunities.
While the exact shape of the new West Surrey Council beyond 2027 is still being developed, joining us now means becoming part of an organisation where collaboration thrives and where your contribution will directly influence one of the most significant local government transformations in decades. You’ll gain valuable experience, play an active role in shaping the future of public services across West Surrey, and work within a team committed to professionalism and delivering outstanding outcomes for our communities.
Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to deliver exceptional services for residents both now and into the future.
To apply for this vacancy, click the “Apply Online” link.
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About us
At Waverley Borough Council, we take pride in shaping vibrant, sustainable communities and delivering high-quality services for our residents. Our values guide everything we do:
- Openness – We value honesty, transparency and clear, constructive communication.
- Excellence – We strive for the highest standards, celebrating success and professionalism in all we do.
- Fairness – We act with integrity and respect, ensuring equal access to opportunities for everyone.
- Teamwork – We collaborate, support one another, and work towards shared goals.
- Taking Ownership – We are proactive, accountable and committed to achieving positive outcomes.
If these values resonate with you, we’d love to hear from you.
The Role
We’re seeking an experienced and motivated Development Management Manager to lead the operational management of our Development Management function.
Reporting to the Head of Planning Services, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality development outcomes that align with the Council’s policy objectives and vision for Waverley’s future growth.
Please note this role is politically restricted.
Key Responsibilities
As Development Management Manager, you will:
- Oversee the day-to-day delivery of the Development Management service, including:
- Pre-application and information services
- Processing of planning and related applications
- Management of planning appeals and enforcement actions
- Supporting and advising the Council’s Planning Committees
- Lead and develop a team across multiple planning functions, ensuring high standards of performance and professional development.
- Monitor and manage workloads, targets and service performance to deliver consistent and efficient outcomes.
- Provide expert professional advice to senior officers, elected members, applicants and the public.
- Keep up to date with national and local planning policy changes and community needs to ensure our planning service remains responsive and forward-looking.
- Contribute to service improvement and innovation, including business continuity planning.
- Deputise for the Head of Planning Services as required.
About You
You will bring:
- Proven experience in development management or a senior planning role within local government or a similar setting.
- Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and support a multidisciplinary team.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with confidence in providing advice to councillors, developers and the community.
- Up-to-date knowledge of planning legislation, policies and procedures.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving, service improvement and customer care.
- A relevant planning qualification and membership of the RTPI (or eligibility for membership).
Why Waverley?
At Waverley Borough Council, you’ll be part of a friendly, collaborative and forward-thinking organisation that values innovation and professional growth. We offer:
- A supportive and flexible working environment, including hybrid working options.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development (CPD).
- A strong commitment to equality, diversity, health and wellbeing.
- Excellent local government pension and benefits.
From April 2027, Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, as part of a major local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities: East Surrey and West Surrey. West Surrey will cover the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking.
As we move toward this transition, we remain focused on delivering high‑quality, value‑for‑money services and staying true to our shared values: Collaboration, Wellbeing, Trusted, Value for Money and Professionalism.
Joining us at this point in our journey offers a unique opportunity. You will gain valuable experience, benefit from extensive training and development, and play an active role in one of the most significant local government transformations in the past 50 years. You’ll be part of a collaborative, supportive organisation where your ideas and contributions will directly help shape the future of public services across West Surrey.
Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to provide excellent services for residents now and into the future.
If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, make an impact and be part of meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you.
Salary range
- £56,789 - £59,665 per year