Development Manager

About the role

Located on the east coast of Norfolk, Great Yarmouth Borough boasts over 15 miles of coastline, a thriving visitor economy, a growing offshore energy and port logistics sector, and the vibrant seaside towns of Great Yarmouth and Gorleston-on-Sea.

The Council is delivering a significant regeneration programme, including major investments at North Quay, South Denes, and the historic Winter Gardens. These projects build on successful regeneration schemes such as the restoration of the Venetian Waterways and the transformation of Great Yarmouth Market Place.

Our coastal location presents unique challenges and opportunities. Climate change, flood risk, regeneration needs, and economic growth all require a balanced and innovative approach to planning, creating a varied and rewarding workload.

The planning service will also soon benefit from a new back-office IT system, improving efficiency and providing further opportunities for service improvements.

About you

We're looking for an experienced and motivated planning professional to help deliver our ambitious vision for growth, regeneration, and sustainable development. This is a unique chance to influence major regeneration projects, guide planning policy, and support development in one of Norfolk's most distinctive coastal communities.

You will be an experienced planning professional with at least ten years' experience in the planning sector with a detailed understanding of planning legislation, application of local planning policies and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

You will thrive in a leadership role, confidently building relationships, inspiring colleagues, and working collaboratively with a wide range of partners and stakeholders. As an excellent communicator, you will be able to present complex planning issues clearly and persuasively, whether speaking with elected members, residents, developers, or colleagues.

We are looking for someone who enjoys challenge, who can manage and balance competing priorities, and who is comfortable making sound decisions in a fast-paced environment. Above all, you will be proactive, resilient, and adaptable, with a genuine passion for planning and public service. If you are committed to leading a dynamic team, delivering high quality development, and helping communities to flourish, we would love to hear from you.

Pay and benefits

• Salary at band 10: £54,143 to £58,339 per annum.
• Potential market supplement of up to £10,000 per annum, reviewed annually. Eligibility depends on candidates demonstrating the appropriate level of managerial experience within a comparable role and the ability to undertake the responsibilities of the post at that level.
• A further £10,000 incentive payment is available to the successful candidate, subject to the Council's terms and conditions.
• Generous annual leave
• Flexible working
• Paid RTPI membership
• Access to an excellent pension scheme

About the employer

Great Yarmouth Borough Council has the goal to achieve excellence for the Borough. We don’t just say we are ambitious; we mean it. We are always looking at the ways in which we can improve and be the best that we can, providing the best for the people who live, work, visit and operate businesses in the Borough.

We have big plans for the future and massive opportunities ahead. We are one of the most successful enterprise zones in the country, Great Yarmouth is England’s offshore energy hub and Norfolk’s biggest seaside resort at the edge of the Broads National Park. The challenges we face in the borough are wide, but our commitment to achieving more has never been so focused.

We know that our team members are our most valuable asset, working hard to achieve our short and long term goals. If you are as ambitious as we are, apply now and be part of our team.

How to apply

Closing date: Wednesday 25th November 2026. Interview date: to be confirmed.

For an informal discussion or any further queries please contact Nick Fountain on 01493 846626 or email nick.fountain@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.

Further information

The Council is committed to a policy of equal opportunity in employment and the services it provides. More information is available on the Jobs page of the Great Yarmouth Borough website, including how to apply and the application process, details of DBS checks (if relevant for the job role), Right to Work checks, the Council's values and behaviours, agile working and its Privacy Notice.