Development Management Manager Jobs

A Development Management Manager is a senior leadership role within UK local authorities. They oversee the entire development management service, ensuring efficient processing of planning applications, high‑quality decision‑making, strong performance management and effective customer service. DM Managers play a crucial role in delivering housing growth, regeneration, infrastructure and sustainable development.

The role typically involves managing multiple teams, leading service improvements, overseeing major applications, and working closely with councillors, senior officers and external partners.

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Main Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the development management service
• Oversee team leaders, principal planners and planning officers
• Ensure performance targets and statutory deadlines are met
• Lead major and strategic planning applications
• Provide expert advice to councillors and senior leadership
• Manage budgets, resources and service improvements
• Represent the authority at committees, hearings and public meetings

Typical Employers

• Local authorities
• Combined authorities
• GLA, OPDC, LLDC and public sector planning bodies
• Public sector regeneration organisations

Salary Range

Development Management Manager salaries typically range from £55,000 to £75,000, depending on location, experience and authority type. London and major urban authorities often offer higher salary bands.

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Progression Routes

• Head of Development Management
• Head of Planning / Planning Service Manager
• Chief Planner

Related Job Titles

• Team Leader / Lead Planner
• Principal Planning Officer
• Senior Planning Officer
• Planning Enforcement Manager

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https://www.planningjobs.com/