Strategic Planning Manager

About the role

This is a fantastic opportunity to influence urban regeneration and coastal developments in the Borough of Great Yarmouth. Located on the east coast of Norfolk, the Borough benefits from over 15 miles of coastline, a strong visitor economy, a growing offshore energy and port logistics sector, and the distinctive seaside towns of Great Yarmouth and Gorleston-on-Sea.

The Council is delivering an ambitious regeneration programme, with major projects including regeneration at North Quay, South Denes, and the Winter Gardens. This builds upon the successful restoration of The Venetian Waterways and transformation of Great Yarmouth’s Market Place. The Borough’s unique landscape and constraints require a carefully balanced approach to growth, addressing climate change, flood risk, and deprivation.

The Council is preparing to adopt its new Local Plan setting out a clear vision to deliver 6,840 new homes by 2042 alongside employment opportunities and supporting infrastructure. Under the new plan-making system, the Council has recently published a notice to commence a new Local Plan. Much of this role will focus on the preparation and delivery of the plan to meet statutory requirements.

The role offers genuine scope to support development across the Borough. The Council receives a wide range of planning applications which requires regular planning policy input.

About you

Successful candidates will have:

• At least five years in the planning profession, with an excellent grasp of planning legislation, the NPPF and the preparation of Local Plans
• Qualified Town and Country Planning professional status, holding full chartered membership of the RTPI
• Confident and professional communication skills, with proven ability to lead, build positive working relationships and present complex information clearly to a wide range of audiences
• Comfort in making decisions, managing competing priorities and motivating others to deliver excellent results
• A proactive, resilient and adaptable approach, with a genuine passion for planning, public service and helping communities thrive

If you are passionate about place-shaping, leading a dynamic team, and delivering high quality public services, we would love to hear from you.

Pay and benefits

The salary for this role is graded at band 10, with a salary range of £54,143 to £58,339 per annum.

• Market supplement: potential for up to £10,000 per annum, reviewed annually. Eligibility is subject to 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.
• Incentive payment: a further £10,000 is available for the successful candidate, subject to the Council’s terms and conditions.
• Generous annual leave
• Flexible working arrangements
• Paid RTPI subscription
• Access to a good local 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. We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity in employment and the services we provide.

How to apply

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

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

Further information

More information is available on the Jobs page of the Great Yarmouth Borough Council website, including how to apply and the selection process. You will also find details regarding DBS checks (if relevant for the job role), Right to Work checks, the Council’s values and behaviours, agile working and its Privacy Notice.