Planning Manager Environment (R)
About the Role
This is a pivotal and strategic role at the heart of the Council and within Planning Services which plays a crucial part in guiding development within the Borough. You will be responsible for providing an excellent policy planning and heritage service, motivating two different teams and managing a fast-paced workload with professionalism, discretion and confidence. You will ensure that services are delivered effectively, efficiently, and in line with organisational standards and statutory requirements.
You will report to the Chief Planning Officer and will work closely with colleagues, partners, and service users to support the delivery of key service priorities. You will also support collaborative working across teams and partners to ensure a consistent, joined‑up approach to meeting local needs. This role requires someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is able to balance competing priorities.
The key responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the preparation of the Sefton Local Plan
- Ensuring all relevant legislation and policy guidance are applied in the conservation and preservation of the Borough’s built and natural heritage
- Fostering a culture of innovation and problem solving to deliver excellent services to a wide range of customers/partners and stakeholders
- Leading, managing and motivating teams to achieve high levels of performance through periods of change.
This role suits someone who is passionate about providing an excellent service, can inspire staff to perform well in a challenging environment, and is committed to working with others to achieve quality development across the borough.
Please see Appendix A (page 10) for a full copy of the Job Description and Person Specification.
Provisional interview date: Thursday 14th May 2026
Equal Opportunities
Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential. We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion.
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.
GUARANTEED INTERVIEW SCHEME
Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview.
If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.
If you’re an unemployed Sefton resident, register with our Sefton@Work service for free support to help you into employment. You may be eligible for extra assistance such as funding for travel, work clothing, or vouchers to make starting your new job easier. Call Sefton@Work on 0151 934 2610 or visit seftonatwork.net to find out more and get started today!
How to apply
Please apply online via the link provided.
Please fully complete the online expression of interest.
