Northumberland National Park is a place of exceptional natural beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant communities. We are looking for an inspiring and highly skilled Head of Planning to lead our planning service and help us protect, enhance, and promote this unique National Park for current and future generations.

As guardians of this remarkable National Park, our mission is to protect and enhance its special qualities while supporting vibrant, resilient communities and sustainable development. We believe in planning as a force for good – balancing conservation with innovation, and enabling a future where nature, culture, and people thrive together.

As the statutory local planning authority for the National Park, we play a pivotal role in balancing sustainable development with conservation. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced planning professional to influence the future of this remarkable landscape while delivering an exceptional planning service.

If you are an experienced planning professional with the passion, vision, and leadership skills to make a difference, we want to hear from you.

• Based at Hexham with some home working
• Permanent
• Full time

As Head of Planning, you will:

• Lead the Development Management, Enforcement, and Forward Planning functions for the Authority.
• Oversee the delivery of the Local Plan and related strategic planning work.
• Ensure high-quality, efficient planning services that meet statutory obligations and performance standards.
• Represent the Authority at local, regional, and national levels, including planning inquiries, hearings, and partnership forums.
• Provide strong leadership to a small, dedicated team, fostering a culture of professionalism, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Contribute to corporate strategy, including the National Park Management Plan, and champion sustainable development.

About You

You will bring:

• A degree in Town and Country Planning (or equivalent) and RTPI membership (or eligibility).
• In-depth knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and practice.
• Significant experience in development management ideally within a rural or protected landscape context.
• Demonstrable understanding of forward planning within a local authority.
• Strong leadership and management skills with a track record of motivating teams and delivering results.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• A background in minerals and waste planning, or experience in National Parks, would be an advantage.

Why Join Us?

• Make a tangible difference in shaping the future of a protected landscape.
• Join a forward-thinking, values-driven organisation committed to sustainability and community empowerment.
• Enjoy flexible working, professional development opportunities, award-winning wellbeing initiatives and a supportive team culture.
• Work in one of the most beautiful and tranquil parts of the UK.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about planning and want to play a leading role in protecting and enhancing Northumberland National Park, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please see the job pack available on our website and complete the application form here: