Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames - Head of Development Management

Lead Kingston’s Growth – Shape Our Future Places

We’re looking for an outstanding leader to head up our Development Management and Planning Enforcement services – driving positive growth and regeneration across Kingston. This is your chance to influence the borough’s future, ensuring development aligns with our Local Plan and delivers sustainable, high-quality outcomes for our communities.

Why Kingston?

From our historic riverside and vibrant market town to major regeneration schemes, Kingston is one of London’s most dynamic boroughs. You’ll play a pivotal role in flagship projects, guiding development that balances heritage with innovation.

What you’ll do:

• Set the strategic direction for Development Management and Enforcement, delivering a high-performing, customer-focused service.
• Lead on planning applications and negotiations, securing infrastructure and community benefits through Section 106 and CIL.
• Oversee Planning Committee activities and represent the service at senior level.
• Drive service improvement, innovation, and income generation through pre-application services and Planning Performance Agreements.
• Inspire and develop your team, embedding a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement.

What we’re looking for:

• Degree-level qualification in Town Planning (or related discipline) and RTPI chartered membership (or eligibility).
• Significant experience assessing and advising on complex planning applications.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing teams and driving performance.
• Comprehensive knowledge of planning legislation, local government operations, and political awareness.
• Ability to build strong partnerships and influence at senior levels.

Join us and help shape Kingston’s future – delivering sustainable growth, vibrant communities, and a forward-thinking planning service in one of London’s most exciting boroughs.

For a confidential discussion contact: andrew.barton@penna.com or 07716 098175

For further information visit: https://kingstonjobs.co.uk/

Closing date: 11:59pm, Sunday 22^nd February 2026

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

If you have a long term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com to inform the Penna team