Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames - Lead Officer, Planning Delivery

Drive Kingston’s Regeneration – Lead Strategic Planning Delivery

We’re looking for a dynamic planning professional to lead the delivery of Kingston’s most significant development projects. Acting as the link between developers and the Council, you’ll manage the planning process end-to-end for major schemes, ensuring high-quality outcomes that meet community needs and corporate ambitions.

Why Kingston?

With ambitious housing targets and major regeneration projects like Cambridge Road Estate (2,000 new homes) and other strategic sites, Kingston is one of London’s most exciting boroughs for growth. This is your opportunity to shape its future and make a lasting impact.

What you’ll do:

• Project manage the planning journey for high-profile, complex developments from pre-application to approval.
• Coordinate a multi-disciplinary “development team” approach, overseeing officers, consultants, and stakeholders.
• Negotiate infrastructure and community benefits through Section 106 and CIL agreements.
• Represent the Council at Planning Committees, public meetings, and act as expert witness at appeals.
• Commission specialist advice and manage procurement in line with regulations.
• Drive innovation, manage budgets, and deputise for the Head of Development Management.

What we’re looking for:

• Degree-level qualification in Town Planning (or related discipline) and RTPI chartered membership (or eligibility).
• Significant experience leading and advising on major planning applications.
• Strong project management and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence at senior level.
• Comprehensive knowledge of planning legislation and local government operations.
• A collaborative leader committed to Kingston’s values: Innovative, Open, Smart.

Join us and help deliver Kingston’s vision – creating sustainable growth, vibrant communities, and a forward-thinking planning service in one of London’s most dynamic boroughs.

For a confidential discussion contact: brian.gallagher@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.
6. 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.