Head of Development Management

Overview

The London Borough of Harrow is seeking an accomplished and strategic leader to take on the role of Head of Development Management, a senior position within the Housing and Regeneration Directorate. Reporting to the Chief Planning Officer, the postholder will lead the Development Management Service, overseeing statutory planning, enforcement, technical support and systems functions. This role is central to ensuring the delivery of a high-performing, customer-focused planning service that supports the Borough’s ambitions for sustainable growth, regeneration and high-quality development.

The successful candidate will provide strong operational and strategic leadership, driving service improvement, performance and innovation across all areas of development management. They will oversee complex and high-value planning applications, working collaboratively with Members, partners and key stakeholders to secure investment and deliver exemplary development outcomes. With responsibility for budgets, income generation and commercial opportunities, the role requires a leader who can balance financial stewardship with service excellence, ensuring resources are effectively aligned with corporate priorities.

As a key member of the senior leadership team, the Head of Development Management will foster a high-performing and inclusive culture, developing and motivating staff to achieve outstanding results. The postholder will contribute to wider Directorate and Council objectives, champion partnership working across the public and private sectors, and deputise for the Chief Planning Officer as required. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of Harrow, delivering meaningful outcomes for residents and communities while driving forward a modern, efficient and resilient planning service.

About You

If the below looks like you, we are excited to hear from you.

• Strategic leader of Development Management services, driving high-quality planning, enforcement, and technical delivery across the borough.
• Proven ability to deliver statutory planning targets while improving appeal success rates and enforcement outcomes.
• Experienced in leading complex regeneration and major development schemes, securing investment and sustainable growth.
• Strong track record of service transformation, improving processes, systems, and operational performance.
• Skilled in budget management, income generation, and identifying commercial opportunities within planning services.
• Collaborative leader, building effective partnerships with Members, stakeholders, public/private sectors, and regional bodies.
• Expert in planning legislation, policy development, and governance, ensuring compliance and high professional standards.
• Committed to fostering high-performing, inclusive teams through coaching, development, and clear performance management.
• Influential communicator with strong negotiation skills, capable of managing complex stakeholder environments.
• Dedicated to delivering customer-focused, efficient services that align with corporate objectives and regeneration priorities

Related Documents

For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/Selection Criteria