We are looking for someone who is :
Proven organisational leader Experienced in leading complex, large-scale operations and translating strategic ambition into measurable outcomes that improve public services.
Performance and delivery expert Brings a track record of driving performance, tackling systemic challenges and leading improvement in demanding, high-profile environments.
Influential systems thinker Builds trusted relationships, aligns diverse stakeholders around shared goals and successfully delivers through complexity and ambiguity.
Strategic and resilient decision-maker Uses insight, judgement and evidence to navigate risk, seize opportunities and maintain delivery through change and uncertainty.
That person should lead by:
Leading through others Empower talented people, build capability and create the conditions for high-performing teams to thrive.
Relentlessly improving Curious, collaborative and outcomes-focused, always seeking better ways to deliver for citizens, customers and stakeholders.
Things to know:
No two weeks are the same. One day, you'll be leading organisational performance and risk as a member of the Executive Team, shaping strategy and ensuring the Planning Inspectorate delivers high-quality services at scale. The next, you'll be working with government and senior stakeholders to influence policy, drive system-wide improvement and support the delivery of national priorities.
You'll lead through senior teams to improve performance, strengthen organisational resilience, tackle complex delivery challenges and build the capability needed for future success. You'll also represent the Inspectorate across government and the wider planning system, building partnerships that enable better outcomes.
Alongside strategic leadership, you'll develop future leaders, shape organisational culture and help define the long-term direction of both the Planning Inspectorate and the planning system itself.
This is a rare opportunity to combine operational leadership, public service impact and system influence in a role that helps shape communities, infrastructure and the future of England.
If youd like to find out more or have any questions, please join the drop‑in session schedule 10:00-10.45am Wednesday 2nd September 2026 (link in the pack and below).
For full information on the role and assessment process please refer to the candidate pack attached.
Salary
This is an SCS 1 role and new entrants to the Civil Service can expect to be paid a salary of £94,694. Internal rules apply to existing Civil Servants.
New appointments to the Senior Civil Service will be appointed on the terms and conditions set out in the Civil Service Management Code.
Working hours:
Standard working week is 37 hours, with our flexible working hours policy available for job share, compressed working hours and part time hours at a minimum of 30 hours per week. Occasionally, work outside these hours may be needed for business continuity, health and safety, or stakeholder engagement.
Office attendance
This role is contractually based at our office in Bristol, 10-minute walk from Temple Meads train station. Excitingly, we're relocating to a brand new office in December, while maintaining excellent transport links with Bristol Temple Meads station still just a 10 minute walk away. We recognise and value the mutual benefits of hybrid working and have a flexible approach to in person attendance. To provide for senior leadership and collaboration with colleagues, you can expect to be in the office at least twice a week. Travel to other parts of the country to meet colleagues and stakeholders will also be necessary. Please consider this before applying.
