Head of Land and Planning

Job DescriptionCompany DescriptionAdvance Northumberland is a dynamic property investment and development business dedicated to improving prosperity, tackling inequalities, and driving economic growth in support of Northumberland County Council. Wholly owned by Northumberland County Council and guided by a board comprising public and private sector members, it serves as the primary regeneration delivery vehicle for the Council. Using a diverse array of investment, development, and regeneration strategies, the company shapes places and promotes economic growth and prosperity throughout Northumberland.Job title: Head of LandReports to: Director of ProjectsTeam members: 1 x Planner, 1 x Development SurveyorLocation: Wansbeck Workspace and other locations as part of role.Role Purpose: To lead on the delivery of Advance Northumberlands land acquisition and disposal strategy for the delivery of residential development for Ascent Homes.To support the Director to bring Leadership of all Land aspects for Advance Northumberland (Developments) Ltd To support in the implementation of the Business Plan for current projects and expected the growth strategy (including but not limited to Sales Schemes, 100% affordable schemes, Extra Cares and Joint Ventures)Deliver the Strategic visions of the business taking the ultimate accountability of the Land functionManage all aspects of the function ensuring that controls are in place and followed to maximise company profitability. To build strategic partnerships with internal and external customers, including representatives from NCC, Advance Northumberland Board, professional bodies, contractors and the community to ensure strategies are joined up and aligned with wider plans.Duties and Responsibilities:Leadership of the land team, including growing team to accommodate planned growth across all divisions.Support the Ascent Homes Director to identify and secure opportunities for new acquisitions, utilising a wide range of land, property and assets and in accordance with Advance Northumberlands regeneration plans and aspirations.Adhere to, and develop, a robust Gateway process established for the sign-off of key projects.Apply critical diligence at the point of acquisition and maintain appropriate records in accordance with financial implications, efficient management, cost control and income generation to maximise profit.Support the production of business cases from a planning, risk management, resource and cost perspective.Contribute to budget management for strategic delivery and monitor performance against target, whilst taking action to achieve outcomes on time and within budget.Development of effective relationships with stakeholders, including Agents, the HCA and consultants.Establish and maintain an active network of private sector property professionals that provide expertise in various disciplines including investment, valuation, building surveying, planning, public sector asset management etc.Deliver an innovative and resourceful approach to identify sources of information and respond to customer demand, whilst challenging perceptions and leading change.Represent Advance Northumberland at meetings with external agencies and prepare reports and documentation for such meetings as required.Remain up to date with, and adhere to, relevant legislation and apply best practice principles associated with the strategic property agenda.Work collaboratively with Senior Management TeamGeneric Requirements for all colleagues Contribute to the creation of a positive culture in line with Advance Northumberland valuesShow commitment to equality and diversity in the workplace and ensure this is reflected in all activitiesEnsure a safe and sustainable working environment is promoted across the businessContribute to the financial performance of the business, in line with role responsibilities Undertake other reasonable duties as requestedPersonal SpecificationEssential CriteriaYou must have:Proven Housebuilder experience at a senior land positionDemonstratable experience in developing and leading a land teamIn-depth experience of Land purchase and planning, and associated procedure and practices. Degree in Surveying. RICS AccreditationPeople management experience Full UK Driving licenceIt would be good but not essential if you also have:Experience of using Coins Software

Created: 2025-07-03