Overview

Councils strategic objectives are delivered with the department recognised as key to delivery. You will provide the lead role for strategic partnerships and embedding of Place policy as appropriate working with Directors and Assistant Directors both internally and externally and provide a leading role in supporting the Director in preparing for LGR and the potential transition to a shadow strategic authority or unitary. A role at this level will encourage learning, development and encourage retention through reviewing learning offers, professional status and by leading a modern and effective continuous improvement culture. The Head of Place Policy and Strategy will work with other Council departments as required on specific project, initiatives and strategies leading multi-disciplinary teams as required.

Shortlisting Criteria: In order to be considered for shortlisting, your application will clearly evidence the following skills and align with our,

Shortlisting Criteria

Please tell us about your experience of Place Policy and Strategy with examples.

Describe a time when you used your stakeholder management and negotiation skills to overcome a problem.

Please tell us about a time you constructively challenged existing practice to bring about effective change.

Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description and Our to get an insight into working at Surrey.

ContactPlease contact us for any questions relating to the role. This could be to discuss flexible working requests, transferable skills, or any barriers to employment. For an informal discussion please contact Carolyn McKenzie, Director of Environment and Planning by email or on MS Teams.

Local Government ReorganisationSurrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two-tier system to new unitary councils in April 2027. Your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of these new councils, supporting local devolution and greater powers for our communities. Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents!

Please see more information here: Our Commitment

Our CommitmentWe are a disability confident employer which means if you have shared a disability on your application form and have evidenced you meet the minimum criteria, we guarantee you an interview. Your skills and experience truly matter to us. From application to your first day, we\''re committed to supporting you with any adjustments you need, we value inclusion and warmly welcome you to join and help build a workplace where everyone belongs.

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Reviewed: 24 Sep 2025

Qualified to degree level in an appropriate discipline or equivalent level professional qualification plus relevant experience.

Authoritative knowledge of the legislation, regulations, and technical requirements relevant to the role

Strong leadership skills with experience managing large, flexible teams and contracts in a matrix-management environment.

Experience managing complex financial budgets and resource allocation.

Proven ability to work collaboratively with internal and external partners/professionals.

About the TeamThe wider Environment and Planning Service is responsible for leading on the development and coordination of Place Policy and Strategy ranging from climate change, nature recovery to digital, transport connectivity and growth, as well as commissioning place-based infrastructure projects and investments and driving the future vision for Surrey as a thriving place for residents, communities and businesses. Reporting to the Director for Environment and Planning, the postholder will be part of the EandP management team and need to be both a skilled subject matter expert and a collaborator.

About the RoleIn this role you will be expected to play a key part in the overall management and delivery of the Environment and Planning Division, supporting the Director in delivering the services and ensuring the smooth transition through LGR. They will champion Place Policy and Strategy across the County Council and with partners and stakeholders to ensure that the role requires political astuteness, a passion for great placemaking, collaborative working across a range of disciplines and a real desire to work with communities and stakeholders to secure multiple benefits for the economy, environment and people. Recognising the complex and interconnected nature of Place in a contemporary setting the role will foster new ways of working including digital and data driven approaches alongside hybrid and agile working practices. The team is based at Victoria Gate with flexibility for remote working and expected regular travel across Surrey for meetings.

Our Offer to You

26 days\'' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years\'' service and 31 days after 5 years\'' service

Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave

A generous local government salary related pension

Up to 5 days of carer\''s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year

Paternity, adoption and dependents leave

An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing

Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources

Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping

A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents.

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