Head of Strategic Planning - Cumbria Combined Authority

Head of Strategic Planning - Cumbria Combined Authority

Job description

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Head of Strategic Planning – Cumbria Combined Authority

Salary: £68 047 – £71 045

Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)
Contract Type: Permanent

Shape the Future of Cumbria

Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter.

The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria.

As we establish the organisation, we are seeking a Head of Strategic Planning to join us on our journey.

About this opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Cumbria at a pivotal time in the region's devolution journey. As Head of Strategic Planning, you will lead the development of Cumbria's first Spatial Development Strategy, providing strategic leadership on place, growth, housing, infrastructure and investment across the county.

Working at the heart of the Cumbria Combined Authority, you will play a leading role in bringing together local authorities, government agencies, infrastructure providers and investment partners to develop a shared vision for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity. You will help ensure that housing, transport, regeneration, economic development and infrastructure planning are aligned to support thriving communities and a strong economy.

This is an opportunity to establish a new strategic function, influence major investment decisions, and shape how Cumbria grows over the coming decades. If you are motivated by collaboration, place-making and delivering meaningful change at scale, this role offers a platform to make a lasting impact.

Who we are looking for…

We are seeking a strategic and collaborative leader with a strong understanding of spatial planning, growth and place-based policy. You will bring experience of developing and delivering complex strategies, building productive partnerships and influencing decision-making across organisational boundaries.

You will be comfortable working in a complex political and stakeholder environment, able to balance competing priorities and translate evidence into clear strategic direction. Strong communication, analytical and relationship-building skills are essential, as is the ability to bring organisations together behind a shared vision.

Whether your background is in strategic planning, regeneration, economic development, infrastructure strategy or a related field, you will have a track record of delivering outcomes through partnership and collaboration. Most importantly, you will share our ambition to create a prosperous, well-connected and sustainable future for Cumbria and its communities.

Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?

• Be part of a brand-new organisation with real devolved powers
• Work with passionate partners across public, private and community sectors
• Make a tangible difference to places, people and opportunities across Cumbria
• Leave a lasting legacy by preparing the Authority for long-term success

If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love to hear from you.

Join us at the start of Cumbria’s journey – and help turn ambition into reality.

Would you like to find out more?

For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the Role Profile.

If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Thomas Andrew on thomas.andrew@cumbria-ca.gov.uk

Location

This role may be suitable for hybrid working, which means an employee works part of their time in the office and part from home. This is a voluntary and non‑contractual arrangement between you and your manager, and your contractual place of work will remain your office location.

If a hybrid working arrangement is suitable for both the role and for you, you will normally be required to spend a minimum of 40% of your working hours in the office. Our main office is at Redhills, near Penrith. We are also able to use offices of our partner authorities across the county to help fulfil this expectation.

Please discuss any caring responsibilities, disabilities, or other circumstances that may affect your ability to meet this minimum office attendance requirement with the recruiting manager.

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 18 October 2026

Final interview date: 02 + 03 November 2026

Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.