Our client is currently looking to recruit an Interim Sustainable Development Director on an initial 6 month basis.
Interim Sustainable Development Director
Bedfordshire - Hybrid
Day rate is negotiable
Lead the transition to a net zero future. Shape a town's long-term vision.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an exceptional leader to step into a strategic Director-level role responsible for delivering sustainable growth, low-carbon transformation, and major infrastructure development for a thriving and ambitious town aiming to achieve net zero carbon by 2040.
The Role This senior position oversees a wide-reaching portfolio critical to inclusive economic growth and environmental leadership. Reporting to the Corporate Director for Inclusive Growth, you ll lead the Sustainable Development division and manage a high-performing team delivering across:
- Climate Change & Sustainability
- Development Management & Planning Strategy
- Strategic Flood Risk & Transport Planning
- Building Control & Safety Compliance
- Fleet & Highways Services
- Waste & Passenger Transport
You will also take the lead on some of the region s most significant development projects including airport growth, town centre regeneration, and transformational transport and infrastructure programmes.
Key Responsibilities - Deliver and evolve a strategic vision aligned with a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable future.
- Provide senior leadership across planning, infrastructure, climate and operational services.
- Drive the transition to net zero carbon, embedding sustainability across all operations and developments.
- Oversee the delivery of major infrastructure, transport and regeneration projects, including NSIPs.
- Manage large operational and capital budgets (approx. £16m revenue and £16m capital).
- Represent the organisation at regional and national level, securing investment and influencing policy.
- Act as a key strategic advisor to corporate leaders on environmental policy, planning, and delivery.
About You We're looking for an experienced strategic leader with the credibility, resilience and ambition to drive system-wide change and sustainable development.
You ll bring: - A strong track record of senior management across planning, environmental, infrastructure or place-based disciplines.
- Demonstrable experience leading large teams and managing high-value operational budgets.
- Professional qualifications in planning, transport, environment or a related field.
- Strong understanding of national and local policy frameworks, including planning reform and net zero strategy.
- A forward-thinking, partnership-led approach to working with government, agencies, businesses and communities.
- Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder management skills.
What s on Offer - A rare opportunity to shape a major town s future and lead on nationally significant projects.
- A platform to drive innovation in sustainability, regeneration, transport and place-shaping.
- A collaborative, agile working environment with flexible hybrid arrangements.
- The chance to build a legacy that supports inclusive growth, environmental responsibility, and community wellbeing.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join an established organisation on an initial 6 month basis with potential for contract extensions.