About this opportunity

Cumberland Council is looking to appoint a dynamic Development Management Service Manager to lead planning operations across the Carlisle region of Cumberland. This important role supports the Thriving Place service, which is committed to transforming the health, well-being, and prosperity of our communities through sustainable development and vibrant, accessible places. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team committed to delivering high-quality services.

Cumberland is home to some of the most striking geography and landscapes in England. It is home to the Roman city of Carlisle and a series of attractive market towns and villages. Unsurprisingly it has a number of varying spatial challenges, strengths and opportunities!

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and inspire the Carlisle area team of planning professionals.
• Oversee complex planning applications, enforcement activities and strategic projects.
• Collaborate with developers, councillors, and communities.
• Drive innovation, sustainability, and best practice.
• Represent the service at planning committees, corporate meetings and public forums.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

This role is available on a permanent basis.

Who we’re looking for

Individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities.

We’re also about potential and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career.

Be sure to take a look at the post specification (below) for the essential criteria for this role.

Contact

For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Iain Fairlamb by email at Iain.Fairlamb@Cumberland.gov.uk

Guaranteed Interviews

We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role.

• Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
• Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
• Armed forces veterans whose last long term substantive employer was the armed forces

If you meet one or more of the criteria above, and wish to be considered for this scheme, select 'yes' to the appropriate question during your application. Find out more.

Diversity, Inclusion & AdjustmentsWe’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Employer and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.

If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and we’ll try our best to accommodate your needs.

Easily apply by submitting your CV and answering a few short questions.

Application and Interview information

• Closing date: 6 October 2025
• Interview date: TBC

 If you’re interested in applying, you should apply before 12 noon on the advertised closing date. We cannot accept applications once the role has closed.

Please read the supporting information:

• Post Specification

Please also refer to our Careers site to find out more:

• Our Staff Benefits
• Candidate Support
• About Cumberland Council