Interim Sustainable Development Director

Job Description:

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.

Job Overview:

Location

Bedfordshire

Offered Salary:

Negotiable

Work Type

Contract or Temp

Recruiter Detail:

Full Name

Phil Sowter

Email

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Phone

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