The Position
Wake County (County), one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, is seeking its next Director of Planning and Development Services. The County welcomes approximately 25,000 new residents every year, and the moment calls for a leader who can shape the County’s growth with clarity, consistency, and vision. The Director of Planning and Development Services steps into a rare opportunity: to serve as the founding director of a newly established department, build its culture, and guide Wake County's approach to land use, permitting, and environmental stewardship at a pivotal point in its history. For the leader who thrives at the intersection of complex regulatory work, community engagement, and organizational development, this is an extremely compelling opportunity.
The Director leads a department of approximately 100 staff organized across four divisions: Administration, Planning, Building Permits and Inspections, and Watershed Management. The department serves as Wake County's primary authority for administering land development regulations, guided by the County's Unified Development Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan, Stormwater Regulations, and the North Carolina Building Code. Wake County does not exercise zoning authority over municipal jurisdictions, which shapes how the Director engages with the development community and neighboring governments: less as a traditional regulatory enforcer and more as a convener, a resource, and a partner in responsible growth.
The Director has four direct reports (division-level leaders) and is a member of the County's Senior Leadership Team, reporting directly to the County Manager. The Director shapes department strategy, develops and executes the annual business plan, oversees budget planning and fiscal accountability, and monitors state and federal legislation for regulatory impacts. The Director also represents the department in public forums, before the Board of County Commissioners, and in ongoing relationships with municipalities, regional transportation and environmental agencies, homebuilders, and other development stakeholders. Success in this role requires someone who can translate technical complexity into accessible language, who applies rules fairly and consistently across all customers, and who is equally comfortable defending a difficult decision before the development community as they are mentoring a new division manager.
The incoming leader inherits strong foundations: well-regarded regulatory workflows, high-quality staff with deep expertise, and established relationships with the homebuilding community and partner jurisdictions.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements: A bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, environmental science, civil engineering, architecture, or a closely related field, combined with at least eight years of progressively responsible experience in planning, land development, permitting, or a related regulatory function, is required. A minimum of four years in a senior leadership or management role overseeing professional staff is also required.
Preferred qualifications: A master's degree in planning, public administration, or a related discipline is preferred, as is American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification. Candidates with significant demonstrated leadership experience and a strong track record in complex land use or regulatory environments will be considered.
Prior experience in a county or regional government setting is a plus, particularly in jurisdictions that manage growth pressures, intergovernmental coordination, or environmental regulatory programs. Familiarity with North Carolina land development law, building codes, and stormwater regulations is beneficial but not required.
Compensation and Benefits
The expected hiring range is $158,953 to $222,533, depending on qualifications. Wake County offers a comprehensive total compensation package that reflects its commitment to recruiting and retaining exceptional public sector leaders. Learn more about our options and employee-based benefits here.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning July 9, 2026.