The Town of Londonderry, NH, is seeking a Director of Planning and Economic Development. This position reports directly to the Town Manager. The Director is responsible for the leadership, strategic direction, and day-to-day management of the Planning and Economic Development Department, including oversight of the Planning Division and Building Division.
The Director leads implementation of the Town’s land use policies, economic development initiatives, Master Plan, zoning ordinances, subdivision and site plan regulations, and development review processes in support of the Town’s strategic goals and long-term sustainability. The position serves as a principal advisor to the Town Manager, Town Council, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and other boards and committees regarding planning, development, economic development, growth management, zoning, permitting, and community development matters.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future growth and development of one of southern New Hampshire’s most dynamic communities.
WORK SCHEDULE AND FLSA STATUS:
• Assigned to a 40-hour workweek.
• This is an exempt position and is not eligible for overtime compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
(The following is illustrative of the duties and responsibilities associated with the position and is not intended to be all-inclusive.)
Department Leadership and Administration
• Plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates the operations and activities of the Planning and Economic Development Department.
• Supervises, mentors, develops, and evaluates department personnel.
• Prepares, administers, and monitors departmental operating and capital budgets.
• Develops departmental goals, policies, procedures, and performance standards.
• Administers consultant contracts and professional service agreements.
• Oversees records management and implementation of technology solutions related to planning, permitting, GIS, inspections, and development review.
Planning and Land Use Administration
• Oversees current and long-range planning activities, including implementation and updates to the Master Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, and Site Plan Regulations.
• Directs and oversees review of subdivision, site plan, zoning amendment, conditional use permit, and other development applications.
• Provides professional planning and zoning guidance to Town boards and committees.
• Coordinates development review activities among Town departments and outside agencies.
• Evaluates environmental, transportation, infrastructure, fiscal, and community impacts associated with proposed development projects.
Economic and Community Development
• Leads and advances the Town’s economic development strategy and business development initiatives.
• Develops and maintains relationships with business leaders, developers, regional organizations, and state agencies.
• Identifies opportunities for commercial and industrial development, redevelopment, and tax base diversification.
• Pursues grants and other funding opportunities related to planning, infrastructure, transportation, housing, recreation, and economic development.
Building Division Oversight
• Oversees permitting, inspections, code enforcement, and related regulatory activities.
• Supports Building Division staff in addressing complex code interpretation and enforcement matters.
• Ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Public Relations and Customer Service
• Responds to inquiries from residents, businesses, developers, consultants, and the public.
• Facilitates meetings regarding development proposals and planning initiatives.
• Represents the Town at public meetings, hearings, workshops, and professional organizations.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor’s degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, economic development, community development, engineering, architecture, business administration, or a related field required.
• Master’s degree in planning, public administration, economic development, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience in municipal planning, community development, economic development, land use administration, building administration, or related governmental management experience, including supervisory and administrative responsibilities.
• Experience supervising planning, permitting, building inspection, or development review operations preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
CERTIFICATION/LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
• Valid driver’s license or other reliable means of transportation required.
• AICP certification preferred.
• ICC certification, economic development certification, or related professional certifications preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
• Comprehensive knowledge of municipal planning, zoning administration, land use regulation, economic development, and growth management.
• Knowledge of municipal budgeting, capital planning, grant administration, and organizational management.
• Knowledge of building permitting, inspection, and code enforcement practices.
• Ability to interpret engineering plans, zoning regulations, development plans, and technical reports.
• Ability to analyze complex planning, development, infrastructure, and regulatory issues and develop practical solutions.
• Ability to effectively supervise, mentor, motivate, and evaluate employees.
• Excellent verbal, written, organizational, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong project management, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, permitting software, GIS systems, and related municipal technologies.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES:
May be exposed to cleaning fluids, photocopier toner, printer cartridges, dirt, dust, automobile fuel and lubricants, communicable diseases, and hazardous materials associated with construction and development sites.
SELECTION PROCESS/APPOINTMENT:
May be required to participate in oral interviews, professional background investigation, driving record check, criminal history check, and other evaluations as determined necessary by the Town. Town Manager appoints.